The field looks the same, but the familiar favorites might find the challenge stronger from the local teams.

Logan and Watkins Memorial have dominated the Ironton Invitational in recent years, but the South Point Pointers, Chesapeake Panthers and Huntington Highlanders could provide a threat to their stranglehold when the meet gets underway at 11 a.m. Saturday.

"South Point has some strong kids. They could make a run for it," Ironton coach Greg Cronacher said. "Huntington has a lot of speed and Chesapeake has a lot of depth. It should be interesting."

Also in the field besides the host Fighting Tigers will be Fairland, West Union, South Gallia and Williamson, W.Va.

Cronacher isn't sure how the Fighting Tigers stack up against the rest of the field, but he's been pleased with his team's workouts.

"We have good numbers, but they need some experience," Cronacher said. "But their attitude has been good and they're working hard."

Leading Ironton will be senior Shane Kerns who will be in sprints, relays and the long jump.

"Shane is really looking good. He's taken charge and he's a been a real leader for us. He should do a lot of good things for us,," Cronacher said.

Other sprinters should be Shawon Miller, Darius Lewis, D.J. Carter and Marcus Miller.

Although Cronacher admits Ironton doesn't have a super sprinter, he thinks the balance of runners will make difference.

"The relays will be strong. We have a lot of guys who can run and they've done everything we've asked," Cronacher said. "Shawon Miller should be a big plus, but he just came out of basketball."

The return of Josh Carty and John Pemberton head a wealth of throwers.

"Carty could come up big for us along with Pemberton.Our throwers should be good. We've got a lot of them," Cronacher said.

Gone is pole vaulter Justin Gillum, fifth in the state last year, which leaves the event open to Jess Zornes and Roger Ackison.

Cronacher likes his young runners especially hurdlers Walter Ballard and Lee Hamilton.

"Hamilton could be a good one and Ballard is pretty good. They could be good down the road," Cronacher said.

Others expected to contribute are Nick Davis, Tim Vandermosten, Chad Carty, John Jackson and Brandon Bazell.

"We have some kids who are gutsy and battle," Cronacher said.