The high school cross country season opened up last week for most teams in the state.

Someday, the talent pool will dry up enough and the Chandler High girls track program will be challenged for state supremacy. That day, however, is not in the immediate future.

For three years, Will Firth got by on just raw talent. He tantalized his coaches and teammates with his natural running ability, only to fall short in the biggest meets of the year because of injuries, illness and the fact that raw talent could only take the Brophy Prep senior so far.

Boys teams to watch

For an 800-meter guy, David Graham transformed into a heck of a cross country runner.

For an 800-meter guy, David Graham transformed into a heck of a cross country runner.

For an 800-meter guy, David Graham transformed into a fine cross country runner.

As conspiracies go, it’s pretty far-fetched, although anyone who watched the 5A Division I state track meet would believe it’s possible.