So Magaha didn't look like Drew and Haneef Hardy gave up on the 800 a little faster than I expected, a 2:01 followed by a quick trip to the 200 at Burdette, but hey the kid will be good we will see. Magaha. Well. I don't know what happened exactly to him, maybe sickness, but if he can solo 1:54 flat track in flats than at the Armory he should be 1:51. Maybe he left himself too much ground and than gave up and didn't put in the furious kick? Well who knows but that's enough about him and enough about that meet, we are talking Burdette now friends!
So first we will talk about that pesky 800 where I saw Mike Palmisano, Paul Reilly, Alex Sheltzer and Hong Cho win the past 4. I was at all of those races and one thing I can say is that none of the winning times were under 1:58 but all those guys ended up being 1:54 or better by the time all was said and done. I like Horgan a lot this year, obviously 3:09 on that DMR in December is great BUT he just ran hard in that DMR and we will see if he has enough left to beat this field.
If Damiani stays fresh for the 8 and doesn't run the mile, he's a sleeper here. He ran 1:55 very quietly a year ago outdoors and he is a talented runner. Jake DeLehman ran a 1:57 at the meet of champions race a year ago and looked like a sleeper at states last year, but he didn't pull through. Sam Brooks has been hot and the SOL american league has quite a nice record of medals at this meet. W, W, 3rd and 4th, W. Perhaps a little biased here but Brooks is my pick to win in sleeper fashion.
1. Brooks 1:59.5
2. Horgan 1:59.8
3. DeLehman 2:00.8
4. Damiani 2:01.9
5. Willis 2:02.9
On to the mile now with Nico Metzler front running the field. He ran a nice 800 the other night and its hard to imagine him not coming back and running strong again. Field doesn't look deep enough to make a record push, but it should give some runners a chance to show case their talent. DeLehman and Damiani are both entered in this race as well, but something tells me they will bail and just go 800. But we will see about that. A couple guys with fast new 3k prs also are in the field in Ernie Pitone and Will McDermott. A 9:07 is no joke for 3k, so I like Pitone as a sleeper here. Pete Downs isn't a bad Xc guy, we will see how that translates over. Here's my picks:
1. Metzler 4:36.7
2. Pitone 4:37.8
3. Kardish 4:38.8
4. McDermott 4:39.4
5. Mullin 4:40.9
To the 3k. #Stacked. Yeah we are talking debuts at the 3k for Kelly, Willig and Wilson, all guys who were on my early watch list to mix it up for a 3k title. Now technically speaking Willig is the returning champion, but I think Wilson and Willig both remember Dillon Farrell running them down after they controlled a big lead for most of the 2nd half of the race. Only a Farrell disqualification kept him from being a surprise two time champion.
Brett Kelly is a front runner and he goes hard from the gun often, so is he next in the line to be run down in the final straightaway? Willig I think is in the best shape out of the group right now and I think if he runs smart (and the kid is going to Brown so ...) he will take down the victory. I got Brett Kelly surprising for second and Dustin Wilson not quite being back yet. He's a great runner don't get me wrong, but to expect him to beat two top runners who are in great racing shape when Wilson hasn't run this kinda pace in a while is tough.
Hey in theory I could even see Wilson at 4th or 5th, this field is very deep. I like Max Norris a lot. I haven't seen him race yet either, which worries me a bit, but he has at least not been XC training and racing into December.
And wait there's more! Francis Ferruzzi who hung tough with Kelly in the mile last time and ran 9:17 first week back after regionals, Zach Israel who has been hot although he has raced a lot and in longer races like the anchor of the DMR and the mile a week ago at the association meet so tired legs may be a factor. I like Israel as the season goes, not on board for this specific race. Than there is Billotta who looks to keep the O'Hara 3k gold streak alive with a win here at Burdette, state champion Dan Davis from a strong North Penn squad and Chris Berry who is an up and coming CB West runner who ran a 9:24 victory 3k early in the season.
This top 5 is easily the toughest to pick for me, but here's what I got.
1. Willig 8:55
2. Kelly 8:58
3. Wilson 8:59
4. Norris 9:10
5. Billotta 9:12
Now I'll talk briefly about the relays but this will be mostly speculation. First off it looks like Hibbs and Quinn are making their long awaited debut in the DMR, which may also feature A teams from North Penn, Strath Haven and Cardinal O'Hara. Haven't seen Savage yet this season, he's not on the entries, so maybe he will be running the DMR maybe he's hurt. We will see. I think North Penn and Strath Haven will go hot again, the Haven has kinda danced this dance before the last two weeks but with spikes on I am sure they want to get the states monkey off their back. I can't see Horsham winning in their first races back. We will see, they have a chance to prove me wrong, but I like the state champs North Penn to come out fast. If the 12 legs keep it moving, say Hibbs goes out hard through 800, Trimble could run very fast with fresh spiked legs. MacCauley also very talented on the anchor leg. Can't underestimate Strath Haven, they have potential to be under 10:50, they are clearly looking to hit that mark, I've got 1. North Penn 2. Strath Haven 3. Hatboro.
As for the 4x800, I have a sinking feeling it's going to be slow. I think North Penn will not run that hot which opens the door for CB South and Penncrest to take it down. I've learned in the past not to underestimate the squad from CB South, we will see if they surprise again with a fast time here at Burdette, but I'm not sure how much depth they have at 800. Dickson will have to get back to the shape he was in when he ran 1:56 or so last year. I think Penncrest has got a shot to make noise but I think they will take second behind CB South. Beyond that it is tough to predict but I suppose O'Hara and North Penn sneak in their for the next two spots although this race shouldnt be anything too fast.
-train
College Decisions (I'll Do My Best to Update)
Drew Magaha- Penn
Ned Willig- Brown
Andrew Kuchta- Bucknell
Dustin Wilson- Columbia
Sarah Holl- Cornell
Meghan McGovern- William and Mary
LJ Westwood- Bucknell
I'll do my best to update
Ned Willig- Brown
Andrew Kuchta- Bucknell
Dustin Wilson- Columbia
Sarah Holl- Cornell
Meghan McGovern- William and Mary
LJ Westwood- Bucknell
I'll do my best to update
Another Week of Action
So we didn't have the highlight reel Fireworks from Magaha and Willig Last Friday Night that would have made my Teenage Dream come true, but these guys had to end their seemingly Extraterrestrial streak eventually right?
Yes I do like Katy Perry.
The big individual names from the first weeks of the season Willig, Magaha, Brooks, MacCauley, Trimble, Kelly, and Harriman were all absent from the individual results this time around (with the exception of Brett Kelly, we will get to that).
Magaha I'm pretty sure was on that fast Upper Moreland 4x4. Probably ran like a 49 split on a Lehigh flat track which is worth 48s on a bank track. No big deal. I'm betting Willig didn't show up to the meet at all and Brooks ran on the DMR? Not anything super fast from that Wiss DMR, but maybe Brooks split fast? Who knows?
I'll tell you Strath Haven probably split pretty fast. Another solid sub 11 performance. Yeah, I'm sure they'd like to be down around states time, yeah this is the second straight week they are running it hot which is interesting, but I like this team. Strath Haven has never really opted for the DMR on the big stage at Indoor States, even when they had guys like Speare and Fink they usually ended up in the 4x8 finals. But this year to be consistently sub 11 this early in the season shows signs that this team can run around 1)10:30 at the end of the season. I don't think that's fast enough to beat Great Valley or a fresh North Penn (we will get to those guys shortly) but its a very nice time that will usually land you all state.
Potential for a pretty good DMR over in HGPrep land. Nice races by Horgan and Israel. Israel was my big sleeper at Districts, I bailed on him for states (as Brendan Shearn told me I should not have) and he proved to be pretty good there. He has potential for a nice 3k/mile kinda season. And heck 1:58.8 this early is pretty quick. It's a shame Magaha and Willig make it look like it sucks.
O'Hara three straight 3k wins. Neither of them named Billotta or Savage. If Pitone can run 9:07, I'd be surprised if Savage couldn't run 9:01 right now in the right race. I think O'Hara is showing why they were the best XC team in PA right now with a nice hot start. They will keep snagging golds as long as Dustin Wilson stays home.
Nice quarter by Haneef Hardy. If he hops on a banked track for an 800 I would be surprised if he is not at least 1:56.
On the D1 side, nice job by LaSalle and North Penn. LaSalle made it look easy. Coyle went out pretty slow and still dusted the field. Stone ran well on the anchor, pretty even splits from everybody on the squad, which had a pretty big lead from 2 laps in.
Trimble probably a little too comfortable at that 3:20 pace, probably had some room to drop, but hey he was by himself and he still ran solid. MacCauley without much competition besides the people he was lapping ran a pretty solid anchor leg. These guys have speed and they are a great 12-16 combination. Kind of reminds me of the CB South DMR from a year ago with developing middle legs and too very good end legs. Waddington was the best pure 1200 runner that I have seen in a while. He knew how to run that race very well.
Brett Kelly does it again, pretty solid even splits. Ferruzzi hung with him for about a k in 2:48ish but then Kelly broke away and Ferruzzi's spirit broke. Ferruzzi has the potential to run a little faster there. He ran about a 78 last 440. As for Kelly the 4:31 wasn't all that impressive but I think he is looking past this race towards Burdette. I would be if I were him. Imagine the possibility of getting to see Magaha or Willig rather than 4 guys who didn't break 4:40. No offense meant of course.
Nice race by a couple newbies to the top of the scene. Metzler, Wiseman, Felt and Logue. Metzler and Logue I've heard the names thrown around, I knew they were good, the other two were impressively fast. A bunch of guys who this time last year were nobodys and now all look like they will clinch a states spot before 2012.
Hopefully some good stuff goes down at Burdette. I'm pumped.
Yes I do like Katy Perry.
The big individual names from the first weeks of the season Willig, Magaha, Brooks, MacCauley, Trimble, Kelly, and Harriman were all absent from the individual results this time around (with the exception of Brett Kelly, we will get to that).
Magaha I'm pretty sure was on that fast Upper Moreland 4x4. Probably ran like a 49 split on a Lehigh flat track which is worth 48s on a bank track. No big deal. I'm betting Willig didn't show up to the meet at all and Brooks ran on the DMR? Not anything super fast from that Wiss DMR, but maybe Brooks split fast? Who knows?
I'll tell you Strath Haven probably split pretty fast. Another solid sub 11 performance. Yeah, I'm sure they'd like to be down around states time, yeah this is the second straight week they are running it hot which is interesting, but I like this team. Strath Haven has never really opted for the DMR on the big stage at Indoor States, even when they had guys like Speare and Fink they usually ended up in the 4x8 finals. But this year to be consistently sub 11 this early in the season shows signs that this team can run around 1)10:30 at the end of the season. I don't think that's fast enough to beat Great Valley or a fresh North Penn (we will get to those guys shortly) but its a very nice time that will usually land you all state.
Potential for a pretty good DMR over in HGPrep land. Nice races by Horgan and Israel. Israel was my big sleeper at Districts, I bailed on him for states (as Brendan Shearn told me I should not have) and he proved to be pretty good there. He has potential for a nice 3k/mile kinda season. And heck 1:58.8 this early is pretty quick. It's a shame Magaha and Willig make it look like it sucks.
