5 Things to Look for from Ames-area Runners at the 2024 State Cross Country Meet

A look at what to expect from Ames-area runners at the 2024 state cross country meet.

Some of the top Ames-area runners will be competing at the 2024 state cross country meet. Here are five things to look for from them:

1. Strong performances from Ames High

Ames High has a strong tradition of success in cross country, and this year's team is no exception. The Little Cyclones are led by senior Jack McDermott, who is one of the top runners in the state. McDermott finished third at the state meet last year, and he will be looking to improve on that finish this year.

In addition to McDermott, Ames High has a number of other talented runners who could make an impact at the state meet. Junior Evan Bishop is a rising star who finished 12th at the state meet last year. Senior Ben Gustafson is another strong runner who could be a factor in the race.

2. A breakout performance from Ballard's Lily Campbell

Lily Campbell is one of the most talented young runners in the Ames area. The Ballard sophomore finished 10th at the state meet last year, and she is poised for a breakout performance this year. Campbell has been running well all season, and she will be one to watch at the state meet.

Campbell is not the only Ballard runner who could make an impact at the state meet. Junior Anna Hostetler is another talented runner who could be a factor in the race.

3. A top-five finish from Nevada's boys team

The Nevada boys cross country team is one of the top teams in the state. The Cubs are led by senior Aidan Ramsey, who is one of the top runners in the state. Ramsey finished sixth at the state meet last year, and he will be looking to improve on that finish this year.

In addition to Ramsey, Nevada has a number of other talented runners who could make an impact at the state meet. Junior Gavin Henry is a rising star who finished 14th at the state meet last year. Senior Jack Wood is another strong runner who could be a factor in the race.

4. A strong showing from Gilbert's girls team

The Gilbert girls cross country team is one of the top teams in the state. The Tigers are led by senior Anna Hostetler, who is one of the top runners in the state. Hostetler finished fifth at the state meet last year, and she will be looking to improve on that finish this year.

In addition to Hostetler, Gilbert has a number of other talented runners who could make an impact at the state meet. Junior Grace McDermott is a rising star who finished 11th at the state meet last year. Senior Emma Wood is another strong runner who could be a factor in the race.

5. A surprise performance from an unexpected source

Every year, there is at least one runner who comes out of nowhere to surprise everyone at the state meet. This year, that runner could be from the Ames area. There are a number of talented runners in the area who could make a name for themselves at the state meet.

The 2024 state cross country meet will be held on Saturday, October 26, at the Lakeside Municipal Golf Course in Fort Dodge. The meet will start at 10:00 AM.