2026 CYUP Misfits Invite Presented By TrackSmith Preview

TICKETS

HEAT SHEETS

Time Schedule

Saturday, January 17, 2026

Times are tentative. Event order will not change. Girls precede boys where applicable. Schedule is about 95-99% accurate. Times will be finalized once registration closes. 

RUNNING EVENTS

FIELD EVENTS

Long Jump - 8:00 AM

Shot Put - 8:00 AM

Pole Vault - 8:00 AM

Triple Jump - Approx. 12:30 PM

High Jump 

The CYUP Misfits Invite Presented by Tracksmith is set to bring the nation’s top middle school and high school distance and sprint talent to one of the most competitive stages in the Midwest. Known for its deep fields, record-breaking performances, and star-studded lineup, the Misfits Invite has become a must-attend event for athletes looking to test themselves against the best. From elite youth milers to high school distance standouts, sprinters, and field event specialists, this meet promises fast times, thrilling competition, and unforgettable performances. Presented by Tracksmith, the event continues to build on its reputation as a premier showcase for the next generation of track and field stars.

60H

High School Boys

Arguably the premier sprint event at the Misfits Invite, the boys 60m hurdles will showcase elite talent from across the region. The narrow favorite is Niyer Clayborn of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI), but this race is wide open. Clayborn is the Wisconsin state champion in the 110m hurdles with a blistering PR of 13.83, and his 8.12 mark in the 60mH firmly places him among the top contenders. Zion Morrison of Windy City Hammers (IL) owns the fastest entered time at 7.98, though his PR sits at 8.14. His outdoor best of 13.97 in the 110m hurdles is impressive, and his raw explosiveness will be a major factor. Morrison also boasts elite sprint credentials, including returning PRs of 10.43 (4.0 wind) in the 100 and 21.23 in the 200. However, Janardie Turner of Rockford Jefferson (IL) is the top Illinois returner in the 60mH and should be right alongside Morrison and Clayborn. His 8.09 is the best mark in the field, making him one of the top names to watch. Also keep an eye on Ben Shoettle of Glenbard West (IL), who is riding a hot streak. Shoettle recently dropped an outstanding 8.16 at the AAU Northern Indoor Nationals. While his outdoor 110mH PR of 14.60 trails some of the favorites, his recent surge puts him squarely in the win conversation.

High School Girls

Unlike the boys’ race, the girls 60m hurdles has a clear favorite in Rebekah Garrett of North Canyon (AZ). A two-time Arizona state champion in the 100m hurdles, Garrett owns a remarkable PR of 13.28. Her 8.39 in the 60mH puts her well ahead of the rest of the field this weekend, and she should control this race. Jordan Hamb of Windy City Hammers (IL) headlines the Illinois contingent. She is one of only two athletes in the field with a sub-14 100mH PR, running 13.96 at an AAU national qualifier. Hamb opened her season with an impressive 8.63 in the 60mH and traditionally performs well at Misfits, making her a strong podium threat. Right alongside her will be Adriana Swanson of Speed U Track Club (IN). Swanson holds the superior 100mH PR at 13.83, though her 8.73 in the 60mH trails Hamb slightly. Both athletes are returning state champions, setting up a compelling battle for second place.

60m

4th–6th Grade Boys

Amere Collier of Gately Park Athletic Club (IL) enters as the leader with a PR of 8.25. After finishing second at the Morolake Akinosun Invite last weekend, he’ll be seeking his first 60m win of the season. Miles Thoma of Zephyrs Track Club (IL) brings in a PR of 8.44 after a fourth-place finish at the same meet. Ayrin Sanders of Legacy Runners Athletic Club (IL) was third at the AAU Northern Indoor Nationals and will be aiming for another podium finish. Shah Farrakhan of Gately Park Athletic Club (IL), who finished second in his age group at the AAU Northern Indoor Nationals, is another strong top-three contender.

4th–6th Grade Girls

Kennedi Williamson of Legacy Runners Athletic Club (IL) has been dominant indoors, owning a PR of 8.15. She claimed major victories at both the AAU Northern Indoor Nationals and the Purple Smoke Holiday Invite and will look to continue that momentum. Londyn Hill of Gary Steelers (IN) ran 8.63 to place fourth at the AAU Northern Indoor Nationals and should be in the hunt for second. Jaelyn Brown of Gately Park Athletic Club (IL) won her age group at the AAU Northern Indoor Nationals and will look to carry that success into this meet despite competing against older athletes. Madison Peden of Legacy Runners Athletic Club (IL) has two wins this season and will challenge for a podium finish.

7th–8th Grade Boys

Mark Clayton of Zephyrs Track Club (IL) has been nearly unbeatable this season, suffering just one loss. He owns a PR of 7.29 and enters as the clear favorite. Clayton was the IESA 4A State runner-up in the 100m last year and has the speed to separate himself from the field. Breccan Rietow of Wings of Glory (WI) holds the second-best PR in the field at 7.43 and should be firmly in contention for second place. George Anello of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI) finished fourth at the Morolake Akinosun Invite last weekend and will be looking to push into the top three.

