* Cory, Ashley and Olivia highlight the top athletes in the girls 3K on an episode of On The Line
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Can this be the year where Karrie Baloga takes the 3K title at Penn Relays?
The Cornwall (NY) senior is the top returner and arguably the heavy favorite in this event as she finished second in this field in 2022 with a 9:31.88. During the winter, she clocked four performances under 9:30 at this distance, including a 9:22 personal best to win the New York state title.
However, this field is completely loaded with talent and Baloga will have to cross the finish line ahead of many state champions Friday night.
Ciara O'Shea of Madison Central (KY) will compete in her first Penn Relay meet in her career. The nine-time Kentucky state champion and North Carolina commit has been posting a handful of the nation's top performances from the 800m through the 5K. This spring, she already ran a 9:59.18 in the 3,200m at the Arcadia Invitational to be US No. 10.
Also in the mix will be Leah Stephens of Our Lady Of Good Counsel (MD) and Gillian Bushee of Herndon (VA). Stephens posted the nation's second-fastest indoor 3,200m time with a 10:08.91. In her outdoor debut, she clocked a US No. 13 performance with a 10:03.58 earlier this month.
Don't forget about Alyssa Sauro of Williamstown (WV) who ran a 10:30.51 in the 3,200m this spring.
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