O'Hara three straight 3k wins. Neither of them named Billotta or Savage. If Pitone can run 9:07, I'd be surprised if Savage couldn't run 9:01 right now in the right race. I think O'Hara is showing why they were the best XC team in PA right now with a nice hot start. They will keep snagging golds as long as Dustin Wilson stays home.
Nice quarter by Haneef Hardy. If he hops on a banked track for an 800 I would be surprised if he is not at least 1:56.
On the D1 side, nice job by LaSalle and North Penn. LaSalle made it look easy. Coyle went out pretty slow and still dusted the field. Stone ran well on the anchor, pretty even splits from everybody on the squad, which had a pretty big lead from 2 laps in.
Trimble probably a little too comfortable at that 3:20 pace, probably had some room to drop, but hey he was by himself and he still ran solid. MacCauley without much competition besides the people he was lapping ran a pretty solid anchor leg. These guys have speed and they are a great 12-16 combination. Kind of reminds me of the CB South DMR from a year ago with developing middle legs and too very good end legs. Waddington was the best pure 1200 runner that I have seen in a while. He knew how to run that race very well.
Brett Kelly does it again, pretty solid even splits. Ferruzzi hung with him for about a k in 2:48ish but then Kelly broke away and Ferruzzi's spirit broke. Ferruzzi has the potential to run a little faster there. He ran about a 78 last 440. As for Kelly the 4:31 wasn't all that impressive but I think he is looking past this race towards Burdette. I would be if I were him. Imagine the possibility of getting to see Magaha or Willig rather than 4 guys who didn't break 4:40. No offense meant of course.
Nice race by a couple newbies to the top of the scene. Metzler, Wiseman, Felt and Logue. Metzler and Logue I've heard the names thrown around, I knew they were good, the other two were impressively fast. A bunch of guys who this time last year were nobodys and now all look like they will clinch a states spot before 2012.
Hopefully some good stuff goes down at Burdette. I'm pumped.
I'm Sick ... Not in the cool way
So I've been sick over the past few days, I still managed to make it to the association meet on friday night, but the next morning I woke up with an 102 degree fever so... needless to say my posting ability has been restricted. Plus one of the comments a little farther down on this page I missed, asking about why I called this XC season a "huge down year". Perhaps "huge" was a little bit of an overexaggeration, but heck I'm going to stand by what I said. I commented back on the post itself but just to make sure that whoever said commenter was sees my response I figured I'd post it up here for you guys to lay into me about how wrong I am. Read away:
First of all, you said it yourself, the times on the whole were down. If Juniors are that dominate at the top of the states results that is a sign that it is a down year. The Junior class is good, they will be fast at states next year, yes, yes I agree, but the Senior Class is the clear indicator of how good the state was really. Unless the Jr class is Ed Cheserek, Joe Rosa, Craig Lutz good, the state can't be that great and be dominated by Jrs, really across the board. Conner Quinn wasn't even the top guy on his team for most of the year, let alone the state. The top guys were incredibly inconsistent besides Wilson and a few AA guys. There was no dominance, there was no Brad Miles or Paul Springer.
As for Beveridge take note of how much he won that race by and what the conditions were like that day. It was hot out that day, it was a beautiful day this year. Weather is a huge factor in XC, its like trying to compare the 2 mile at states each year, you can't really do it. Fischer's year the weather was way better and the pace was much faster than this past year with Glenn and Hebda. No disrespect to Fischer of course, he still ran 9:03 and that's fast regardless of the condition outside, but I think favorable conditions helped him edge out guys like Dennin and Weller and Aldrich's 3200m times at states.
For further proof just look at our results on a national level, we had 3 guys qualifiers last year, the year before that we had 3 and the year before that (down year again, we just had 1), then the year before that we had 3 again (possibly could have had 4). So I'm just saying this year was a down year. Especially for AAA boys which, not to be rude, is where the depth of the state that year is really determined.
-train
ps sorry for the late response hope you see this
First of all, you said it yourself, the times on the whole were down. If Juniors are that dominate at the top of the states results that is a sign that it is a down year. The Junior class is good, they will be fast at states next year, yes, yes I agree, but the Senior Class is the clear indicator of how good the state was really. Unless the Jr class is Ed Cheserek, Joe Rosa, Craig Lutz good, the state can't be that great and be dominated by Jrs, really across the board. Conner Quinn wasn't even the top guy on his team for most of the year, let alone the state. The top guys were incredibly inconsistent besides Wilson and a few AA guys. There was no dominance, there was no Brad Miles or Paul Springer.
As for Beveridge take note of how much he won that race by and what the conditions were like that day. It was hot out that day, it was a beautiful day this year. Weather is a huge factor in XC, its like trying to compare the 2 mile at states each year, you can't really do it. Fischer's year the weather was way better and the pace was much faster than this past year with Glenn and Hebda. No disrespect to Fischer of course, he still ran 9:03 and that's fast regardless of the condition outside, but I think favorable conditions helped him edge out guys like Dennin and Weller and Aldrich's 3200m times at states.
For further proof just look at our results on a national level, we had 3 guys qualifiers last year, the year before that we had 3 and the year before that (down year again, we just had 1), then the year before that we had 3 again (possibly could have had 4). So I'm just saying this year was a down year. Especially for AAA boys which, not to be rude, is where the depth of the state that year is really determined.
-train
ps sorry for the late response hope you see this
NCAA PA Early Performances
Sam Negley 1:53.88
Jaleel Rodgers 1:54.87
Matt McGarvey 1:55.51
Oliver Dugas 1:57.15
Paul Reilly 4:14.98
Zach Hebda 8:45.97
Jacob Kildoo 14:38.02
Rad Gunzenhauser 14:39.94
Ian Quinlan 14:44.04
Jaleel Rodgers 1:54.87
Matt McGarvey 1:55.51
Oliver Dugas 1:57.15
Paul Reilly 4:14.98
Zach Hebda 8:45.97
Jacob Kildoo 14:38.02
Rad Gunzenhauser 14:39.94
Ian Quinlan 14:44.04
etrain at Lehigh
I'm going to be at the next two high school indoor track meets at Lehigh (only the Division one meet this coming Friday, sorry D2 guys) and I just wanted to throw this out there: Anyone who sees me, feel free to come over say hi and talk track. If you need to know what I look like, feel free to stalk me on facebook. My name is Jarrett Felix and I love have extra facebook friends who are runners. And don't feel weird, I probably have stalked your times at some point or another, so stalking what I look like is really not a big deal.
Last year at Burdette, I had some people talk to me and it made me look really famous in front of my friends even though I'm not so that was pretty sweet. I have expectations for this meet to top that. Just like last year as the "track guru" I am willing to sign coloring books and meet up and coming penntrack posters like runthrowjump and have awkward facial interactions with future 4:11 milers while said 4:11 miler reads his book and laughs about me signing coloring books and meeting up and coming penntrack posters. So yeah, Great Valley knows what I'm talking about.
Any who, come talk to me please! It will make me feel less weird about being at a high school meet when I'm 20 years old.
-train
Last year at Burdette, I had some people talk to me and it made me look really famous in front of my friends even though I'm not so that was pretty sweet. I have expectations for this meet to top that. Just like last year as the "track guru" I am willing to sign coloring books and meet up and coming penntrack posters like runthrowjump and have awkward facial interactions with future 4:11 milers while said 4:11 miler reads his book and laughs about me signing coloring books and meeting up and coming penntrack posters. So yeah, Great Valley knows what I'm talking about.
Any who, come talk to me please! It will make me feel less weird about being at a high school meet when I'm 20 years old.
-train
Week 2 Analysis
So another week of Indoor Track and another week of craziness goes down. So where should I start this week's analysis? Hmmmmm .... How about the duo of Drew Magaha and Ned Willig.
So I said all those nice things about Ned last week for dropping that quick of an 800, and hey Drew the same thing applies to you now. Unreal first 800 of the season. 1:55 this early on a flat track is unprecedented. To have two guys that fast is amazing.
I'll be frank here, this past XC season was a down year for PA. Probably one of the biggest down years I've seen in the past couple years. But this track season has started out as one of the most talented years we will ever see. Ned and Drew look like could push each other at the end of the season to sub 4:10 indoors.
Nice 4:17 for Ned. I'm honestly not too surprised with that kind of time after that 800. I'm hoping Ned and Drew get their first duel at Millrose Games. Drew definitely would have a shot to win if Cheserek isn't it/leaves the race to a kick. But I mean Cheserek is already in 4:09 shape and he just finished XC, so there is no reason to think he won't run fast at Millrose.
I'm hoping when I make my guest appearence at the Burdette Invitational I get to see a Drew v. Ned dual. Maybe through Brett Kelly in their just for kicks. See how fast he can go if he hangs on.
Now there are other runners besides the big two in the state. Props to a nice DMR from Strath Haven, Sam Brooks with a really big win and fast time, it looks like he has taken the next step, and O'Hara has a second straight gold medalist in the 3k, neither of which were named Savage or Billotta.
Haneef Hardy, Jonathan Stiles and Ryan Horgran all look like sleepers this year. Hardy especially. He has an outside shot at the 800 title against a tired Drew. Drew has yet to prove to me his a dynamic doubler. He still has time to do that obviously, but he has to improve in that area. Wade could always do it, we will see what Drew has got.
I still haven't seen too many relay performances that make me excited for the relays indoors, which are honestly my favorite thing about most indoors meets. I love the DMR and I want to see a battle shape up. North Penn and Great Valley the only squads I've seen with real potential so far. Strath Haven will be good but I don't see them being state champ good.
Lastly, it's sprints but hey you gotta mention him, nice work by Eric Fucht, he straight killed that 300m and his 4x4 came back with a nice 3:23 flat. Fucht is going to be scary this year. He's a crazy fast sprinter, but remember his event is even on the indoor states itenerary. Come outdoors, we may ever be talking top 10 all time and national record kind of times in the 300m Hurdles. 35.0x is the record. Keep it in mind.
Good work PA for proving PA don't play.
-train
So I said all those nice things about Ned last week for dropping that quick of an 800, and hey Drew the same thing applies to you now. Unreal first 800 of the season. 1:55 this early on a flat track is unprecedented. To have two guys that fast is amazing.
I'll be frank here, this past XC season was a down year for PA. Probably one of the biggest down years I've seen in the past couple years. But this track season has started out as one of the most talented years we will ever see. Ned and Drew look like could push each other at the end of the season to sub 4:10 indoors.
Nice 4:17 for Ned. I'm honestly not too surprised with that kind of time after that 800. I'm hoping Ned and Drew get their first duel at Millrose Games. Drew definitely would have a shot to win if Cheserek isn't it/leaves the race to a kick. But I mean Cheserek is already in 4:09 shape and he just finished XC, so there is no reason to think he won't run fast at Millrose.
I'm hoping when I make my guest appearence at the Burdette Invitational I get to see a Drew v. Ned dual. Maybe through Brett Kelly in their just for kicks. See how fast he can go if he hangs on.
Now there are other runners besides the big two in the state. Props to a nice DMR from Strath Haven, Sam Brooks with a really big win and fast time, it looks like he has taken the next step, and O'Hara has a second straight gold medalist in the 3k, neither of which were named Savage or Billotta.