7th–8th Grade Girls

Gabrielle McKinney of The Solo Elite Track Club (IL) has been outstanding this indoor season, already running 7.77 as an eighth grader. She placed fifth in the high school division at the Morolake Akinosun Invite and enters as a near lock for the win. Riley Young of Legacy Runners Athletic Club (IL) captured the AAU Northern Indoor Nationals title in 7.88 and is the most likely challenger to McKinney. Young was third at the IESA 4A State Meet last year in the 100m. Nia Branham of Gately Park Athletic Club (IL) also claimed a national title at AAU Northern Indoor Nationals, running 8.10. She was the IESA 4A state champion in both the 200m and 400m last year. Micah Lewis of Elgin Sharks Track Club (IL) rounds out the contenders after finishing sixth at the Morolake Akinosun Invite and posting a 12.84 in the 100m last summer.

High School Boys

Kameran Warren of TakeOff Track Club (GA) travels north as the clear class of the field. He owns a stunning 6.84 PR in the 60m, set just a week ago, and should light up the Gately Center. His outdoor PRs of 10.39 and 21.12, along with a 21.66 season best in the 200, suggest another big performance is coming. Leading the chase pack is Joe Owusu of Aurora Flyers (IL), who broke out last spring with PRs of 10.60 and 21.73 in the 100 and 200. His 6.90 60m PR puts him in strong position for second, though execution will be key. Kevion Dickerson of Wings of Glory (WI) ran 6.98 in December and has shown consistent form. Benjamin Dean of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI) has hovered in the low 7s all indoor season, but his 10.83 100m PR suggests he could dip under the seven-second barrier. Taurean Rawlins of TakeOff Track Club (GA) has already run 6.99 and rounds out a very deep field.

High School Girls

The girls 60m dash sets up for an electric three-way showdown. Kyenret Rinkam of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI) enters as the narrow favorite after posting a 7.44 season best. Last spring, she ran 11.65 and 23.49 in the 100 and 200, establishing herself as one of the region’s elite sprinters. She’ll be challenged by Marley Scroggins of Codeblack Elite Track Club (CA), one of the top sprinters in the country. Scroggins owns PRs of 11.59 and 23.59 and has a 7.46 60m mark from last season. With no 300m on her schedule, expect a big opener. Completing the trio is Nadia Ford of Fort Wayne Fire TC (IN), the reigning Indiana state champion in both the 100 and 200. Her PRs of 11.65 and 23.83, along with a 7.46 in the 60, put her right on par with Rinkam and Scroggins. Also in the mix is Olivia Kirk of Codeblack Elite Track Club (CA), whose outdoor PRs of 11.63 and 23.74 suggest she belongs with the leaders. Kaylah Parks of Randle (TX), who ran 7.61 as a freshman, returns to Illinois for a homecoming appearance and could factor into the final.

600m

4th–6th Grade Boys

Bryce Geiger of Gately Park Athletic Club (IL) enters as the favorite after winning the 800m at the AAU Northern Indoor Nationals. He was third at the AAU Junior Olympics last summer and brings championship experience to this field. Wesley Murray of Mt. Zion (IL) enjoyed a strong cross country season, highlighted by a 12:08 two-mile, and makes his track debut here. Colton James of House of Champions (MI), just a third grader, has already run 2:42 in the 800 and could contend for second.

4th–6th Grade Girls

Arja Dhanawade of Gately Park Athletic Club (IL) captured the AAU Northern Indoor Nationals title with a new PR of 2:36.51. She’ll be challenged by Alaya Lewis-Curtis of The Solo Elite Track Club (IL), who owns a 2:37.02 PR and has won every 800m she’s raced this season. Oakley Davis of HP Distance (IN) finished second at the KYA Youth Indoor Championships in 2:39.29 and is firmly in contention. Adelyn Etherton of Midwest Milers (IL) ran 2:40.96 in her indoor debut last weekend and continues to trend upward.

7th–8th Grade Boys

Alex Lynch of Chicago Trailblazers (IL) will make his first indoor appearance of the season here. He finished 18th at last year’s IESA 1A State Meet in the 800m and enters as a top seed alongside his teammate Dylan Wood. While Lynch leads the entries, Wood may be the stronger of the duo after placing seventh at the IESA 1A State Meet in the 800m last spring. Seeds, however, can be deceiving. Ari Thompkins of Gately Park Athletic Club (IL) is the true favorite after running 2:06 last summer. Thompkins also finished eighth at the AAU Junior Olympics in the 800m and should separate himself from the field here. Ryder Ethridge of Manhattan (IL) will be in contention for a top-three finish. He has already run 2:25 indoors this season and was the IHSA 4A State runner-up in cross country.

