We're entering a new era in New York cross country. Only three teams in the State have a fifth-position runner over the 100 Speed Rating benchmark. Two of the Nation's best teams, Saratoga and Manlius, are both in rebuilding years, and the perennial depth of Section 2 is one of the only things that is lasting out. Still, that level of parity brings some of the most unpredictable, and exciting head-to-head racing the state has seen. Races are no longer predetermined before they happen, and it only makes race day more exciting.
There are two teams that are nationally relevant, and both saw big performances over the weekend. Bethlehem used their compression to take the win at Bowdoin, while Shenendehowa ran through the rain to win McQuaid. Neither team has more than two seniors in their Top 7, and yet, due to the qualification standards for the New York State Meet, only one of them will be able to vie for that State Title over the next two years. Such is life in the Empire State.
Outside of Class A, there are plenty of good races to come. Class B has a handful of teams vying for that Number 1 spot. Class C is as strong as ever, and Class D continues to make up most of the Upstate school districts.
Check out the full rankings below.