_(620x592)_(620x592).jpg)
In Cross Country, there are always two races within one. You have the individual race and the team race. For the individual race, there are many individuals that can step to the challenge in the 2016 season. However, there are some key runners returning from last season that should definitely be at the head of the pack. Conroe Oak Ridge's Theo Goff returns fro his senior season after individually qualifying for NXN and having a strong track season. Austin Westlake's Matthew Kearney was one of the nation's top sophomores last season tearing up course after course, week after week. Ababu Mohamed of Houston Bellaire is a two time individual State meet qualifier and PRed last year with a 15:23.
As for the team race, whenever the Woodlands is present then they have to be considered for the win. Last season, they did not run their top five in this meet, so it'll be a wait and see this year to see if they do this year. Nevertheless, their 8-14 runners placed second behind thier top seven in several varsity races last year season, so they can not be counted out. Conroe Oak Ridge qualified for State in the 6A race last year and they return their strong squad. Cedar Park is also a program that must always be considered to be front runners.