7th–8th Grade Girls

This race sets up as a compelling battle between speed and endurance. Nia Branham of Gately Park Athletic Club (IL) enters as the top seed with PRs of 57.15 in the 400m and 2:29.31 in the 800m. She claimed the 800m title at the Morolake Akinosun Invite last week and was the IESA 4A State Champion and All-American in the 400m last year. Representing the endurance side is Hazel Atkins of Shelby County Pacers (IL), a two-time IESA cross country state champion and the defending IESA 3A 800m champion. Her 2:22 PR proves she has the speed to contend for the win. Janelle Jones of House of Champions (MI) may ultimately be the favorite. She ran 2:19 in the 800m last summer to earn All-American honors and owns a blazing 4:41.52 PR in the 1500m. Ava Wetenkamp of Manitowoc Wilson (WI) will also factor into the podium mix with PRs of 2:31.11 in the 800m and 5:24.80 in the 1600m. She was runner-up at last year’s Wisconsin Middle School State Meet.

High School Boys

The high school boys 600m will feature a blend of sprint powerhouses and distance standouts. Caleb Winders of HP Distance (IN) is the heavy favorite and should secure a convincing win. Last year, Winders set the fastest 800m in American history for the junior class, running a stunning 1:46. He won New Balance Nationals in the 800m despite not competing in the fast heat. The North Carolina commit owns the fastest time in the field with a 1:18.48 from last indoor season and is poised to lower that mark this weekend. He’ll face stiff competition from Gabriel Olson of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI) and Owen Horeni of Yorkville (IL). Olson is an elite Milwaukee-area sprinter testing his range in the 600m. His 47.88 400m PR earned him runner-up honors at the Wisconsin State Meet last spring, and his explosiveness, backed by PRs of 10.50 in the 100 and 21.60 in the 200, makes him a major threat. Horeni brings championship-level endurance, having finished runner-up at the IHSA State Meet in the 800m with a PR of 1:51.87. He also tied for second in the 3-mile with a remarkable 14:07. His blend of aerobic strength and sprint ability sets him up for a standout performance. Caden Cassada of Cornfield Project (IN) and Jay Tally of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI) round out an elite group. Tally owns a 1:51.21 800m PR, the second-fastest in the field, and is the Wisconsin state champion in that event. Cassada ran 1:52.27 at New Balance Nationals and will also contend for a top finish.

High School Girls

The girls 600m features a clear favorite in Ellie Barada of HP Distance (IN). She owns a jaw-dropping 2:03.95 PR, which she used to win Nike Nationals last summer. Barada has opened her season strong with a 2:07 in the 800m and should be in control here.

Her primary challenger will be Addy Abner of TruSpeed Athletics (OH), who opens her season at Misfits. Abner’s 2:07.46 PR places her firmly within striking distance, especially if Barada feels the effects of doubling. One athlete who could shake things up is elite sprinter Lailah Green of Archer (GA). Green owns the fastest 400m PR in the field at an eye-popping 53.81. If she turns this into a true sprint from the gun, she could steal the win. Another sprinter to watch is Sydney Falkowski of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI), who brings a 55.36 PR in the 400m and opened her season with a strong 56.87 at the Akinosun Invite. Expect her to compete with the lead pack throughout.

Mile

4th–6th Grade Boys

Johnny Jazwinski of Tiger Track Club (MI) is, of course, the younger brother of Jessica Jazwinski, a multi-time high school All-American. Johnny is now making a name for himself, having run an impressive 5:15 for the 1600m as a sixth grader. Everett Voyles of Palatine Pack (IL) will challenge Jazwinski for the win. Voyles owns a PR of 5:20.61 for the full mile and has been consistently competitive. Noah Wahls of Palatine Pack (IL) is another name to watch, as he could factor into the top three after running 5:28.04 this past November.

4th–6th Grade Girls

Sophia Stafford of Rock River Runners (WI) enters as the favorite, sporting a 5:11 PR in the 1500m. She placed 24th at last year’s AAU Junior Olympics and will make her season debut here. Elin Yorek of HP Distance (IN) will contend with Stafford for the win. Yorek has already run 5:32 for the mile this indoor season and could easily challenge for the top spot. Oakley Davis of HP Distance (IN) ran 5:21 in the 1500m at the KYA Youth Indoor Championships and will battle for a podium finish. Tessa Mocko of Zephyrs Track Club (IL) will also be a major factor. She finished sixth at the AAU Junior Olympics in the 1500m this past summer with a time of 5:07 and was fifth at the IESA State Meet in cross country, giving her the credentials to challenge for the win.

7th–8th Grade Boys

This race has the potential to steal the show with an absolutely star-studded field. Conrad Schwass of OJ DeJonge (MI) enters as the top seed after running 4:31.15 at Grand Valley State this past weekend. Schwass lost only one meet during the cross country season and has been on a tear over the last six months. He’ll look to continue that momentum here. Lucas Pfoutz of Palatine Pack (IL) will challenge for the win. He owns a 4:44.76 PR in the 1600m from last year’s HOKA Festival of Miles and was the 2025 IESA 4A State Champion in both the 800m and 1600m. Pfoutz is also coming off a third-place finish at the USATF Junior Olympics in cross country. Brantley Blair of HP Distance (IN) enjoyed a dominant cross country season, remaining undefeated until the USATF Junior Olympics. Although he didn’t have his best race at Nationals, he still finished 19th overall. Blair ran 4:34 for the 1600m at Grand Valley State about a month ago and will be competing in his second indoor mile of the year. Bentlee Lawrenz of Dixon Distance (IL) enters with a 4:40.01 PR in the 1600m. He was the IESA 3A State Champion in cross country—where he defeated Pfoutz—and placed fifth at the USATF Junior Olympics. Lawrenz was also the 2025 state runner-up in both the 800m and 1600m and will be seeking a signature win.