Haneef Hardy, Jonathan Stiles and Ryan Horgran all look like sleepers this year. Hardy especially. He has an outside shot at the 800 title against a tired Drew. Drew has yet to prove to me his a dynamic doubler. He still has time to do that obviously, but he has to improve in that area. Wade could always do it, we will see what Drew has got.
I still haven't seen too many relay performances that make me excited for the relays indoors, which are honestly my favorite thing about most indoors meets. I love the DMR and I want to see a battle shape up. North Penn and Great Valley the only squads I've seen with real potential so far. Strath Haven will be good but I don't see them being state champ good.
Lastly, it's sprints but hey you gotta mention him, nice work by Eric Fucht, he straight killed that 300m and his 4x4 came back with a nice 3:23 flat. Fucht is going to be scary this year. He's a crazy fast sprinter, but remember his event is even on the indoor states itenerary. Come outdoors, we may ever be talking top 10 all time and national record kind of times in the 300m Hurdles. 35.0x is the record. Keep it in mind.
Good work PA for proving PA don't play.
-train
Top PA XC Runner's of my Generation
It was supposed to just be up to 50 but I got carried away :/
1. Brad Miles
2. Mark Dennin
3. Jason Weller
4. Paul Springer
5. Max Kaulbach
6. Dustin Wilson
7. Ryan Gil
8. Vince McNally
9. Chris Aldrich
10. Kyle Dawson
11. Jimmy Tarsnane
12. Ben Furcht
13. Joe Beveridge
14. Zach Hebda
15. Rad Gunzenhauser
16. Wade Endress
17. Conner Quinn
18. Will Kellar
19. Dan Lowry
20. Chris Campbell
21. Jacob Kildoo
22. Matt McCullough
23. Dan Jaskowak
24. Patrick DeSabato
25. Neal Berman
26. Juris Silenieks
27. Chuck Lockwood
28. Lucas Zarzeczny
29. Brett Kelly
30. Joe Kush
31. Gus McKenzie
32. Drew Magaha
33. Josh Izewski
34. Tyler Jones
35. Alfredo Santana
36. Logan Steiner
37. Sam Bernitt
38. Reece Ayers
39. Brendan Shearn
40. Isaac Dunkleberger
41. Jim Spisak
42. Nick Crits
43. Scott VanKooten
44. Tom Panulla
45. Owen Dawson
46. Sean Ward
47. Dan Savage
48. Sam Hibbs
49. Kyle Hurston
50. Dave Adley
51. Bud Plaszesnki
52. Dan Krystek
53. Bobby Micikas
54. Matt Gregory
1. Brad Miles
2. Mark Dennin
3. Jason Weller
4. Paul Springer
5. Max Kaulbach
6. Dustin Wilson
7. Ryan Gil
8. Vince McNally
9. Chris Aldrich
10. Kyle Dawson
11. Jimmy Tarsnane
12. Ben Furcht
13. Joe Beveridge
14. Zach Hebda
15. Rad Gunzenhauser
16. Wade Endress
17. Conner Quinn
18. Will Kellar
19. Dan Lowry
20. Chris Campbell
21. Jacob Kildoo
22. Matt McCullough
23. Dan Jaskowak
24. Patrick DeSabato
25. Neal Berman
26. Juris Silenieks
27. Chuck Lockwood
28. Lucas Zarzeczny
29. Brett Kelly
30. Joe Kush
31. Gus McKenzie
32. Drew Magaha
33. Josh Izewski
34. Tyler Jones
35. Alfredo Santana
36. Logan Steiner
37. Sam Bernitt
38. Reece Ayers
39. Brendan Shearn
40. Isaac Dunkleberger
41. Jim Spisak
42. Nick Crits
43. Scott VanKooten
44. Tom Panulla
45. Owen Dawson
46. Sean Ward
47. Dan Savage
48. Sam Hibbs
49. Kyle Hurston
50. Dave Adley
51. Bud Plaszesnki
52. Dan Krystek
53. Bobby Micikas
54. Matt Gregory
Indoor Thoughts
The season is young, not much has gone down, but I have some things I noticed over the past weekend which excited me in a bunch of different ways. So here's what I got.
A lot of guys are still getting back from regionals, Wilson was actually at Nationals busy being an All-American and all that jazz, so we didn't get to see all of the talent we thought we might.
That being said, Brett Kelly came out the gates firing. He just ran regionals a couple weeks ago and he already wins easily in the mile over Trimble, leading from the gun. Trimble and MacCauley (both also just had regionals) ran great races on Saturday as well.
Kelly is one of my early picks to make serious noise at states. I'm talking around top 3 in the 3k indoors. I think the mile field is too deep right now on paper for him to finish as high there as he would in the 3k. Here's the thing you have to remember: Kelly has been very good indoors the last two seasons, he had easily his best xc season this past fall, and he has no DMR to tie him down and take away his chances at individual glory. Boyertown was a few seconds away from pulling a pretty big upset and winning the DMR at states last year, and that had a lot to do with Brett Kelly on the anchor. Watch out for this kid this year.
As for the North Penn boys, they are the state champs in XC so obviously there is a lot of talent there. I heard they are going to be sticking to the relays indoors which will be interesting because Trimble has to be an early pick to mix it up for the top 3-5 spots in the 8 at states, maybe even higher if guys like Willig and Magaha drop it (and I do think Willig isn't even really considering the 8 at states, but I'll get to that later). I assume they will be looking DMR over 4x8 which would be the first time I can remember North Penn being a legimate state title contender in the DMR, usually they are all about the 4x8 (and rightfully so, they have quite the history).
A couple other things from the D1 meet I'll throw out there:
Fucht is good, should be fun to watch this year even for us distance guys. Pennwood has some potential to hav some nice relays as well.
Brad Rivera, slow time but he got the win, so I'll take it. Hoping to see more from Ryan Dickson in the coming weeks. I think he has potential to follow in Gregor and Waddington's footsteps from a year ago.
Connor Harriman will bounce back, he went out a little too hard, but this was supposed to be the big name in the 3k at this meet, Ferruzzi and MacCauley both had regionals they were training for and Glatts isn't a recogonizable name for most people (unless you're last name is train). Still a pretty quick opener for all those guys. 5 under 9:20 at the first meet is sick.
CR North and CB West. At it again.
Now on to the D2 meet. This was the meet with the big names. A couple of track guys at heart who are happy to have shed their XC coats and hop on to the oval and run fast. Magaha ran a nice solid mile. Its quick for this early, without a doubt, but he's a 4:07 miler (closing in 58 I should add) so it's really not a surprise to see that race out of him.
On the other hand Ned Willig dropped a frickin bomb on the indoor track world. Look, I believe in this kid, I know he's good. 4:11 last year, 1:51 speed, 15:30s in the 5k, 9:20s in the 2 mile blah blah blah. But nobody runs 1:55 this eary. Nobody. Not even the Abington kids going to the armory and dropping fast times, not Tom Mallon, the state record holder, nobody.
1:55, flat track, no competition, no spikes, in December. Wow.
So I look at this time and in most cases my first instinct is simple: Peaking too early, gonna burn out around Febuary 25th. And if you get lucky, you will make it to the end of March.
But with Ned, I don't know if I can use that explanation. This guy is a hard worker and a smart kid, probably bound for an Ivy League school next fall, and he hasn't had problems with peaking to early in the past.
If he holds up with the kind of times he's running right now in December the mile at states could be truly epic. Magaha will have his hands full with a Willig who is in this kind of shape.
At states, I'd imagine Willig is going to stick with that DMR. The team is pretty passionate about trying to win states after their disappointing finish last year (they were my pick to win, I think) where Ned sacrificed all his individual events for the relay. I don't know if anyone can honestly expect him to sacrifice his individual event this time around, but he probably won't need to.
I can't see another DMR anchor runner under 4:20 in the race, and at this rate Willig is going to be running a Dan Lowry like 4:12 split, even on the double.
Only time will tell.
Quick shout out to Horgan and Brooks for some nice 2nd place finishes behind two of the best in the state.
Both those times are very solid for the first meet of the season.
Oh and of course big shout out to loyal blog reader and penntrack poster Demetrius McCary on the big win. Good job bud.
A lot of guys are still getting back from regionals, Wilson was actually at Nationals busy being an All-American and all that jazz, so we didn't get to see all of the talent we thought we might.
That being said, Brett Kelly came out the gates firing. He just ran regionals a couple weeks ago and he already wins easily in the mile over Trimble, leading from the gun. Trimble and MacCauley (both also just had regionals) ran great races on Saturday as well.
Kelly is one of my early picks to make serious noise at states. I'm talking around top 3 in the 3k indoors. I think the mile field is too deep right now on paper for him to finish as high there as he would in the 3k. Here's the thing you have to remember: Kelly has been very good indoors the last two seasons, he had easily his best xc season this past fall, and he has no DMR to tie him down and take away his chances at individual glory. Boyertown was a few seconds away from pulling a pretty big upset and winning the DMR at states last year, and that had a lot to do with Brett Kelly on the anchor. Watch out for this kid this year.
As for the North Penn boys, they are the state champs in XC so obviously there is a lot of talent there. I heard they are going to be sticking to the relays indoors which will be interesting because Trimble has to be an early pick to mix it up for the top 3-5 spots in the 8 at states, maybe even higher if guys like Willig and Magaha drop it (and I do think Willig isn't even really considering the 8 at states, but I'll get to that later). I assume they will be looking DMR over 4x8 which would be the first time I can remember North Penn being a legimate state title contender in the DMR, usually they are all about the 4x8 (and rightfully so, they have quite the history).
A couple other things from the D1 meet I'll throw out there:
Fucht is good, should be fun to watch this year even for us distance guys. Pennwood has some potential to hav some nice relays as well.
Brad Rivera, slow time but he got the win, so I'll take it. Hoping to see more from Ryan Dickson in the coming weeks. I think he has potential to follow in Gregor and Waddington's footsteps from a year ago.
Connor Harriman will bounce back, he went out a little too hard, but this was supposed to be the big name in the 3k at this meet, Ferruzzi and MacCauley both had regionals they were training for and Glatts isn't a recogonizable name for most people (unless you're last name is train). Still a pretty quick opener for all those guys. 5 under 9:20 at the first meet is sick.
CR North and CB West. At it again.
Now on to the D2 meet. This was the meet with the big names. A couple of track guys at heart who are happy to have shed their XC coats and hop on to the oval and run fast. Magaha ran a nice solid mile. Its quick for this early, without a doubt, but he's a 4:07 miler (closing in 58 I should add) so it's really not a surprise to see that race out of him.
On the other hand Ned Willig dropped a frickin bomb on the indoor track world. Look, I believe in this kid, I know he's good. 4:11 last year, 1:51 speed, 15:30s in the 5k, 9:20s in the 2 mile blah blah blah. But nobody runs 1:55 this eary. Nobody. Not even the Abington kids going to the armory and dropping fast times, not Tom Mallon, the state record holder, nobody.
1:55, flat track, no competition, no spikes, in December. Wow.
So I look at this time and in most cases my first instinct is simple: Peaking too early, gonna burn out around Febuary 25th. And if you get lucky, you will make it to the end of March.
