Gabilan Division track

Breaking down the track and field finals

Gabilan Division

 I would never discount reigning six-time Gabilan Division champion Palma, who has defied the odds  before to win a team title during this run of championships.

 The Chieftains tend to get their peak performances at the right time and don't make mistakes, such as a foul in the field events, or a bobbled handful.

 But it's going to take a lot to get through undefeated San Benito, who is arguably one of the top five  teams in the Central Coast Section.

 Palma does not have the individuals to dominate an event, or the depth to pile up points in multiple events.

 But the final result will be closer than people think. Getting through Tuesday's trials at North Salinas is critical.

 The Balers are clearly the class of the girls division as well. Upset last year by Salinas at the league finals, they ran through the Gabilan Division this spring.

 Notre Dame has been the most improved program since the year started, behind sprinter and 300 low hurdler Kate Riordan, who is ranked fifth in the CCS in the low hurdles.

 The Spirits are going to score points in at least 15 of the 16 events, as sophomore Angela Leavitt will be among the elite in the 1,600 and 3,200.

 Things would have to go perfectly for Notre Dame to have any shot at the Balers. But it happened seven years ago. That year the Spirits won the title with seven girls scoring points.

 Jocelyn Cazarez will be a factor in the shot put and discus for North County, who finished 4-2 in dual meet competition.