The state cross-country final at Michigan International Speedway is scheduled for Saturday, featuring five teams and six individual qualifiers from Livingston County. Brighton and Pinckney have qualified both their boys and girls teams, while Hartland’s girls are returning to the finals for the first time since 2011. Brighton’s boys team will look to improve on their previous performances by taking on strong rivals Jenison and Northville. The girls are poised to match or surpass last year’s fourth-place finish, led by standout Lydia LaMarra. The races start at 9:30 a.m. and take place throughout the day in various divisions.

Through the numbers

• The Brighton boys have won the Division 1 championship three times in the last five years.
• Lydia LaMarra, Brighton’s standout runner, has a regional time of 18:19.1, ranking 23rd in Division 1.

state of affairs

• In the final national poll, Brighton boys came third and girls sixth.
• Hartland’s girls team is headed to the state finals for the first time in over a decade.

What’s next?

Competitors battle it out for top placings, with the Brighton boys aiming for a podium finish and the girls aiming for good placings. Several runners, including LaMarra and Wiegand, are vying for all-state honors. The results could set the tone for future seasons and further strengthen the county’s reputation in cross country.

Conclusion

Livingston County’s cross country teams bring high expectations and solid potential to the state finals. Given the tough competition, this weekend’s performance could mark an important milestone for several individuals and teams. Pay particular attention to the boys and girls of Brighton on a day that promises excitement and determination.