Box Elder, Woods Cross favored in Region 5 track

Most track and field coaches from around Region 5 are summing up the title race in two words: wide open.

At least that seems to be the most common phrase coaches are using to characterize the competition in this northern Utah region.

Among the favorites are the defending Class 4A champion Box Elder boys. The Bees bring back another deep team despite having lost 18 seniors from last year's squad.

"Box Elder is always the favorite to win," said Mountain Crest head coach Anthony Stewart.

The closest challenger to the Bees should be Woods Cross. The Wildcats are very strong in the distance events but are somewhat concerned with their young group of sprinters. The Wildcats feel that the league is up for grabs but aren't exactly sure how things will play out.

"It's wide open," said Woods Cross coach Sam Wood. "We could finish anywhere from first to fifth."

No matter who the favorite is, it seems likely that any number of teams (Bonneville and Mountain Crest) could contend for the region title. The Lakers will be one of the most improved teams in the region.

Head coach Terry Pacheco has assembled a team that is strong in every event except the distance runs. The team is also buying into the idea that it will take a complete effort for it to win the region.

Bonneville looks like it could be one of the most balanced teams as well. Mountain Crest is looking to build around star runner Justin Hedin. He's the defending 4A champion in the 800 meters, and coaches say that they need more competitors like him. Finding quality depth throughout the rest of the team is all that separates the Mustangs from the best teams in the region.

Bountiful, Roy and Sky View are small in numbers, but they do have some of the best athletes in the state. Surprisingly, Bountiful won the region last year. This season, the Braves will rely heavily on Jake Magalei. The senior should dominate in several events, including the hurdles, sprints and javelin.

Roy's Daniel Elgaaen is one of the top long jumpers in 4A; he's also versatile, running sprints and hurdles.

The Sky View boys have hit hard times lately. A lack of interest from the student body has hurt the program this season.

In contrast, the Sky View girls team could be very good. Senior Brittany Chadwick will lead the way for the Bobcats. They are the defending region champions.