But with Ned, I don't know if I can use that explanation. This guy is a hard worker and a smart kid, probably bound for an Ivy League school next fall, and he hasn't had problems with peaking to early in the past.
If he holds up with the kind of times he's running right now in December the mile at states could be truly epic. Magaha will have his hands full with a Willig who is in this kind of shape.
At states, I'd imagine Willig is going to stick with that DMR. The team is pretty passionate about trying to win states after their disappointing finish last year (they were my pick to win, I think) where Ned sacrificed all his individual events for the relay. I don't know if anyone can honestly expect him to sacrifice his individual event this time around, but he probably won't need to.
I can't see another DMR anchor runner under 4:20 in the race, and at this rate Willig is going to be running a Dan Lowry like 4:12 split, even on the double.
Only time will tell.
Quick shout out to Horgan and Brooks for some nice 2nd place finishes behind two of the best in the state.
Both those times are very solid for the first meet of the season.
Oh and of course big shout out to loyal blog reader and penntrack poster Demetrius McCary on the big win. Good job bud.
Footlocker Nationals
So I was wrong. Cheserek didn't scare the course record today at Balboa Park, but man was that one heck of a race. I feel extremely priveleged to say I got to see both races on live webcast today (both were awesome, especially the guys) and got to watch two PA runners work their way up to All-American status. PA don't play.
Now Angel may have left a little bit too much ground early and had to play too much catch up, but that was probably better. A fast pace at that course would have hurt her bad. Meanwhile, she ran in the 17:40s at that course so that's pretty legit.
Dustin just ran solid and kept his head about where 15th place was. Great job by Dustin, 2nd Northeast finisher behind only Eddie Ches. Nice company.
But on to the race out front. All hope I had for the record went out the window when Cheserek sat back the first mile and waited to see what Futsum would do, so then it was just on to who would win the title. The two battled it out hard core over the whole stretch with a huge move at the hill, probably the fastest I have seen anyone take that hill since Matt Withrow.
That being said the time wasn't all that fast. Verzbicas ran 14:59 the year before basically walking the last stretch and having run a horrible conditioned course at NXN just a week prior. So maybe I have to rethink Cheserek as the greatest XC runner of my generation. LV is still pretty darn good.
Come track we will see what kind of gears Cheserek has to go after Lukas's records and chase down marks like 8:30 and 4:00 and 14:00, each more likely than the mark prior.
13:37, 8:29, and 3:53. All pretty legit, but the way Cheserek ran this year, in the right race he could scare some of these.
And heck if not, he's got a whole other year after this.
Somebody get me a birth certificate please.
-train
PS I'm working on a rankings board for the top 50 XC runners over the past 6 years (since I started following the sport) for the PA boys. I'll hear some opinions and such and you all can let me know what you think before/during/after I finish the process. Keep in touch and get pumped because now it's officially track season.
Now Angel may have left a little bit too much ground early and had to play too much catch up, but that was probably better. A fast pace at that course would have hurt her bad. Meanwhile, she ran in the 17:40s at that course so that's pretty legit.
Dustin just ran solid and kept his head about where 15th place was. Great job by Dustin, 2nd Northeast finisher behind only Eddie Ches. Nice company.
But on to the race out front. All hope I had for the record went out the window when Cheserek sat back the first mile and waited to see what Futsum would do, so then it was just on to who would win the title. The two battled it out hard core over the whole stretch with a huge move at the hill, probably the fastest I have seen anyone take that hill since Matt Withrow.
That being said the time wasn't all that fast. Verzbicas ran 14:59 the year before basically walking the last stretch and having run a horrible conditioned course at NXN just a week prior. So maybe I have to rethink Cheserek as the greatest XC runner of my generation. LV is still pretty darn good.
Come track we will see what kind of gears Cheserek has to go after Lukas's records and chase down marks like 8:30 and 4:00 and 14:00, each more likely than the mark prior.
13:37, 8:29, and 3:53. All pretty legit, but the way Cheserek ran this year, in the right race he could scare some of these.
And heck if not, he's got a whole other year after this.
Somebody get me a birth certificate please.
-train
PS I'm working on a rankings board for the top 50 XC runners over the past 6 years (since I started following the sport) for the PA boys. I'll hear some opinions and such and you all can let me know what you think before/during/after I finish the process. Keep in touch and get pumped because now it's officially track season.
Indoor Season
Here's the thing to remember folks, things aren't going to be fast right away. I mean the SQS is only around 2 flat for the 800 so you can't expect too many guys in December to straight kill it. It's about winning races and beating people at this point.
Looking over the states times its interesting to see where times have been sped up and where things are slow. For starters, making the 3k at states is tough man. 9 flat on a flat track is crazy fast, I know 9:30s for 32 doesn't seem that fast, but you have understand most years at the state championships on a bank track its hard to find 8 guys who are way under 9. The DMR time I think has been made a little easier, 4x8 is about the same. But please PTFCA, don't have these strict standards and then change your standards halfway through the season and let teams in that haven't hit the time. It's not really fair.
Now I'm not trying to say that the first races are going to be boring, but let me just make some things clear. Gilmore opening meet of the season only ran 50.4. The winning 800 and Mile times were in the 4:40s and 2:03 range in the D1 TFCAofGP meet.
But to be fair guys in these races ended up being fast later on. Kodi Burns ran 2:13 first meet, 1:56 by the end of spring. Brad Rivera ran 2:06, by the end of indoors 1:58, by the end of outdoors 1:53. Austin Gregor, eventual 4 teens miler ran just 9:20 in the 3k. And of course Hong Cho ran 2:03 and finished 4th in his race. He went on to do some big things btw (1:50, state champ).
Drew Magaha lost to Nick Libbi in the mile 4:34-4:35.
So don't go too bold with big predictions time wise. But the winners will probably be big names. Maybe names on the rise.
MacCauley, Trimble, Gonzaga, Gilmore, CB West, Boyertown, Okezie, Timmins, Libbi, Wilson, Strath Haven and Great Valley
don't make too much out of a performance in the first meet.
Looking over the states times its interesting to see where times have been sped up and where things are slow. For starters, making the 3k at states is tough man. 9 flat on a flat track is crazy fast, I know 9:30s for 32 doesn't seem that fast, but you have understand most years at the state championships on a bank track its hard to find 8 guys who are way under 9. The DMR time I think has been made a little easier, 4x8 is about the same. But please PTFCA, don't have these strict standards and then change your standards halfway through the season and let teams in that haven't hit the time. It's not really fair.
Now I'm not trying to say that the first races are going to be boring, but let me just make some things clear. Gilmore opening meet of the season only ran 50.4. The winning 800 and Mile times were in the 4:40s and 2:03 range in the D1 TFCAofGP meet.
But to be fair guys in these races ended up being fast later on. Kodi Burns ran 2:13 first meet, 1:56 by the end of spring. Brad Rivera ran 2:06, by the end of indoors 1:58, by the end of outdoors 1:53. Austin Gregor, eventual 4 teens miler ran just 9:20 in the 3k. And of course Hong Cho ran 2:03 and finished 4th in his race. He went on to do some big things btw (1:50, state champ).
Drew Magaha lost to Nick Libbi in the mile 4:34-4:35.
So don't go too bold with big predictions time wise. But the winners will probably be big names. Maybe names on the rise.
MacCauley, Trimble, Gonzaga, Gilmore, CB West, Boyertown, Okezie, Timmins, Libbi, Wilson, Strath Haven and Great Valley
don't make too much out of a performance in the first meet.
College Running- Andrew Gourlay
So it is college application time and for runners that means we have to decide whether or not we want a school that we can run at, or a school with a club team, or a school where we just run on our own. My friend and former teammate Andrew Gourlay offered up his experience as a runner who attends LaSalle, but does not run for their team or any organized club. Here is what he had to say:
My high school running experience was not very typical. I graduated from Upper Dublin High School in 2009. I ran cross country, indoor, and outdoor every year. The highlight of my running career was by far my 438 mile as a sophomore. After that I didnt really do anything more. I was competitive enough to run in varsity races but didnt win any awards or districts or anything like that. Some of this can be attributed to lack of effort, distractions, lack of skill, and well, peeing blood.
My junior year of cross country I peed blood after one of the runs. As many people probably would, I was freaked out. We called the doctor and he said let me know if it happens again. It soon began happening very often and so I went to the doctor. He said it was a result of not drinking enough water. He said my bladder didnt have any water in it so the walls would bang up against each other and eventually bleed. So from then on I drank water like a mad man. I would load up on water before every run.
The problem would come and go but for the most part it was gone until winter of senior year when it kept happening. This time the doctor didnt know what was wrong and told me to stop running. It was a weird feeling. I was upset that what i had done all of high school was over but relieved in a sense. I still wanted to be on the team so I threw javelin and shotput and discus. All 135 pounds of me. I was awful at discus and shotput, getting last nearly every meet. I wasnt good by any means at javelin but was able to score points at league meets and feel part of the team. By the time I had surgery and got everything wrong with me fixed my high school running career was over.
The greatest thing about running in high school had nothing to do about running. I made my best friends through running. I looked forward to running everyday because I could hang out with my friends and joke around and what not. It made my love hate relationship with running much easier. That is the biggest reason why I chose to stay on the team and throw javelin and shot put, as bad as I was at that.
Out of high school I never thought about running in college. I enjoyed running in high school but wanted to concentrate on school work and knew that college running would be a huge commitment. When I would have off practice in high school or there was a break in between seasons I was so relieved and enjoyed it so much that I wanted all of college to be like that.
I ended up going to La Salle University. Two of my friends, who ran at Upper Dublin, went as well, Pat and Paul Reilly. Pat also chose not to run in college but Paul did and has been relatively successful as a DI athlete. Good job Paul.
I was fortunate enough to be part of a mistake. La Salle thought Pat was going to run so they put him in the track dorm. Pat and I decided to be roommates before school started so I was put in there to. Soon enough my best friends were all on the track team. I have become a track groupie. Many people consider me on the team. With a school so small like La Salle everyone knows everyone. At party's (YEA COLLEGE!) people will say oh yea youre on the track team. I know all their times, all the courses, all the team drama, all the opponents, and some consider me more on the team than many of the people that actually are. I even go to the track formal every year. I lucked out.
All of this is what makes me still run. Feelings of regret in high school of not trying hard enough and thinking what could have been make me wanna run now. Also, living with and basically being on the team here at LaSalle I feel obligated to run. I run with the team very often, when they arent working out or running to long. Seeing them running and hearing them talk about it make me wanna run even more. And of course, there is always the goal of staying in shape and not putting on the freshmen fifteen. ex: Ian McGrath.
Running at La Salle is difficult. Its in the city and the neighborhoods arent to great. So much so that my one friend got jumped while he was running. However, being the idiot I am I often run through the neighborhoods with my Ipod on, by myself. Probably not the smartest idea but what are ya gonna do. Around here if I am going for a long enough run I can run to Valley Green, the opposite side of where we would go in high school. However, most of my runs are at night and consist of me doing loops upon loops around campus and on the track. It gets annoying but its doable.
I have not done any races or competitions since high school. I would have liked to but i suffered my first ever legit injury in April when i sprained my ankle trying to be jordan on the basketball court. 6-7 months later and my ankle is still bothering me and will probably be for life. Although I just run "for fun" running now means a lot to me and this injury was devastating. I remember looking down at my ankle and thinking, when can i run again.
