State's top runners quickly emerging

Following this Saturday's Wasatch Rendezvous at the Cottonwood Complex, the 2006 high school cross country season heads into the homestretch, with just two weeks left before region championships help determine entrants to this year's state finals.

Already this fall, a number returning stars have made their marks, while a group of newcomers has also been impressive. Here's a look at some of this year's outstanding prep harriers by classification:

5A BOYS

Davis senior Jared Ward and Skyline junior Stephen Clark are the top two 5A runners at this point, with Viewmont senior Kyle McKenna among the top 10 as well. Other 5A boys who should be factors in the race for individual honors include Riverton's Macy Butterfield and Trevor Sharp, Ryan Stewart of Alta, Nate Jewkes of Bingham, Davis' Spencer Anderson, and Coulson Goodwin of Mountain View. Weber's Stuart Roskelley, who placed ninth in 5A last year, and Lone Peak's Jordan Hughes should also be factors.

4A BOYS

Justin Hedin of Mountain Crest, third a year ago in 4A, leads that classification. He's had top six finishes in both of the large invitationals already this fall, including a fourth at Murray. Lehi senior Chris Dorton and Provo's Adam Smith, both top 10 finishers at state last year, are back as well, and Timpview looks strong with returners Nathan Fletcher, Michael Devonas and Krys Gardner. Also looking good this season have been Spencer Gardner of Springville, Neil Ferrin and Kevin Dickey of Mountain Crest, and Orem's Bryan Willoughby.

3A BOYS

Judge Memorial's Luke Puskedra, a junior, has been the top local performer in boys' 3A and in state so far. He won last week's Murray Invitational and was second at the BYU Autumn Classic on Sept. 9 to Richard Medina of Grand Junction, Colo. Puskedra placed ninth in 3A state a year ago and was actually the fifth runner on the Bulldogs' state championship team. But with Andrew Hirning, Jason Heckle and Nick Gaitan all graduated, he has emerged as not only Judge Memorial's top runner but one of the best in the state.

He will be challenged by Park City's Prescott McCarthy and Cedar's John Hart, the top two finishers at state last year. Canyon View's Brandon Doolin, Jim Drake of Logan, Cedar's Clinton Rhoton, Hurricane's Carl Wilcock, Paul Goodrich of Carbon and Chris Brower of Bear River are others who should challenge in 3A.

2A, 1A BOYS