7th–8th Grade Girls

This field is absolutely loaded with talent, and several athletes have legitimate winning potential. Madeline Serur of Palatine Pack (IL) had an outstanding 2025, capturing three state championships. She claimed IESA 4A titles in both the 800m and 1600m during track season and won the state championship in cross country. Serur finished an impressive 17th at New Balance Outdoor Nationals, running 5:08 for the full mile, and enters as the favorite. Sterling Howard of HP Distance (IN) enjoyed a strong cross country season, finishing eighth at the USATF Junior Olympics. Last summer, she placed fifth in the 1500m at the same meet with a time of 4:55. Gianna Suvada of Palatine Pack (IL) appears to be in excellent form after running a new PR of 5:19.57 in a FAT time trial two months ago. She also finished 40th at the USATF Junior Olympics despite losing a shoe mid-race and could contend for a top-three finish here. Chloe Milton of Chicago Trailblazers (IL) was the middle school mile champion at Magis Miles last year, running 5:22.00. She finished fourth at the IESA 2A State Meet in the 1600m, but her most impressive performance may be her 10:27 3000m at NXR Midwest. If she brings that same intensity, Milton could challenge for the win. Brynn Bartkus of Chicago Flyers (IL) was the IESA 1A State Champion this past fall, edging Suvada in that race. She also had a strong 2025 track season, running 5:21.78 in the 1600m, and could factor into the podium.

Open Miles

Something new and exciting this year will be the addition of two open mile sections. Section 1 will feature Nick Willis, a legendary figure in the sport with two Olympic medals in the 1500m—a silver in 2008 and a bronze in 2016. Willis also produced one of the most remarkable streaks in track history, breaking four minutes in the mile for 20 consecutive years from 2003 to 2022. Section 2 will include Olympic champion Matthew Centrowitz, who won the 1500m gold medal at the 2016 Olympics. He also earned world championship medals in the event in 2011 and 2013 and has been posting impressive workouts on social media in recent weeks.

Tracksmith Mile – Boys

The fastest heat of the high school mile has long been the signature event of the Misfits Invite, and this year’s elite field will not disappoint. The top seed belongs to Reed Grotenhuis of Slinger (WI), who enters as the favorite. Grotenhuis owns the fastest mile in the field with a scorching 4:05, which he used to place third in the fastest mile race in Wisconsin state meet history. This will be his season opener, making it intriguing to see how he responds against a deep group of challengers. Among those challengers are Jace Works of Columbus Thorn Running Club (IN) and Canaan Dunham of Pella (IA). Works was primarily an 800m runner until last spring, when he broke out with a 4:11 1600m at New Balance Nationals. His aerobic development continued through cross country, where he dropped his 5k from the mid-15s to an impressive 14:57, helping his team qualify for Nike Nationals. He will be a major factor in this race. Dunham is a familiar name to track fans, having produced standout performances since his sophomore year. The versatile Pella standout owns PRs of 1:52 in the 800m, 4:10 in the 1600m, and 8:56 in the 3200m. With the fastest 800m and 3200m PRs in the field, Dunham figures to contend with Grotenhuis and Works for the win. Just behind this trio, Jackson Miller of St. Louis University (MO) and Bobby Jazwinski of Tiger Track Club (MI) will keep the race honest. Miller was the runner-up at last year’s Misfits Invite, while Jazwinski ran 4:11 this past December, making both athletes capable of producing a big performance.

Tracksmith Mile – Girls

This highly anticipated matchup has played out before, but Sunny Weber of Sandwich (IL) versus Annika Swan of Iggy Pack (IL) is never dull. Weber is coming off a historic cross country season, becoming one of only five female runners to break 16 minutes in the three mile en route to the IHSA 1A state title. She followed that up on the track by running 4:40 at the state meet to break the 2A 1600m state record and capturing the 3200m state championship as well. Swan closed out her track season in equally impressive fashion, winning the 800m and 1600m state titles in the 3A division. She owns PRs of 2:10 and 4:42 in those events and presents a fascinating contrast to Weber. Swan likely holds the edge in raw speed, while Weber’s aerobic strength could shape the race dynamic. If Weber chooses to push the pace early, she may be able to wear Swan down over the final laps. Leading the chase pack will be Charlie Gall of The Runner’s Flat (IA). Gall won her first state title last spring as a freshman in the 1500m with a blazing 4:29, which converts to approximately a 4:48 1600m. She also won the regular heats of the high school mile at Misfits last year in 4:58 and should be primed for a breakthrough in the elite section. Klarke Goranson of Manteno (IL) and Ali Londrigan of Chatham Glenwood (IL) will also make their presence felt. Both athletes own PRs in the low 4:50s and rank among the top milers in Illinois. Expect them to form the group chasing Gall and to post strong times in a fast, competitive race.