A few weeks ago i started running again and it was exhilarating. Running for the first time in 6 months was the most amazing feeling. Despite being out of running shape I was flying up hills and running as fast as I could. I felt it bad the next day but ran that day and the next day doing the same thing. As of now Ive slowed down and am trying to get back into shape. However, the ankle is still nagging and it sucks.
Running has become a big part of my life and I am thankful. I have made best friends that I will have for life from high school and now in college. If I can give any high school runners on advice on whether to run in college it would be this. Do whatever you want. Dont listen to anyone. if you wanna run in college, no matter your skill, do it. But if you dont, dont feel pressured to. Ill tell ya, not running in college is pretty great to. Long live etrain.
Gourlay
My high school running experience was not very typical. I graduated from Upper Dublin High School in 2009. I ran cross country, indoor, and outdoor every year. The highlight of my running career was by far my 438 mile as a sophomore. After that I didnt really do anything more. I was competitive enough to run in varsity races but didnt win any awards or districts or anything like that. Some of this can be attributed to lack of effort, distractions, lack of skill, and well, peeing blood.
My junior year of cross country I peed blood after one of the runs. As many people probably would, I was freaked out. We called the doctor and he said let me know if it happens again. It soon began happening very often and so I went to the doctor. He said it was a result of not drinking enough water. He said my bladder didnt have any water in it so the walls would bang up against each other and eventually bleed. So from then on I drank water like a mad man. I would load up on water before every run.
The problem would come and go but for the most part it was gone until winter of senior year when it kept happening. This time the doctor didnt know what was wrong and told me to stop running. It was a weird feeling. I was upset that what i had done all of high school was over but relieved in a sense. I still wanted to be on the team so I threw javelin and shotput and discus. All 135 pounds of me. I was awful at discus and shotput, getting last nearly every meet. I wasnt good by any means at javelin but was able to score points at league meets and feel part of the team. By the time I had surgery and got everything wrong with me fixed my high school running career was over.
The greatest thing about running in high school had nothing to do about running. I made my best friends through running. I looked forward to running everyday because I could hang out with my friends and joke around and what not. It made my love hate relationship with running much easier. That is the biggest reason why I chose to stay on the team and throw javelin and shot put, as bad as I was at that.
Out of high school I never thought about running in college. I enjoyed running in high school but wanted to concentrate on school work and knew that college running would be a huge commitment. When I would have off practice in high school or there was a break in between seasons I was so relieved and enjoyed it so much that I wanted all of college to be like that.
I ended up going to La Salle University. Two of my friends, who ran at Upper Dublin, went as well, Pat and Paul Reilly. Pat also chose not to run in college but Paul did and has been relatively successful as a DI athlete. Good job Paul.
I was fortunate enough to be part of a mistake. La Salle thought Pat was going to run so they put him in the track dorm. Pat and I decided to be roommates before school started so I was put in there to. Soon enough my best friends were all on the track team. I have become a track groupie. Many people consider me on the team. With a school so small like La Salle everyone knows everyone. At party's (YEA COLLEGE!) people will say oh yea youre on the track team. I know all their times, all the courses, all the team drama, all the opponents, and some consider me more on the team than many of the people that actually are. I even go to the track formal every year. I lucked out.
All of this is what makes me still run. Feelings of regret in high school of not trying hard enough and thinking what could have been make me wanna run now. Also, living with and basically being on the team here at LaSalle I feel obligated to run. I run with the team very often, when they arent working out or running to long. Seeing them running and hearing them talk about it make me wanna run even more. And of course, there is always the goal of staying in shape and not putting on the freshmen fifteen. ex: Ian McGrath.
Running at La Salle is difficult. Its in the city and the neighborhoods arent to great. So much so that my one friend got jumped while he was running. However, being the idiot I am I often run through the neighborhoods with my Ipod on, by myself. Probably not the smartest idea but what are ya gonna do. Around here if I am going for a long enough run I can run to Valley Green, the opposite side of where we would go in high school. However, most of my runs are at night and consist of me doing loops upon loops around campus and on the track. It gets annoying but its doable.
I have not done any races or competitions since high school. I would have liked to but i suffered my first ever legit injury in April when i sprained my ankle trying to be jordan on the basketball court. 6-7 months later and my ankle is still bothering me and will probably be for life. Although I just run "for fun" running now means a lot to me and this injury was devastating. I remember looking down at my ankle and thinking, when can i run again.
A few weeks ago i started running again and it was exhilarating. Running for the first time in 6 months was the most amazing feeling. Despite being out of running shape I was flying up hills and running as fast as I could. I felt it bad the next day but ran that day and the next day doing the same thing. As of now Ive slowed down and am trying to get back into shape. However, the ankle is still nagging and it sucks.
Running has become a big part of my life and I am thankful. I have made best friends that I will have for life from high school and now in college. If I can give any high school runners on advice on whether to run in college it would be this. Do whatever you want. Dont listen to anyone. if you wanna run in college, no matter your skill, do it. But if you dont, dont feel pressured to. Ill tell ya, not running in college is pretty great to. Long live etrain.
Gourlay
Specifics-3000m
Well folks it may be my birthday today, but that does not mean I'm taking the day off. It appeared from my recent research that some people want to know my thoughts more specifically about the events this indoor season. So let's see what I can do.
Purely by best outdoor 3200m PR these are the top returners:
1. Dustin Wilson 9:02
2. Andrew Kuchta 9:16
3. Quinn Devlin 9:20
4. Sam Hibbs 9:22
5. Brendan Shearn 9:23
6. Connor Strynkowski 9:24
7. Logan Steiner 9:24
8. Ned Willig 9:28
9. Jeff Groh 9:30
10. Barrett Kemp 9:33
Also for the 3200m/3000m, XC season is definitely a good indicator of how fast you can run. For as long as I can remember the state champion in the 3200m went on to run under 9:20 in the 3200m if they stayed healthy. So here is a reminder of my top 10 rankings for the end of the XC season:
1. Dustin Wilson
2. Conner Quinn
3. Dan Jaskowak
4. Drew Magaha
5. Brendan Shearn
6. Logan Steiner
7. Brett Kelly
8. Luke Jones
9. Dan Savage
10. Tom Coyle
And also an important factor worth noting, not all the best guys outdoor are fit indoors, so here are the top 10 returning 3k times from an indoor season ago.
1. Dustin Wilson 8:52
2. Aaron Wilkinson 8:57
3. Logan Steiner 8:58
4. Ned Willig 9:00
5. Brett Kelly 9:01
6. Conner Quinn 9:03
7. Sami Aziz 9:04
8. Owen Glatts 9:05
9. Brian Shields 9:05
10. George Kelly 9:06
There's a boatload of returners in the 9:05-9:10 range which will make this very interesting.
So here's what I got for you preview wise folks.
Dustin Wilson is definitely the class of the field just as he was the class of the state a year. Running Footlocker will certainly hinder his training, but enough to put him down enough pegs to lose against what I see as his competition.
However, if Willig or Magaha were to move up and run the 3k fresh I think either of them could beat Wilson head to head. Wilson has more strength but if the race is at all tactical the kickers could take home the gold. That being said, I'm assuming Willig is going DMR, maybe the mile too, but definitely not the 3k, and if Magaha chooses to try a double (and I think there's not much of a point to not doubling back) he will go mile-8.
Conner Quinn is the defending state champ and has a nice 9:03 on his resume from a year ago, so its hard to count the guy out of being in the mix out front.
Aaron Wilkinson is the top returner from indoor states. Yes, you heard me right. Not a big name, but he is a very talented runner and was ready to go indoors a season ago. Hopefully he is ready to match that this year.
The AA guys and the guys like Jaskowak are tough to predict because quite frankly, I don't think a lot of them will have indoor seasons. Its just what I think. That being said, the talent is there to really make something happen.
Brett Kelly had one of the best last three races in the state in XC and he is always good indoors. Maybe too good indoors so that his outdoors suffers, but very good indoors. Kelly doesn't have a team and relays to weigh him down this season so if he chooses to go for the 3k I wouldn't be suprised if he runs in the 8:40s.
And now we get to the trickiest part of the program, the current Jrs and where they fall in to place in the whole 3k scene. Quinn, as mentioned before, should be very good. MacCauley is going to be in the mix as well as far as I see it. Outside chance he is like Sam Bernitt a year ago and snags all state and runs in the 8:50-8:40 range. Savage of course is talented as well. O'Hara does a lot of work with relays, and they have a good team, so Savage may be hindered by that. Ultimately though, it seems like he will make it to states and compete with the guys for a medal.
I really like Max Norris for this indoor season, I'm high on him after a great XC season with the exception of one (admittedly, the most important) race at states. Norris has got great speed of a 4:19 mile and if he choses to move up to the 3k and stay away from Willig and Magaha, he could do some damage. Really Norris could damage in either race.
Harriman, Ferruzzi, Coyle (think he will run the mile if anything), Kunzweiler (another 800-mile type), Emery could all be factors in this race as well.
And believe it or not I haven't touched on half the talent pool in the state. Out west Steiner and Kuchta are the class of the field, but Kennedy and Runco could both surprise with very fast times. Heck, George Kelly is a top 10 returner, what's to say he won't be under 9 minutes and surprise some people. I think Runco will probably opt for the mile, but he proved he's a force this past XC season, so it wouldn't surprise me if he dropped a fast 3k.
Plus we got the pair of Altoona guys who can mix it up indoors. They both skipped out on Footlockers to get a head start on training and Altoona has a pretty good resume of running fast indoors (see Endress, Wade or Gehret, Brady or the DMR in general).
And yes I'm sure some people are misssing from the list of names here but cmon people there's only so much I can do.
Finally, I figured its only right to do some rankings, I'm going to make only a top 10 list and yes some very good, talented runners will be left off. I'm only going to put runners who I think will focus on the 3k on this list so guys like Runco, Norris, Willig, Magaha are all out for right now. Also left off the guys who I don't think are running indoors like Shearn, Jaskowak, Strynkowski, etc. Therefore, here's what I got:
1. Wilson
2. Steiner
3. Kelly
4. Quinn
5. Hibbs
6. Wilkinson
7. Kuchta
8. MacCauley
9. Savage
10. Mountain
worth noting: Devlin? not sure if he's running indoors yet, so just opted to leave him off. Definitely think the kid can compete for the win/well earned second if Wilson is in prime time, if he's healthy, but that's kind of a big if.
Purely by best outdoor 3200m PR these are the top returners:
1. Dustin Wilson 9:02
2. Andrew Kuchta 9:16
3. Quinn Devlin 9:20
4. Sam Hibbs 9:22
5. Brendan Shearn 9:23
6. Connor Strynkowski 9:24
7. Logan Steiner 9:24
8. Ned Willig 9:28
9. Jeff Groh 9:30
10. Barrett Kemp 9:33
Also for the 3200m/3000m, XC season is definitely a good indicator of how fast you can run. For as long as I can remember the state champion in the 3200m went on to run under 9:20 in the 3200m if they stayed healthy. So here is a reminder of my top 10 rankings for the end of the XC season:
1. Dustin Wilson
2. Conner Quinn
3. Dan Jaskowak
4. Drew Magaha
5. Brendan Shearn
6. Logan Steiner
7. Brett Kelly
8. Luke Jones
9. Dan Savage
10. Tom Coyle
And also an important factor worth noting, not all the best guys outdoor are fit indoors, so here are the top 10 returning 3k times from an indoor season ago.
