If you enjoy mile races, then you are going to feel like it's distance racing heaven with 24 races on tap. The weather will make it equally delightful with climes in the lower 70s. The 4th annual Magis Miles will welcome the return of girls defending champion sophomore Katelynne Hart of Glenbard West and standout boys performer senior Dylan Jacobs of Sandburg. They along with a fleet of other outstanding distance runners in the state of Illinois will not disappoint.
Girls-
The aforementioned Hart comes into this affair with an unblemished record after passing every test and challenge imaginable. In Hart's defense, the only way to race is to have the mindset of crushing her opponents immediately. It is nothing personal for the super sophomore with a sweet smile off of the track. What can we expect from a rematch with fellow running darling Enyaeva Michelin? Will the Evanston senior deploy a different tactic other than laying off of the aggressor Hart? We will have to wait and see. One thing for certain is the US leaderboard is going to be shaken up considerably. Both will race in the Cara Elite Women's Mile with collegians and professionals. Look for Northwestern U's Sarah Nicholson and Kelly O'Brien to challenge. O'Brien won this race two years ago as a senior for Palatine. Also in the field is emerging star freshman Marianne Mihas of Chicago Latin. She is coming off of a win in the 1A girls 1600 several weeks ago.
Boys-
The boy's field is not as clear-cut as the girls. There are a number of names who could emerge as stars within several sections. One is Thomas Shilgalis of Naperville Central. Shilgalis continues to impress this season. He earned all-state honors in the 1600 last weekend at the state meet and then lights up the track with a 1:51.81 800- good for the best in Illinois. Even with a 5-hour travel day back to Chicago don't be surprised if he runs under 4:10. The main man, of course, is Dyls Jacobs as we mentioned before. His take no prisoner approach is going to be needed as he is entered in the elite men's field. If he can survive we may see something very special.