Howard Shepard, who won the 2007 5A state title, is now competing at 4A Lancaster. He won the state title as a sophomore at Skyline and, following a family move, began attending Lancaster in January. Shepard was injured for much of the outdoor season and worked his way back into form beginning with the Texas Relays in early April. He is seeded first at 1:53.19.

Highland Park senior Patrick Todd was also hobbled by injuries throughout the season but the Texas recruit has come on strong since the district meet and is second second at 1:53.90.

Skyline junior Jodale Burkley makes his debut in an 800 field that has five of the eight 2007 5A finalists back for another shot at gold.

Houston Cy-Falls' Blake Shaw, the runner-up, owns the top time in the state this season (1:49.41) and is seeded third. The Woodlands' Drew Butler owns the No. 1 seed following his victory in 1:52.67 at the Region II meet.

JONATHAN JOHNSON: Abilene