1. Dustin Wilson 8:52
2. Aaron Wilkinson 8:57
3. Logan Steiner 8:58
4. Ned Willig 9:00
5. Brett Kelly 9:01
6. Conner Quinn 9:03
7. Sami Aziz 9:04
8. Owen Glatts 9:05
9. Brian Shields 9:05
10. George Kelly 9:06
There's a boatload of returners in the 9:05-9:10 range which will make this very interesting.
So here's what I got for you preview wise folks.
Dustin Wilson is definitely the class of the field just as he was the class of the state a year. Running Footlocker will certainly hinder his training, but enough to put him down enough pegs to lose against what I see as his competition.
However, if Willig or Magaha were to move up and run the 3k fresh I think either of them could beat Wilson head to head. Wilson has more strength but if the race is at all tactical the kickers could take home the gold. That being said, I'm assuming Willig is going DMR, maybe the mile too, but definitely not the 3k, and if Magaha chooses to try a double (and I think there's not much of a point to not doubling back) he will go mile-8.
Conner Quinn is the defending state champ and has a nice 9:03 on his resume from a year ago, so its hard to count the guy out of being in the mix out front.
Aaron Wilkinson is the top returner from indoor states. Yes, you heard me right. Not a big name, but he is a very talented runner and was ready to go indoors a season ago. Hopefully he is ready to match that this year.
The AA guys and the guys like Jaskowak are tough to predict because quite frankly, I don't think a lot of them will have indoor seasons. Its just what I think. That being said, the talent is there to really make something happen.
Brett Kelly had one of the best last three races in the state in XC and he is always good indoors. Maybe too good indoors so that his outdoors suffers, but very good indoors. Kelly doesn't have a team and relays to weigh him down this season so if he chooses to go for the 3k I wouldn't be suprised if he runs in the 8:40s.
And now we get to the trickiest part of the program, the current Jrs and where they fall in to place in the whole 3k scene. Quinn, as mentioned before, should be very good. MacCauley is going to be in the mix as well as far as I see it. Outside chance he is like Sam Bernitt a year ago and snags all state and runs in the 8:50-8:40 range. Savage of course is talented as well. O'Hara does a lot of work with relays, and they have a good team, so Savage may be hindered by that. Ultimately though, it seems like he will make it to states and compete with the guys for a medal.
I really like Max Norris for this indoor season, I'm high on him after a great XC season with the exception of one (admittedly, the most important) race at states. Norris has got great speed of a 4:19 mile and if he choses to move up to the 3k and stay away from Willig and Magaha, he could do some damage. Really Norris could damage in either race.
Harriman, Ferruzzi, Coyle (think he will run the mile if anything), Kunzweiler (another 800-mile type), Emery could all be factors in this race as well.
And believe it or not I haven't touched on half the talent pool in the state. Out west Steiner and Kuchta are the class of the field, but Kennedy and Runco could both surprise with very fast times. Heck, George Kelly is a top 10 returner, what's to say he won't be under 9 minutes and surprise some people. I think Runco will probably opt for the mile, but he proved he's a force this past XC season, so it wouldn't surprise me if he dropped a fast 3k.
Plus we got the pair of Altoona guys who can mix it up indoors. They both skipped out on Footlockers to get a head start on training and Altoona has a pretty good resume of running fast indoors (see Endress, Wade or Gehret, Brady or the DMR in general).
And yes I'm sure some people are misssing from the list of names here but cmon people there's only so much I can do.
Finally, I figured its only right to do some rankings, I'm going to make only a top 10 list and yes some very good, talented runners will be left off. I'm only going to put runners who I think will focus on the 3k on this list so guys like Runco, Norris, Willig, Magaha are all out for right now. Also left off the guys who I don't think are running indoors like Shearn, Jaskowak, Strynkowski, etc. Therefore, here's what I got:
1. Wilson
2. Steiner
3. Kelly
4. Quinn
5. Hibbs
6. Wilkinson
7. Kuchta
8. MacCauley
9. Savage
10. Mountain
worth noting: Devlin? not sure if he's running indoors yet, so just opted to leave him off. Definitely think the kid can compete for the win/well earned second if Wilson is in prime time, if he's healthy, but that's kind of a big if.
Footlocker Northeast
Yes, I was there. I was there to support my good friend Francis Ferruzzi who did a great job redeeming his disappointing, sickness influenced finish at states (and also my girlfriend lives 5 minutes from the course so that was kind of convenient). But I'm not hear to talk about my girlfriend (I know 2 references in the last 3 posts, you don't care) or my buddy Francis Ferruzzi (32nd at the meet, with just 35 minutes to warm up after a 2.5 car ride, props, that's all I'm gonna say).
First off congrats to the girls. I didn't see their race, but they did an awesome job representing PA. Angel is a women on a mission this season, and will try to dive into Neely Spence territory out in CA.
But on to what I know: the men. So some of our boys went out a little too hard. Guys like Brendan Shearn and a kid from Upper Dublin whose name I said I wouldn't mention, sat back in about last place for 400m and let the other guys burn themselves out and it paid off. Meanwhile, Hibbs, Quinn, and Jaskowak really got eaten up by the hills. Hibbs really died hard, it was a tough end to his season, but he may just be burnt out from all the training. It would explain a lot. Hopefully he rests up and is ready for track.
As for Quinn he was up in the mix, and as the PA state champ you can't blame him for trying, but it just wasn't his day. Even Pondel ended up coming back to eat him up for a medal at the end of the race (nice race by Austin, very nice stretch run to his season which he spent in Jaskowak's shadow).
Speaking of Jaskowak, he really went for it out front, but unfortunately you don't make the trip to nationals for being in the top 10 2k into the race, but he held on fairly nicely and finished 18th in the region. That's truly fantastic for this kid. He had a great season in a league the same as Jacob Kildoo who was a pretty darn good runner in his own right. Jaskowak really proved me wrong over the course of this season and I give him a lot of credit.
Solid race for Shearn. Not amazing, but he ran smart and it paid of in a top 20 finish the region. He will be one of the top returns next year along with big Dan, and this experience on the course should come in handy. Great season for Shearn, mixing it up with the top AAA guys at the region.
How about Brett Kelly? I was knocking on him kind of hard after his slow start (not as hard as some people but he definitely dropped like a rock), and by the time the big meets rolled around he was on a completely different level. The top PIAA finisher at the meet. Wow. Great job, great hill runner.
And lastly, gotta talk about my boy Dustin Wilson. He ran the race very smart, hanging back moving up the ranks and being in posistion at the right times. He was in 2nd place when I saw him with 800 to go, and although he did get dropped at the end in the sprint to the finish, he showed a lot of heart, grit and determination which will pay off at Nats. He can mix it up with anybody in the Northeast region based off this race .... besides Ed Cheserek of course.
Privelged to be able to have seen that kid run. The easiest 15:20 you might ever see on Sunken Meadow. Unless Bekele goes there often for long runs. Cheserek is very, very good, not that I needed to see him in person to know that, but it is much cooler to see it.
I'll say it now, he's winning Nationals and he's gonna scare the course record in the 14:30s. He's not afraid of anyone or any time. He just runs fast and runs to win.
-train
First off congrats to the girls. I didn't see their race, but they did an awesome job representing PA. Angel is a women on a mission this season, and will try to dive into Neely Spence territory out in CA.
But on to what I know: the men. So some of our boys went out a little too hard. Guys like Brendan Shearn and a kid from Upper Dublin whose name I said I wouldn't mention, sat back in about last place for 400m and let the other guys burn themselves out and it paid off. Meanwhile, Hibbs, Quinn, and Jaskowak really got eaten up by the hills. Hibbs really died hard, it was a tough end to his season, but he may just be burnt out from all the training. It would explain a lot. Hopefully he rests up and is ready for track.
As for Quinn he was up in the mix, and as the PA state champ you can't blame him for trying, but it just wasn't his day. Even Pondel ended up coming back to eat him up for a medal at the end of the race (nice race by Austin, very nice stretch run to his season which he spent in Jaskowak's shadow).
Speaking of Jaskowak, he really went for it out front, but unfortunately you don't make the trip to nationals for being in the top 10 2k into the race, but he held on fairly nicely and finished 18th in the region. That's truly fantastic for this kid. He had a great season in a league the same as Jacob Kildoo who was a pretty darn good runner in his own right. Jaskowak really proved me wrong over the course of this season and I give him a lot of credit.
Solid race for Shearn. Not amazing, but he ran smart and it paid of in a top 20 finish the region. He will be one of the top returns next year along with big Dan, and this experience on the course should come in handy. Great season for Shearn, mixing it up with the top AAA guys at the region.
How about Brett Kelly? I was knocking on him kind of hard after his slow start (not as hard as some people but he definitely dropped like a rock), and by the time the big meets rolled around he was on a completely different level. The top PIAA finisher at the meet. Wow. Great job, great hill runner.
And lastly, gotta talk about my boy Dustin Wilson. He ran the race very smart, hanging back moving up the ranks and being in posistion at the right times. He was in 2nd place when I saw him with 800 to go, and although he did get dropped at the end in the sprint to the finish, he showed a lot of heart, grit and determination which will pay off at Nats. He can mix it up with anybody in the Northeast region based off this race .... besides Ed Cheserek of course.
Privelged to be able to have seen that kid run. The easiest 15:20 you might ever see on Sunken Meadow. Unless Bekele goes there often for long runs. Cheserek is very, very good, not that I needed to see him in person to know that, but it is much cooler to see it.
I'll say it now, he's winning Nationals and he's gonna scare the course record in the 14:30s. He's not afraid of anyone or any time. He just runs fast and runs to win.
-train
11 Questions
Etrain11. 11 questions. Works for me. I figured I'd offer up a few questions I'm eager to get answered in this indoor track season. So here we go.
1. What can we expect from Alex Moran?
The guy was a straight stud last year, didn't perform as high as I thought he might at indoor states but he ran very quick times from cross through to outdoors, and even put a bit of a scare in Ryan Gil at the Baldwin Invite. But Moran took a bit of a step back this XC season. That isn't always negative (see Mike Palmisano), but it isn't always postive (see Vince McNally)
2. How much do Abington and CB West have left after their record setting winter last year?
Abington loses all their big guns, as does CB West with guys like Moran, Manley, Bee, McGarvey, Taylor, Watson and Smith all moving on to the big leagues at college. BUT most top relays end up surprising the next year even when they have nothing left, how about CB South who stayed competitive even after losing every piece of their relay not named Mallon. Abington tends to find new kids to emerge as studs in the 4 and the 8 every year, and I anticipate a similar thing again this season.
3. How do the AA guys factor into indoors?
Most years these schools don't have a big impact. They just don't have big enough programs and budgets to have successful indoor seasons. But this year the AA talent is especially deep, so they could make things interesting if they find their way to Penn State in March.
