The talent in the girls' 1600 meter/mile has stepped up to the next level in the practically a year's time. The emergence of some young talent, couple with a number of upperclassmen showing big improvements has made the event one of the deepest and most top-heavy events in the state.
The reigning state champion in AAA from outdoors is Taryn Parks of Greencastle-Antrim, who went 4:45.81 last year to run away with the state title and clock one of the fastest times in national history by a ninth grader. Parks has tremendous talent and will look for another big spring. She was third at indoor states in the mile.
Marlee Starliper of Northern has turned into the most exciting distance runner in the state since taking third at outdoor states in the 1600 meters last spring. After rolling to a state title in XC, the sophomore went on to win the mile at indoor states in 4:43.49, the third fastest time in state history indoors. She'll look to add her first career outdoor track state title this spri...
