Class AA Girls
The biggest name in Kentucky High School Track and XC lives in Class AA and that name is Gabby Karas. I have had the pleasure to watch Gabby compete for literally all of her High School career and seeing her take records down as though it were just another Saturday has been something to behold. While I’m sure her day at the State Meet in track last season was not exactly how she planned, I think it serves as a reminder that these athletes are still just kids. They are not robots, and even the great ones are allowed to have a bad day every once in a while. I think this season for Gabby serves as something of a turning point in her career. She can no longer technically be labeled as an “underclassman” (despite having many years experience already) and she has now tasted defeat on a relatively large stage. Michaela Reinhart, a very talented sophomore in her own right, has lived in the shadow of Karas for some time and has finally claimed a state championship of her own in the 3200m last track season. The competition between these two athletes this year will be something to keep and eye on. Personally, I hope they both are battling one another in the 17s and we see some great races.