300m

4th–6th Grade Boys

Zion James-Harkness of Legacy Runners Athletic Club (IL) enters as the favorite with impressive PRs of 27.96 in the 200m and 1:02.45 in the 400m. He is the athlete many will look to as the likely winner in this field. Jai Johnson of Legacy Runners Athletic Club (IL) will be one of the top challengers. Johnson owns PRs of 27.99 in the 200m and 1:08.77 in the 400m and has suffered just two losses all season. He’ll be looking to add another win here. Bryce Geiger of Gately Park Athletic Club (IL) will aim for a podium finish. With PRs of 30.17 in the 200m and 1:06.45 in the 400m, he has a strong chance to challenge for second place.

4th–6th Grade Girls

Londyn West of Aurora Flyers (IL) comes in as the top seed and clear favorite. Her 1:04.99 PR in the 400m is the fastest in the field and sets her apart. Arja Dhanawade of Gately Park Athletic Club (IL) figures to be West’s primary challenger. She owns a 1:07.21 PR in the 400m, recorded earlier this season. Amira Burnett of Zephyrs Track Club (IL) enters with a 1:09.06 PR in the 400m and will contend for a top-three finish. Jaelyn Brown of Gately Park Athletic Club (IL), who owns a 1:08.86 PR, will also be battling for a podium spot.

7th–8th Grade Boys

Mark Clayton of Zephyrs Track Club (IL) enters as the top seed with a 23.83 PR in the 200m. He was the IESA 4A State Champion in both the 100m and 4x100m last year and brings elite sprint credentials to this race. Right behind him is Breccan Rietow of Wings of Glory (WI), who has looked outstanding this indoor season. Rietow has already run 53.30 in the 400m and could emerge with a massive victory if he converts that strength to the 300. George Anello of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI) has already clocked a blistering 54.12 in the 400m this indoor season, winning the middle school division at the Morolake Akinosun Invite last weekend. He’ll be looking to make it back-to-back wins at Gately. Ari Thompkins of Gately Park Athletic Club (IL) is another athlete to watch. While he is more dangerous in longer events, his strength should allow him to contend for a top-three finish here.

7th–8th Grade Girls

This loaded field has the potential to produce one of the races of the day. Gabrielle McKinney of The Solo Elite Track Club (IL) has been on fire this indoor season, already running 24.90 in the 200m and 57.76 in the 400m. Those electric marks make her the favorite, though the win will not come easily. McKinney finished second in this event last year. Nia Branham of Gately Park Athletic Club (IL) brings a 57.15 PR in the 400m from last summer and finished fifth at the AAU Junior Olympics in that event. She was also third in this race last year and will contend for the win again. Kennedi Williamson of Legacy Runners Athletic Club (IL) also has the credentials to challenge for first place. She owns a 58.61 PR in the 400m and finished third at the AAU Junior Olympics in the 400m and fifth in the 200m last season. Zoei Johnson of Legacy Runners Athletic Club (IL) could also factor into the top three. She has a 1:00.13 PR in the 400m and finished eighth in this event last year.

High School Boys

The boys 300m will feature several elite 200–400 specialists who could throw down some of the best marks in the country. The top seed currently belongs to Braylen Anderson of Aurora Flyers (IL). Anderson made the move up to the 400m last spring and immediately thrived, running a jaw-dropping 47.76—one of the fastest times recorded by an Illinois sophomore last year. He’ll face serious challenges from several high-level out-of-state sprinters, including Amir Vines and Javaryn Love of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI), as well as Kameran Warren of TakeOff Track Club (GA). Vines owns the fastest 400m PR in the field at 47.55, which he ran at the AAU Junior Olympics to place eighth. He also ran 35.15 in the 300m earlier this season to finish third at the Gately Open. Love, who has a 48.65 PR in the 400m, edged Vines at the Gately Open by running 34.78. Kameran Warren is less of a 400m runner, but his elite speed in the short sprints makes him dangerous. Warren owns PRs of 10.39 in the 100m and 21.12 in the 200m, giving him an outside shot at the win if he can maintain that speed through the full 300. Gabriel Olson of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI) split Love and Vines at the Gately Open, running 35.11, and will also be a factor here. Zion Morrison of Windy City Hammers (IL) steps up from the short sprints in this event, and his explosiveness should translate well to a strong performance.

High School Girls

This event is dominated by elite sprinters stepping up in distance to test themselves over 300 meters. Kyenret Rinkam of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI) brings the most eye-catching short sprint credentials, having already run 7.44 in the 60m along with PRs of 11.65 in the 100m and 23.49 in the 200m. She was also a key leg on a 3:44 4x400 relay at the AAU Junior Olympics, showing she can handle longer distances. Rinkam will be challenged by the strength of Lailah Green of Archer (GA), a true 400m powerhouse with a massive 53.81 PR from Nike Nationals last summer. Green also owns a 23.76 PR in the 200m, putting her right on par with Rinkam in pure speed. This sets up a fascinating contrast of styles. Another athlete off to a hot start is Janae Coleman of House of Champions (MI), who has already posted PRs of 39.13 in the 300m and 55.17 in the 400m this season. If she can shave even half a second off her 300m time, she could be right in the win conversation. Avery Bott of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI) and Nadia Ford of Fort Wayne Fire TC (IN) are also athletes to watch. Bott’s 55.79 PR in the 400m keeps her within range of the lead pack, while Ford’s short sprint credentials rival Rinkam’s, making both potential dark horses.