4. How will Sam Hibbs and Conner Quinn respond to their XC seasons?
One guys stock is way up, the other is way down. Hmmm. Ironically I got their stock flipping back come indoors. Quinn has always been more of a cross guy than track (check last years results for confirmation). Hibbs hasn't had a real indoor season yet in his career, but he's got talent and the end of his XC season certainly didn't show his potential.
5. Will any PA guys make Millrose?
Moran, Willig, Wilson, and of course Magaha are all in the mix to make it to the big dance in New York. It may not be on the cool Madison Square Garden track anymore, but that doesn't mean its not a big deal to make it to this meet. Magaha may get in with an autobid, and Willig definitely has a shot if he goes for it.
6. How fast can Dustin Wilson run without the relays?
Last year he went for the DMR. Nice gesture, but it ended up costing him possibly state gold and definitely state hardware. This year he's not tied down by anything except for his trip to San Diego. He could go for the mile and the 3k which would be interesting, but my bet is he goes for the 3k and hammers out something pretty quick. 5k is his real event so at NBN, that's where stuff will go down.
7. How will the state XC champs do in track?
Yeah I almost started writing this about like 5 other teams before I remember that it was North Penn that was state champs in the fall. I know, we are all still surprised by this, but they are always good at track and they return a lot of pieces from a very solid 4x8 a year ago. Trimble is one of the big picks for a break out track season and look at the history of North Penn 800 runners for proof.
8. Who is Brad Rivera?
I'll tell you who he is, he's a 1:53 800 runner from district's last year. Remember the name.
9. Who will be a big sleeper out West?
How about another Penn Hills 800 runner? They usually do pretty well and Will Baily has been doing pretty well since last spring. He's a very fast 1:53 split kind of guy with big potential to run fast like Rumble and Anderson.
10. How will the PCL fair indoors?
There are always a lot of solid PCL performances indoor, O'Hara is obviously a very good team, but lets face it this question centers around Tom Coyle and LaSalle. Coyle seems to have taken the next step this year as a top runner. He was leading a lot of the states race and is unafraid of the big moment. LaSalle has had their share of big DMR moments in the past as well (see Dan Lowry, current all american) and Andrew Stone is a stud along side Coyle. PCL doesn't play.
11. Megaha?
There have been a lot of knocks on this guy and heck most of the time I've thrown the first stone, but he proved a lot of doubters wrong this past fall with a big XC season. I will be the first one to say I was wrong. Last indoors was kind of a big letdown. He didn't perform the way I thought he would and I was big on his stock. But like XC, I think he will turn things around and prove some doubters wrong. Magaha should in theory run close to the state records in the 800, mile, and maybe even the 3k. It's a matter of what Ned Willig does really. But I heard Ned Willig is going DMR again. So .... will Magaha really run all that fast all by himself out front? Hey I just ask the questions, I don't have the answers ....
1. What can we expect from Alex Moran?
The guy was a straight stud last year, didn't perform as high as I thought he might at indoor states but he ran very quick times from cross through to outdoors, and even put a bit of a scare in Ryan Gil at the Baldwin Invite. But Moran took a bit of a step back this XC season. That isn't always negative (see Mike Palmisano), but it isn't always postive (see Vince McNally)
2. How much do Abington and CB West have left after their record setting winter last year?
Abington loses all their big guns, as does CB West with guys like Moran, Manley, Bee, McGarvey, Taylor, Watson and Smith all moving on to the big leagues at college. BUT most top relays end up surprising the next year even when they have nothing left, how about CB South who stayed competitive even after losing every piece of their relay not named Mallon. Abington tends to find new kids to emerge as studs in the 4 and the 8 every year, and I anticipate a similar thing again this season.
3. How do the AA guys factor into indoors?
Most years these schools don't have a big impact. They just don't have big enough programs and budgets to have successful indoor seasons. But this year the AA talent is especially deep, so they could make things interesting if they find their way to Penn State in March.
4. How will Sam Hibbs and Conner Quinn respond to their XC seasons?
One guys stock is way up, the other is way down. Hmmm. Ironically I got their stock flipping back come indoors. Quinn has always been more of a cross guy than track (check last years results for confirmation). Hibbs hasn't had a real indoor season yet in his career, but he's got talent and the end of his XC season certainly didn't show his potential.
5. Will any PA guys make Millrose?
Moran, Willig, Wilson, and of course Magaha are all in the mix to make it to the big dance in New York. It may not be on the cool Madison Square Garden track anymore, but that doesn't mean its not a big deal to make it to this meet. Magaha may get in with an autobid, and Willig definitely has a shot if he goes for it.
6. How fast can Dustin Wilson run without the relays?
Last year he went for the DMR. Nice gesture, but it ended up costing him possibly state gold and definitely state hardware. This year he's not tied down by anything except for his trip to San Diego. He could go for the mile and the 3k which would be interesting, but my bet is he goes for the 3k and hammers out something pretty quick. 5k is his real event so at NBN, that's where stuff will go down.
7. How will the state XC champs do in track?
Yeah I almost started writing this about like 5 other teams before I remember that it was North Penn that was state champs in the fall. I know, we are all still surprised by this, but they are always good at track and they return a lot of pieces from a very solid 4x8 a year ago. Trimble is one of the big picks for a break out track season and look at the history of North Penn 800 runners for proof.
8. Who is Brad Rivera?
I'll tell you who he is, he's a 1:53 800 runner from district's last year. Remember the name.
9. Who will be a big sleeper out West?
How about another Penn Hills 800 runner? They usually do pretty well and Will Baily has been doing pretty well since last spring. He's a very fast 1:53 split kind of guy with big potential to run fast like Rumble and Anderson.
10. How will the PCL fair indoors?
There are always a lot of solid PCL performances indoor, O'Hara is obviously a very good team, but lets face it this question centers around Tom Coyle and LaSalle. Coyle seems to have taken the next step this year as a top runner. He was leading a lot of the states race and is unafraid of the big moment. LaSalle has had their share of big DMR moments in the past as well (see Dan Lowry, current all american) and Andrew Stone is a stud along side Coyle. PCL doesn't play.
11. Megaha?
There have been a lot of knocks on this guy and heck most of the time I've thrown the first stone, but he proved a lot of doubters wrong this past fall with a big XC season. I will be the first one to say I was wrong. Last indoors was kind of a big letdown. He didn't perform the way I thought he would and I was big on his stock. But like XC, I think he will turn things around and prove some doubters wrong. Magaha should in theory run close to the state records in the 800, mile, and maybe even the 3k. It's a matter of what Ned Willig does really. But I heard Ned Willig is going DMR again. So .... will Magaha really run all that fast all by himself out front? Hey I just ask the questions, I don't have the answers ....
So Here's the Deal
Well readers, I would love to sit here and say that over the past few weeks I have been extremely busy, or there has been nothing to talk about, or things have not been exciting if your a blogger of Pennsylvania High School cross country and track and field, but that is sadly not the case. I do not have a large amount of school work (a fact which I have bragged to my girlfriend about on many occasions) and there is plenty to talk about in the world of PA running (Dustin Wilson, the girls ... I mean admittedly I don't talk about girls very much but hey they did awesome).
No, unfortunately the sad truth is I lost a lot of my dedication this past month when some sad news struck me. My google adsense account, which allows me to make money just for blogging has been shut down due to suspected invalid click activity. As much as I would like to fight this and stand up and claim that this is an outrage and things like that, the fact of the matter is its true. I violated my contract with google, and I am now paying the price. A price of approximately 120 dollars so it could be worse I suppose.
As much as I hate to admit it the fact that blogging was not a job anymore but merely a hobby got to me and it slowed this site down to a complete stand still. A barren wasteland that formerly was hub of talk and hits.
But I remember something. I didn't start this blog for the money, I didn't even start worrying about the money until I actually started making some. And I can't fake views. I can fake clicks but the views were there by the boat loads. A lot more fans had been coming to this site. I was getting feedback from all over, and heck, it felt great. And that is payment enough. It just took me sometime to remember all this I suppose. Gotta thank Will Lowery, a kid from Vermont who for some reason continues to check my blog. If he is noticing the thing isn't being updated than gosh, this is bad.
So I promise you folks, I turn 20 tomorrow and I have no intention of letting my next year of life begin as a washed up has been of blogging. I'm still etrain, and I am back baby. Get ready for a blog explosion.
-train
No, unfortunately the sad truth is I lost a lot of my dedication this past month when some sad news struck me. My google adsense account, which allows me to make money just for blogging has been shut down due to suspected invalid click activity. As much as I would like to fight this and stand up and claim that this is an outrage and things like that, the fact of the matter is its true. I violated my contract with google, and I am now paying the price. A price of approximately 120 dollars so it could be worse I suppose.
As much as I hate to admit it the fact that blogging was not a job anymore but merely a hobby got to me and it slowed this site down to a complete stand still. A barren wasteland that formerly was hub of talk and hits.
But I remember something. I didn't start this blog for the money, I didn't even start worrying about the money until I actually started making some. And I can't fake views. I can fake clicks but the views were there by the boat loads. A lot more fans had been coming to this site. I was getting feedback from all over, and heck, it felt great. And that is payment enough. It just took me sometime to remember all this I suppose. Gotta thank Will Lowery, a kid from Vermont who for some reason continues to check my blog. If he is noticing the thing isn't being updated than gosh, this is bad.
So I promise you folks, I turn 20 tomorrow and I have no intention of letting my next year of life begin as a washed up has been of blogging. I'm still etrain, and I am back baby. Get ready for a blog explosion.
-train
Final Top 50 Rankings 11/14
So here are my final top 50 rankings, mostly just in order of finish at states with a few slight variations. States is the ultimate trump card at the end of the day. The number in parantheses next to the rank indicates the rank I can had for this individual on my first rankings over the summer.
1. (1) Dustin Wilson, Sr Chesnut Hill Academy (Ind) Footlocker
2. (13) Conner Quinn, Jr Hatboro Horsham (1) Footlocker?
3. (31) Dan Jaskowak, Jr Grove City (10) Footlocker?
4. (15) Drew Magaha, Sr Upper Moreland (1) Done?
5. (12) Brendan Shearn, Jr North Skuykill (11 AA) Footlocker
6. (5) Logan Steiner, Sr North Allegheny (7) Footlocker?
7. (8) Brett Kelly, Sr Boyertown (1) Footlocker?
8. (27) Luke Jones, Jr Elk Lake (2 AA)
9. (34) Dan Savage, Jr O'Hara (12) NXN?
10. (N/A) Tom Coyle, Jr LaSalle (12) Footlocker?
11. (N/A) Brent Kennedy, So Kiski Area (7)
12. (6) Ned Willig, Sr Great Valley (1) Done?
13. (32) Connor Harriman, Jr Pennsbury (1)
14. (N/A) Sean Burke, Sr Abington Heights (2)
15. (44) Dylan Mountain, Sr Altoona (6) Done
16. (40) Mike Billotta, Sr O'Hara (12) NXN?
