Alena Ellsworth is one of the top 400m in the state, look for her to battle with fellow 400m stars this weekend. Photo by Chris Huch.
If for whatever reason you can't make the girls 1600m or just don't like distance races, the girls 400m is a close second best race to watch. It features the who's who in the 400m from around the state. There are six athletes who all stand a shot at break 56 in the field on Saturday. Having each other to hold them accountable, it is entirely possible to see four or five of them slip under that time.
It is hard not to tab standout freshman Anna Foreman as the favorite. Having run 55.90 for the fastest time in the state last week right after a 4x100m, she looked very fit. Running out of the favored lane though is three time state champ and Arizona legend Jasmine Stauffacher-Gray. Jasmine watched Anna's light out performance at AMDG Invite but didn't let it get to her head. “I always say trust your training and trust your coaches," Jasmine explained. She also indicated that she likes to focus on her goals and take care of what she can instead of worry about others. Anna is not the only top tier freshman that Jasmine is going to have to fend off this week. Liberty's Asiah Fields is also ranked among the state leaders, and that's just half of the top 400m girls in the field.
Coach Monty told several weeks ago that Alena Ellsworth was in really good shape. If anyone would know about athletes being in shape it is an experienced like him. Rumors have it she soloed a 57 400m in practice a few weeks ago. Alena has only been working hard since. Another athlete who looks to be fit is Youngker's Courtnee Oglesly. Along with out of state-er Kamryn Hart they should challenge the top division 1 stars.
In the short sprints, Poly HS out of California should dominate the 200m. LaShira Tremble, Sasha Jarrett, and Jasmine hope to break them up though it will be a tall order. The 100 is also heavy on out of state talent. Alexis Center is Arizona's best hope for a top finish. Clarissa Maxey (NV), and Shayna Yon (CO) are also top contenders.
Heat sheets, schedules and more information can be viewed here.