1000m

4th–6th Grade Boys

Bryce Geiger of Gately Park Athletic Club (IL) enters as the favorite. He is coming off wins in both the 400m and 800m at the AAU Northern Indoor Nationals. Last year, Geiger finished third in the 800m and second in the 1500m at the AAU Junior Olympics, underscoring his strength over middle distances. Wesley Murray of Mt. Zion (IL) is coming off an excellent cross country season, highlighted by a 12:08 performance for two miles. He will be making his track debut here and could surprise. Walter Joerres of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI) is seeded well and should be in the mix for a top-three finish.

4th–6th Grade Girls

Londyn West of Aurora Flyers (IL) enters as the clear favorite to take the title. Her 2:27.19 PR in the 800m is the fastest in the field, and she’ll be looking to add another win to her resume. Sophia Stafford of Rock River Runners Club (WI) brings a 2:34.76 PR from her 28th-place finish at last year’s USATF Junior Olympics and should battle for second place. Adelyn Etherton of Midwest Milers (IL) opened her season strongly at the Morolake Akinosun Invite, running 2:40.96 in the 800m, and will also contend for a podium spot.

7th–8th Grade Boys

Lucas Pfoutz of Palatine Pack (IL) enters as the heavy favorite with a 2:05.12 PR in the 800m, by far the fastest mark in the field. The IESA 4A State Champion in both the 800m and 1600m last year, Pfoutz will be doubling back after the mile earlier in the day. The question will be whether he can complete the double with another victory. Bentlee Lawrenz of Dixon Distance (IL) owns a 2:08.96 PR and figures to be Pfoutz’s top challenger. The two have already produced several great battles, and this one should be no different. Jacob Calvario of Geneva North (IL) enters with a 2:16.13 PR in the 800m but is coming off a breakout cross country season that could see him contend with the lead pack.

7th–8th Grade Girls

Delaney Gidd of Chicago Flyers Track Club (IL) enters as the top seed. She owns a 2:20.10 PR in the 800m from last year’s AAU Junior Olympics, where she placed sixth. Gidd also impressed during cross country with a 10:28 3K at NXR Midwest. Making her season debut here, she’ll be looking to start the year with a win. McKenna Beck of Shelby County Pacers (IL) is the other name to watch. She finished eighth at the state cross country meet and will be aiming for a runner-up finish.

High School Boys

Many of the athletes contesting the 600m will double back for the 1000m, creating another stacked field. Caleb Winders of HP Distance (IN) is once again the favorite. This will likely be the first and possibly only time he races the 1000m in high school, and he may take a big swing at the event. Jay Tally of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI) will also be doubling back. He finished second in this race at last year’s Misfits Invite, and while his 2:34 mark leaves room for improvement, his 1:51 PR in the open 800 suggests he could dip well under 2:30. Caden Cassada of Cornfield Project (IN) is another major contender with a 1:52 PR in the 800m. Jace Trevino of HP Distance (IN) brings a similar 1:52 PR and should be right in the mix if he’s on form.

High School Girls

All of the top 800m runners from the 600m return to contest the 1000m. Ellie Barada of HP Distance (IN) is the clear headliner, owning the fastest 800m PR in the field at 2:03.95. She should control the race and could win by a sizable margin. Addy Abner of TruSpeed Athletics (OH) is the primary challenger. Abner ran 2:07.46 last spring and could capitalize if Barada feels the effects of doubling back from the 600m. The battle for third should be tight between Polina Krupsky of Lake Zurich (IL) and Macey Thompson of Lake Central (IN). Krupsky finished third at last year’s IHSA 3A State Meet with a PR of 2:11.51, while Thompson placed seventh at the Indiana State Meet and owns a 2:12.31 PR. With similar credentials, this duel could come down to the final meters.

4x200m

4th–6th Grade Boys

This race looks primed to be dominated by Legacy Runners Athletic Club (IL), led by Jai Johnson and Zion James-Harkness, two of the top individual sprinters in the field. Expect Gately Park Athletic Club (IL) and Saints Track Club (IL) to battle it out for second place.

4th–6th Grade Girls

Gately Park Athletic Club (IL) enters as the clear favorite. They are led by Jaelyn Brown and Arja Dhanawade, two of the best runners in the country for their age group. Saints Track Club (IL) and Legacy Runners Athletic Club (IL) should both be in the mix for second place.

7th–8th Grade Boys

Legacy Runners Athletic Club (IL) is set to dominate this race. With no other teams entered in the field, they will cruise to the win uncontested.

