Very impressive run by Gracie Morris. She really took it to those ladies. Looked like Sage was going to kick past her, but Morris powered up those hills at the end. Great win!
I hate to say it but I think it is only a matter of time before she gets popped. Never really did much in her entire career and then all of a sudden she takes 5th at Worlds and makes the 2K team as a pure 800m runner over a bunch of milers including Mackay? I don't buy it.
I think a naturally high cadence is the greatest advantage on a muddy course. Emily Mackay seems to have a relatively slow cadence and long stride, so I think that did her no favors today. Gracie Morris has a really quick turnover, as did Dudek in the HS race. Obviously, this is all just visual estimation and I haven't actually counted out their cadence.