Mason Phillips

Mason Phillips' career has seen an uptick since arriving at the University of Sioux Falls.

Adam Maal, a face likely to soon be a bit more familiar on Colorado cross country circuits, took third at Saturday's Liberty Point 5K in Pueblo. Colorado Track XC file photo by Alan Versaw.

Sam Hopfe helped Woodland Park to a team title in Salida on Saturday with an individual title of his own. Colorado Track XC file photo by Alan Versaw.

Machebeuf's Ben Espinola went straight to the front of the 3A 3200 pack with a 9:56.11 last night. Colorado Track XC file photo by Alan Versaw.

Most of the guys in the field probably didn't realize they were getting pre-race instructions from one of the all-time best steeplers in Colorado history. All photos by Alan Versaw

Ben Butler, winner of this year's 3A boys state title and best time of the season by a 3A runner, heads up the 3A all-state team. 

Peak to Peak has been a fixture at state for several years running, but it's not a foregone conclusion this year. Isaac Ruble will strive to keep the streak alive. Photo by Alan Versaw.

CeAnn Udovich's second-place finish at Castle View warranted a few second glances. Photo by Alan Versaw.

Running like a seasoned veteran, St. Mary's freshman Hannah McReavy bided her time early and came up big late for a fifth-place finish at the Pueblo Central Inviational. Photo by Alan Versaw.

Mason Phillips had to fight off Brush's Erik Barfuss for almost the entire race distance en route to taking the 2A/3A boys individual title. Photo by Ashley Green.

It's a year of transition for Peak to Peak, but Calvin Riss should be a measure of stability for the Pumas. Photo by Paul Jaeger.

Cerake Geberkidane crosses the finish mats just a little over 15-flat at Tuesday's DPS meet. Photo by Lyle Knudson.

Platte Canyon's Jacob Benson is the top returning finisher from last year's 3A state cross country race. Photo by Paul Jaeger.