SO Frankline Tonui (8:15 3K; 8:45 3K Steeple; 29:14 10K)

SO Alex George (3:44 1500; 8:02 3K; 14:16 5K; 183rd NCAA XC ’14)

SR Gabe Gonzales (8:08 3K; 13:59 5K; 29:04 10K; 209th NCAA XC ’14)

SR Cale Wallace (3:49 1500; 151st NCAA XC ’14)

SO Austen Dalquist (4:00 Mile; 229th NCAA XC ’14)

Cameron Griffith via Australia (1:50 800; 3:47 1500)

Stephen Mugeche via Blue Springs, MO (4:12 1600; 8:58 3200)

For the past 3-4 years the Razorbacks have relied on their star runners to carry the team. However, with Stanley Kebenei and Kemoy Campbell now gone head coach Chris Bucknam will look to his ‘under the radar’ athletes to step up big in 2015. Arkansas’ roster at first glance may look like a squad that will struggle to qualify for NCAAs. However, with two strong recruits and a new low stick transfer the Razorbacks should have no problem mixing it up with the rest of the NCAA.

 

Leading off the squad will be sophomore Frankline Tonui. Tonui had a solid track season in 2015 with PBs across the board, 8:45 Steeple/29:14 10K. Tonui, a mid year transfer from Iowa Central was 4th at the NJCAA XC Championships last year. Tonui seems to be next in line to fill the hole left by Kebenei/Campbell.

 

The Razorbacks also return 6 of their 7 athletes from last year. Senior duo Gabe Gonzales and Cale Wallace will lead the charge with their veteran experience, but look for sophomore Alex George to have a breakout season. George who was co-SEC Freshman of the Year had a quiet freshman year but the kid can run. George’s PBs of 3:44/8:02/14:16 are impressive for the young Brit.

 

The Razorbacks also bring in two strong freshmen, Cameron Griffith and Stephen Mugeche who will add to the team’s depth in 2015. Overall, the Razorbacks will be all about having ‘breakout’ seasons, especially from their two sophomore studs Tonui and George. If all goes to plan don’t be surprised if you see the Razorbacks sneak into the top 20.