(Photo: John Jost)
2. Isaac Ashton - Tipton - JR: If the 2016 state cross country meet showed us anything in regards to Isaac Ashton, it's that he has no fear. The sophomore from Tipton led the first mile before falling to 7th through 2 miles and finishing in 8th. Ashton enjoyed a breakout sophomore campaign and comes in with the fastest returning time in Class 2 - 16:05 - run on the fast Russellville course. He also secured all-state honors on the track with a 2nd place finish in the Class 2 3200 (10:13) and 7th in the Class 2 1600 (4:37), both PRs. Look for the young man from Central MO to challenge the one athlete ahead of him in these preseason rankings for the top spot in Class 2.