7th–8th Grade Girls

Legacy Runners Athletic Club (IL) fields one of the best relay squads in the country at this level. With star power from Zoei Johnson, Kennedi Williamson, and Riley Young, this is an All-American–caliber lineup. Wings of Glory (WI) is the only other team entered and will finish second.

High School Boys

Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI) enters as the favorite and is absolutely loaded, with Gabriel Olson, Javaryn Love, and Amir Vines all listed on the relay card. It will be difficult to see this squad getting beaten. Elgin Sharks Track Club (IL), led by Oreoluwa Sobodu, will look to secure second place. This relay has already clocked 1:33 this season.

High School Girls

Three teams have the potential to break 1:40, setting the stage for an exciting team battle. Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI) has both its A and B teams seeded at 1:40 and clearly has the depth to make that happen. Kyenret Rinkam alone could nearly pull a relay under the 1:40 barrier, and with additional athletes capable of running sub-25-second legs, both squads are legitimate contenders.

2 Mile

High School Boys

This race should be routine work for Canaan Dunham of Pella (IA). Dunham is coming off a legendary cross country season in which he placed 30th at Nike Cross Nationals and closed the year with a 14:43 5K PR. His 8:56 3200m from last season towers over the field, making him the clear favorite. There’s only a slim chance Dunham is challenged, but if anyone can do it, it’s Cameron Collier of Midtown (GA). Collier owns the next-fastest 3200 PR in the field at 9:03, though he has only achieved that mark once. He also had an outstanding cross country season, lowering his 5K PR to 14:54 and capturing a state title. If he’s in peak form, he could push Dunham for the win. Reed Grotenhuis of Slinger (WI) will be doubling back after earlier events and enters with a strong 9:05 two-mile PR, putting him firmly in contention for a podium finish. Sean Reith of Providence Pastures Running Club (OH) has already run 9:15 indoors this season and could stick with the lead pack on a good day. Keegan Decker of Liberty (IA) also owns a PR that places him within range of the leaders. Familiarity racing against Dunham could serve him well in this elite field.

High School Girls

An all-star field is set for the girls’ two mile, and it should produce some massive performances. Sunny Weber of Sandwich (IL) is the overwhelming favorite, owning a dominant 9:59 PR—nearly 25 seconds faster than anyone else in the field. After finishing second to Mia Sirois last year, Weber enters this season as the clear frontrunner with no one ahead of her. The battle for second should come down to Kenya Leitch of Columbus City (IN) and Katie Berkshire of Gaylord (MI). Berkshire holds the slight edge on paper with a 10:26 PR and is coming off a stellar cross country season that included an All-American finish at Nike Cross Nationals and a 16:32 5K PR. One of Michigan’s top runners this fall, she’ll be a major factor at Misfits. Leitch owns a 10:30 3200 PR and was among the top finishers at Indiana’s state meet last spring. With both athletes opening their seasons here, expect aggressive racing and fast times. Cece Kramper of Roncalli Catholic (NE) brings a strong 10:47 PR and should stay near the front, while Ali Londrigan of Chatham Glenwood (IL), doubling back from the mile, remains a contender for a high finish. Nia Ortega of Downers Grove South (IL) endured a challenging cross country season, but her 10:41 track PR makes her a dangerous wildcard if she’s in form.

Long Jump

4th–6th Grade Boys

Miles Thoma of Zephyrs Track Club (IL) enters as the clear favorite. The reigning AAU Northern Indoor Nationals champion and last year’s Misfits winner, Thoma owns a massive 15’5” PR—over a foot better than the rest of the field. Lance Overton of Gately Park Athletic Club (IL) claimed the AAU Northern Indoor Nationals title earlier this season in his lone competition so far, while Jai Johnson of Legacy Runners Athletic Club (IL) finished second to Overton at that meet. Johnson already has three wins this season and should contend for another podium finish.

4th–6th Grade Girls

Sellenna Bush of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI) enters as the favorite with a field-leading PR of 15’2.25”. She placed 12th at last year’s AAU Junior Olympics and has the edge on paper. Kennedy Hall of Gately Park Athletic Club (IL) has already jumped 13’8.75” this season and will challenge for second, along with Jershawnti Walton of Legacy Runners Athletic Club (IL), who owns a 13’7.75” PR.

7th–8th Grade Boys

Donovan Mitchell of Legacy Runners Athletic Club (IL) has been highly impressive in his brief time competing in the long jump. He owns a 17’1.75” PR from this season and is coming off a win at the ONU New Year Youth Open. Ahmir Wilson of Elgin Sharks Track Club (IL) was the 12-year-old champion at the AAU Northern Indoor Nationals and has won two of his three competitions this year. Braylon Carey of Aurora Flyers Track Club (IL) also has win potential with a 17’0.5” PR and will be hunting his first victory of the season.

7th–8th Grade Girls

Zoei Johnson of Legacy Runners Athletic Club (IL) looks to continue her dominance after already collecting three long jump wins this season. Lerrah Green of Jackrabbit Track Club (GA) may be her toughest challenger, entering with the top PR in the field at 17’0.5” and a strong 11th-place finish at Nike Outdoor Nationals in 2025. Kayla Collier of Gately Park Athletic Club (IL) brings a 16’5” PR and a fifth-place finish at the IESA State Meet, positioning her well for a top-three result.

