Continuing the rich tradition of excellence in the Pella cross country programs will be the goal of the runners in green and white today at the Pella Sports Park, as they welcome Knoxville and several ranked teams for the 3A district race.

The No. 6 Dutch boys are seeking a 16th team appearance at state in the past 17 years, while the No. 11 Pella girls are trying for a 16th consecutive trip to Fort Dodge.

Ranked teams to watch (based on the new rankings issued Tuesday):
In the boys race, No. 12 Carlisle, No. 14 Gilbert, No. 15 Newton, and No. 19 Clear Creek-Amana are competing, while No. 6 Gilbert, No. 8 Carlisle, No. 9 Ballard, and No. 14 Clear Creek-Amana are in the girls race as teams to watch. The top three schools in each race advance to the final 15 next Friday.

Knoxville is joining several other central Iowa teams in trying to upset those top schools.

Races begin at 4 p.m. at the Pella Sports Park for the 3A state cross country qualifier, with $5 parking per vehicle.