4A Boys State Meet Preview By Event

800 Meter Run

Last year, Richard Montgomery's Garrett Suhr won the New Balance Indoor Nationals freshman mile. Now he's hoping to add a state title - or two - to his already-impressive resume. (Photo by Brandon Miles)

AthleteSeason BestRegional Performance
Eldon Phillips, Northwood1:55.43 (Hispanic Games)2:04.73 (2nd, 4AW)
Garrett Suhr, Richard Montgomery1:56.60 (Kevin Dare Invite)2:03.12 (1st, 4AW)
Chase Osborne, Northwest1:59.26 (MCPS Meet #1)2:06.33 (5th, 4AW)
Michael Flanagan, South River2:00.67 (HoCo Winterfest)2:05.67 (2nd, 4AC)
Nathaniel Kinyanjui, Montgomery Blair2:01.90 (MoCo Champs)2:05.17 (3rd, 4AW)
Drew Dailey, Dulaney2:03.38 (4A Central Regionals)2:03.38 (1st, 4AC*)


This year's 800 meter finals may come down to a two-person showdown between two guys who have gotten to know each other pretty well over the past couple weeks. Northwood's Eldon Phillips and Richard Montgomery's Garrett Suhr currently sit 1-2 in the statewide 800 rankings, having run some big-time performances on banked tracks in January. Phillips won the matchup at the Montgomery County Championships, while Suhr got even at the 4A West Regionals. Both will be coming off of at least one other race earlier in the day (Suhr in the 1600, Phillips in the 800).

Being one of the last races of the day, often times one of the non-favorites can make a big move, especially if they are fresh and the favorites aren't. There are plenty of runners not on this particular list who could find themselves vying for a top spot with a good race, but Phillips and Suhr will definitely be the two athletes to watch in the 800.