Click here to jump to Oscar’s mention.
The last of our state-ranked teams, South is led by Matthew Motherway, who has run well this season and is looking at a top 20 finish. South’s biggest issue is the large gap between Motherway and the rest of their varsity, which unfortunately sets them up for some high scoring numbers after he finishes. If those guys can keep it a little closer, it’s very possible for them to climb up to the fifth spot.
The individual race should be a fun one, with several runners having run statement races during the season, which should have them in consideration for the win. That said, Ethan Fischer is probably the guy to beat overall. He was awesome at this meet last year, and his win at a hilly Thetford course has him looking tough to beat. If anyone is going to take him down, it’s Sully Sturtz, who dipped under 15:00 at the Moonlight Madness race and has been one of the best runners in New England for three years.
The Pinkerton crew shouldn’t be counted out. Mailloux’s win at Nashua North saw him run away from Fischer over the final K of the race. D’Amelio has been Pinkerton’s top runner multiple times, and he has been in the top 10 of all the invitationals this season. Robie seemed to find a new gear this past weekend at CMI, running in the 15:40s and only losing to the nationally-ranked Mazzeo brothers from Pennsylvania. Don’t forget about Concord’s Josiah Conley; he’s flown under the radar a bit this fall, but when he’s on, he’s one of the best out there. Fitzgerald should also find himself in with all these guys, and on the right day, he’s got the speed to take down any of the guys mentioned.
