Can Dons challenge Darts?

The answer is a definite maybe — whether the Davis girls track and field team can run its consecutive state title streak to four.

The three-time defending champions have a legitimate shot to win, but a talented Spanish Fork team could end the Darts' dynasty this weekend.

A month ago, Dons coach Dave Boyack said Davis was the team to beat. With the UHSAA Track and Field Championship set for Friday and Saturday at BYU, Boyack stands by his prediction.

"I do, just because they've won it three straight times," he said.

But Boyack agrees his team has a decent chance for victory, especially since Spanish Fork has beaten Davis twice this season. Natalie and Nachelle Stewart will be the focal point for the Dons' attack and perhaps the gold winners in the 100-, 200- and 800-meter runs.

Davis star Candace Eddy and Nachelle Stewart will have their highly anticipated showdown in the 800m, which should be the highlight of the meet.

Bingham, Riverton, Timpanogos and Fremont can all score points, but it appears Davis and Spanish Fork will battle for the 5A title.

Defending 4A champion Orem will go as far as star Mindy Robins can carry them. The hurdler is fresh off an outstanding performance at the Davis Invitational, and her coaches believe she'll continue that charge. Robins is the favorite to win the 100m and 300m hurdles. With a great supporting cast, Orem is the hands-down favorite in 4A.

Granger's Maria Halton is also running at her best, after dominating the Region 6 championship. State champion distance runner Sarah Edwards should keep Woods Cross in contention along with sprinter Brittany Harris. East, Mountain Crest and Springville also have teams that can score points in bunches.

Judge Memorial is favored to repeat as 3A champion, but it may not come as easy as last year's 15-point victory. Anchored by strong distance runners Sam McMillan, Hailey Knettles and thrower Mele Vaisima, Judge will have to fight off Ogden and Cedar City.

In Class 2A, the champion should emerge from Millard, Manti or North Summit.

Class 1A contenders start with Rich and Saint Joseph's, but Milford and Panguitch could also cause chaos at the top.

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E-mail: tpeterson@desnews.com