Runners to watch in final month of season

The final month of the Oklahoma high school cross country season has arrived.

Some of the returning stars from last year have continued to flourish, while others made a name for themselves during the first few meets of the season.

Regionals are just around the corner and will be held Oct. 23. The state races are set for Oct. 30 at Edmond Santa Fe.

Here are 10 local runners to watch for the remainder of the season.

Girls

Liesel Kehoe, So., Edmond North: She’s been the biggest surprise of the season. After placing 60th at last year’s state meet, Kehoe has been one of the state’s top runners and will be a serious title contender behind Broken Arrow senior and two-time defending Class 6A champion Payton Hinkle.

Erika Pena, Sr., Noble: She led Noble to a victory at the Class 5A prestate meet at Edmond Santa Fe on Sept. 25. Pena completed the 5-kilometer run in 20 minutes, 54 seconds, placing fifth.

Haley Smith, Sr., Community Christian: She had a strong performance at the Class 4A pre-state meet, winning the 2-mile race with a time of 12:30.56.

Avery Stanley, Sr., Yukon: She’s a seasoned veteran and will try to end her high school career with another solid showing at the Class 6A state meet.

Kaylie Washko, Sr., Oklahoma Christian Academy: She won the Class 3A pre-state race. Washko finished the 2-mile run in 12:14.49.

Boys

Josh Cherry, Jr., Edmond MemoriHe has consistently been breaking the 16-minute mark during his 5-kilometer races and is one of the favorites to win the Class 6A state title.

Dade Humes, So., Piedmont: Humes and senior Tanner Bailey have been the main forces behind another outstanding season for the Wildcats, who will try to defend their Class 5A state championship.

Riley Randall, Jr., Meeker: The only runner from Meeker to ever win a state championnship, Randall will look to defend his Class 3A crown later this month.

Jack Ray, Jr., Oklahoma Christian School: With Ray and fellow junior Ethan Stovall leading the team, OCS will attempt to claim its second c onsecutive Class 4A state championship.

Gilbert Velez, Sr., Deer Creek: After placing second at last year’s Class 6A state meet, Velez will try to get over the hump and capture his first championship.