High School Boys

The reigning Wisconsin state champion arrives in Chicago ready to make noise. Cole Zielinski of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI) jumped an outstanding 24’5” last spring to claim his first state title as a sophomore. Undefeated all season, Zielinski’s remarkable consistency in the mid-to-high 23s makes him extremely difficult to beat. Only two other athletes in the field have surpassed 23 feet: Malachi Lee of Bradley-Bourbonnais (IL) and Anthony Edison Jr. of Homewood-Flossmoor (IL). Lee nearly cracked 24 feet last season with a 23’11.25” leap and will be a major podium threat. Edison Jr. owns a 23’7.5” PR and, if he finds a clean board, could challenge for the top three.

High School Girls

The girls’ long jump shapes up as a tight battle between Simone Holman of Joliet Catholic Academy (IL) and Olivia Dalson of Neuqua Valley (IL). Holman owns the superior PR at 19’6”, which she used to win the Top Times Championships last winter. However, her typical range sits in the high 17s to low 18s—right where Dalson thrives.

Dalson’s 18’10” PR isn’t quite as far, but her consistency makes her a serious threat. Lena Bruening of Jumper Athletics (IA) also enters with an 18’6” PR and could factor into the podium on a strong day.

Shot Put

7th–8th Grade Mixed

Angel Jimenez of Grayslake (IL) enters as the top seed after throwing 34’0” at the AAU Northern Indoor Nationals, where he finished third. Mercez Ramirez-Navarro of All About Speed (MI) is the second seed and will battle John-Michael Norwood of Windy City Hammers (IL) for runner-up honors.

High School Boys

TJ Jarrett of Plainfield Pack (IL) is the favorite after surpassing 51 feet last season. He’ll look to open 2026 with a statement win. Matt Pikus of Brother Rice (IL) owns a PR just under 50 feet and will aim to break that barrier for the first time.

High School Girls

Zion Young of Maroa-Forsyth (IL) has been on fire indoors, already launching a 42’4.25” throw this season. The AAU Northern Indoor Nationals champion will look to remain undefeated. Isabella Thurston of Normal University (IL), who owns a PR over 40 feet and placed fourth at last year’s IESA 2A State Meet, is her top challenger.

Pole Vault

High School Boys

Isaiah Whitaker of Bloomington Central Catholic (IL) takes center stage with a towering 18’1” PR. This will be his season opener, and he’s expected to push the bar early and often. Isaac Roman of Crown Point (IN) owns a massive 16’9” PR and has already cleared 16’6” this season. With Whitaker in the field, Roman could be pushed into the 17-foot range.

High School Girls

Eureka (IL) could sweep the top two spots behind Reagan Bishop and Bre Lehman. Bishop has surged early indoors, clearing 12’0” after previously owning an 11’9” PR and finishing sixth at last year’s 2A State Meet.

Lehman brings an 11’2” PR from her freshman year and is consistently strong in the high 10s. Despite this being her season opener, she should secure a solid second-place finish.

Triple Jump

High School Boys

This event could quietly steal the show if the top athletes are hitting PRs. Shaun Alexander of My Best Track Club (IL) enters as the narrow favorite after exploding for a 46’7.5” PR at Winter Speed Madness. If he replicates that mark, he’ll be tough to beat.

Anthony Edison Jr. of Homewood-Flossmoor (IL) is right there with a 46’3” indoor best and a 46’5” PR. A massive jump is almost guaranteed between these two.

High School Girls

A star-studded field awaits in the girls’ triple jump. Jordan Hamb of Windy City Hammers (IL) enters with a monstrous 41’5” PR and elite consistency in the 38-foot range, though this will be her indoor debut. Courtney Burt and Taya Rice, both of Windy City Hammers (IL), loom as serious threats. Burt owns a 39’4” PR, while Rice upset Hamb at last year’s state meet with a 39’6” leap. With all three capable of winning, this event could come down to inches.

High Jump

High School Boys

Joshua Junek of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI) is the top seed at 6’6” and has been consistently clearing 6’4” indoors. He finished eighth at last year’s Wisconsin State Meet.

However, Isaiah Salami of Victory Track and Field Club (MN) may be the favorite after clearing 6’10.25” last season en route to a Minnesota state title. Brody McNeal and Reid Kluesner of Jumper Athletics (IA), both seeded at 6’5”, will challenge for second.

High School Girls

Anna Woods of Jumper Athletics (IA) enters seeded at 5’6” and looks to bounce back from a tough state meet performance last season.

Peyton Keller of Milwaukee Speed Academy (WI), the reigning Wisconsin state champion, also owns a 5’6” PR and has already cleared 5’4.25” indoors, making her the likely favorite. Sammy Carr of Top Self Training (MN) adds depth with a 5’5” PR and a sixth-place finish at last year’s Minnesota State Meet.