17. (2) Sam Hibbs, Sr Hatboro Horsham (1)
18. (3) Alex Moran, Sr Mt. Lebanon (1)
19. (11) Aaron Wilkinson, Sr Valley View (2) Footlocker
20. (17) Korey Replogle, Sr Altoona (6) Done
21. (N/A) Rico Galassi, Jr Holy Cross (2 AA)
22. (N/A) Alec Kunzweler, Jr Cumberland Valley (3)
23. (N/A) Mike Runco, Sr Pittsburg Central Catholic (7)
24. (23) Sam Williams, Jr Northeast Bradford (4 AA)
25. (10) Ryan Smathers, Jr North East (10 AA)
26. (43) Barrett Kemp, Jr Oswayo Valley (9 AA)
27. (N/A) Zach Israel, Sr Holy Ghost Prep (1)
28. (14) Jack MacCauley, Jr North Penn (1)
29. (19) Jeff Groh, So Lower Dauphin (3)
30. (18) Max Norris, Jr Harriton (1)
31. (30) Curt Jewett, Jr Northeast Bradford (4 AA)
32. (N/A) Chris Culley, Jr Moon Area (7)
33. (21) Nate Tallada, Sr Saegertown (10 AA)
34. (N/A) Ean DiSilvio, Jr Allderdice (8)
35. (48) Tim Appman, Sr North Allegheny (7)
36. (N/A) Austin Pondel, Jr Corry Area (10)
37. (N/A) Caleb Wakeley, So Shaler Area (7)
38. (N/A) Tony Russel, So West Chester Henderson (1)
39. (N/A) Vinny Todaro, Jr Big Spring (3)
40. (9) Andrew Kuchta, Sr Baldwin (7)
41. (39) Lawtin Tellin, Sr Mt Lebanon (7)
42. (N/A) Josef Dipietrantonio, Sr Beaver Area (7 AA)
43. (N/A) Aaron Valerosa, Jr Towanda (4 AA)
44. (38) Dan Davis, Sr North Penn (1)
45. (N/A) Ryan Hertzog, Jr Southwestern (3)
46. (N/A) John Felts, Sr Red Land (3)
47. (N/A) Jordan Jackson, Jr Wellsboro Area (4 AA)
48. (N/A) Ernie Pitone, Jr O'Hara (12)
49. (N/A) Ross Wilson, So CR North (1)
50. (42) Chris Trimble, Sr North Penn (1)
1. (1) Dustin Wilson, Sr Chesnut Hill Academy (Ind) Footlocker
2. (13) Conner Quinn, Jr Hatboro Horsham (1) Footlocker?
3. (31) Dan Jaskowak, Jr Grove City (10) Footlocker?
4. (15) Drew Magaha, Sr Upper Moreland (1) Done?
5. (12) Brendan Shearn, Jr North Skuykill (11 AA) Footlocker
6. (5) Logan Steiner, Sr North Allegheny (7) Footlocker?
7. (8) Brett Kelly, Sr Boyertown (1) Footlocker?
8. (27) Luke Jones, Jr Elk Lake (2 AA)
9. (34) Dan Savage, Jr O'Hara (12) NXN?
10. (N/A) Tom Coyle, Jr LaSalle (12) Footlocker?
11. (N/A) Brent Kennedy, So Kiski Area (7)
12. (6) Ned Willig, Sr Great Valley (1) Done?
13. (32) Connor Harriman, Jr Pennsbury (1)
14. (N/A) Sean Burke, Sr Abington Heights (2)
15. (44) Dylan Mountain, Sr Altoona (6) Done
16. (40) Mike Billotta, Sr O'Hara (12) NXN?
17. (2) Sam Hibbs, Sr Hatboro Horsham (1)
18. (3) Alex Moran, Sr Mt. Lebanon (1)
19. (11) Aaron Wilkinson, Sr Valley View (2) Footlocker
20. (17) Korey Replogle, Sr Altoona (6) Done
21. (N/A) Rico Galassi, Jr Holy Cross (2 AA)
22. (N/A) Alec Kunzweler, Jr Cumberland Valley (3)
23. (N/A) Mike Runco, Sr Pittsburg Central Catholic (7)
24. (23) Sam Williams, Jr Northeast Bradford (4 AA)
25. (10) Ryan Smathers, Jr North East (10 AA)
26. (43) Barrett Kemp, Jr Oswayo Valley (9 AA)
27. (N/A) Zach Israel, Sr Holy Ghost Prep (1)
28. (14) Jack MacCauley, Jr North Penn (1)
29. (19) Jeff Groh, So Lower Dauphin (3)
30. (18) Max Norris, Jr Harriton (1)
31. (30) Curt Jewett, Jr Northeast Bradford (4 AA)
32. (N/A) Chris Culley, Jr Moon Area (7)
33. (21) Nate Tallada, Sr Saegertown (10 AA)
34. (N/A) Ean DiSilvio, Jr Allderdice (8)
35. (48) Tim Appman, Sr North Allegheny (7)
36. (N/A) Austin Pondel, Jr Corry Area (10)
37. (N/A) Caleb Wakeley, So Shaler Area (7)
38. (N/A) Tony Russel, So West Chester Henderson (1)
39. (N/A) Vinny Todaro, Jr Big Spring (3)
40. (9) Andrew Kuchta, Sr Baldwin (7)
41. (39) Lawtin Tellin, Sr Mt Lebanon (7)
42. (N/A) Josef Dipietrantonio, Sr Beaver Area (7 AA)
43. (N/A) Aaron Valerosa, Jr Towanda (4 AA)
44. (38) Dan Davis, Sr North Penn (1)
45. (N/A) Ryan Hertzog, Jr Southwestern (3)
46. (N/A) John Felts, Sr Red Land (3)
47. (N/A) Jordan Jackson, Jr Wellsboro Area (4 AA)
48. (N/A) Ernie Pitone, Jr O'Hara (12)
49. (N/A) Ross Wilson, So CR North (1)
50. (42) Chris Trimble, Sr North Penn (1)
etrain quotes
Want to see where I was right and wrong all season? Well I was kind of curious so I went back and looked at some of my old posts and came up with some things that I thought summed up my accuracy on the season. There is no way I can say with any sort of confidence that I was dead on at any point this season. It was extremely unpredictable throughout and the wild ride ended in probably the most fitting way with a huge suprise by North Penn and Conner Quinn.
etrain's quotes: September
"First off I would like to give my sincere congrats to Mt. Lebanon on earning the top spot on Penntrack's team rankings this week. They completely deserve this honor and have had some very nice early season races.
That being said, here's my stat:
North Allegheny hasn't lost at WPIALs since 2004"
"Conner Quinn may be ranked too high at this point in the season."
etrain's quotes: October
"5. North Penn- MacCauley, Trimble, Davis
So North Penn. Finished where at Carlisle last year? Finished where at Districts? Sure their 4-5 hasn't shown me much but I know their top three were all in the top 30 or so at Districts and the school is frickin huge, they can burn a few guys at top mileage to get a solid set of 4-5 runners. They peak at the right time and I can drop a huge load of stats on you about how awesome they have been at Districts the past few years even when people expect them to do squat (see 2010 District One Championships). And no one expected them to do squat this year. They were my pick to win Districts and I am really having a hard time letting go of that (they are still my pick to win by the way, I don't back out of things I say very easily, I'm just stubborn like that) Jacky Mac was the talk of the town in the spring. Don't forget about the kid people, he's still going to be good. Dan Davis has been solid as well, another potential state medalist wearing the baby blue."
1. Cardinal O'Hara
"Only thing I can find that concerns me is that if a guy gets hurt in their top 5 they don't have much of a 6/7 that I have seen to come save the day. We will see, but definitely the #1 team."
"District 3 Championships 10/26
AAA: The top 9 runners from a season ago have graduated, leaving the race wide open for a new face to make a name for himself. That new face looks to be Connor Strynkowski at this point in the season, after a terrific track season last spring, a hot streak of solid races in the past month, including a great run at Gettysburg and a win at Mid Penns."
"Burke has also been to the big meets and has shown a lot of potential for a breakout performance at this meet. Burke was 31 seconds back from Wilkinson a year ago, this year things should be much tighter."
"I've always been a Jack MacCauley fan. I think he will be top 5 at districts."
"3. North Allegheny
I have a lot of confidence is this program, they look to be on the rise after a great day at TSTCA especially for Steiner who got a huge win and looks to really be rounding into shape. Unfortunately I just don't see how they can beat Lebo at this stage. Appman can definitely run a bit faster, maybe Bojarski too, but Lebo has the same kind of ifs and buts."
District One Sleepers
"Pete Downs (finally showing the potential I thought he would show at Viking. Trad etrain being way to early on people), Jack Huemmler (maybe I'm making too much out of DELCOs, but I hope not), Ian Yankuso (who? Exactly, they are killed sleepers for a reason people), Sam Webb (if Kevin Kelly thinks the guy is gonna have a big race, how can I not think so), and Joesph O'Such (great at Paul Short, not so much anywhere else, lucky for him, Districts is a lot like Paul Short)."
"Quinn bombed last year at Districts so let's hope this stage isn't too scary for him again."
"So I've got Drew, depending on course conditions and how the race plays out he can scare 15:20. Hibbs for second, we shall see how it ends up because he has been throwing up lots of red flags as of late, but I trust his experience and gamerness to pull it out."
"Can't sleep on Brett Kelly. He's a state medalist last year, top 10 at Districts the past two years, and oh yeah he goes to the same school that Jason Weller and Mark Dennin went to. Put away your pillows boys."
"Like I said Israel is my big sleeper this year so I'm high on him for this race." (one week early)
"etrain not picking Magaha"
"1. Brendan Shearn
2. Nate Tallada
3. Barrett Kemp
4. Sam Williams
5. Ryan Smathers
6. Curt Jewett
7. Luke Jones
8. Jared Schatz
9. Shawn Wolfe
10. Rico Golassi"
"1. Logan Steiner
2. Drew Magaha
3. Conner Quinn
4. Max Norris
5. Dan Jaskowak
6. Brent Kennedy
7. Mike Runco
8. Brett Kelly
9. Alex Moran
10. Sean Burke
11. Ned Willig
12. Tom Coyle
13. Sam Hibbs
14. Aaron Wilkinson
15. Connor Strynkowski
16. Connor Harriman
17. Korey Replogle
18. Dan Savage
19. Dylan Mountain
20. Dan Davis
21. Ean DiSilvio
22. Francis Ferruzzi
23. Jeff Groh
24. Mike Billotta
25. Jack MaCauley"
etrain quotes: November
"The other guy who reminds me of that pair of Micikas and Ayers is Dominic Deluca the sophomore from Dallas, definitely worth a flyer."
"I'm still on the North Penn bandwagon folks! Yeah not quite as a team but the individuals out front I like a lot. How about Jack MacCauley for a big bounce back race? Definitely could happen, not extremely confident about it, but it may happen. I'm more pumped to see what Dan Davis can do. People forget he was 29th or so a year ago. He had a much better stretch run this year than last year so states could be very interesting. Its hard to imagine North Penn without a medalist at states for the second straight year. Oh and in deeper leagues Chris Trimble isn't a bad pick, kids talented."
"Some deeper sleepers
The NA pack
Kevin Tramlgini
Ryan Boccabella
Ross Wilson
Chris Muldoon
Matt Craft
Nate Kreider"
"Hate (kind of a strong word, its just a form of expression people don't mean it like that)
Andrew Kutcha- Baldwin always runs well at WPIALs but they have struggled to find success on the states course (see Bishop, Cecala, Logan, Adley, Hobart ...)
The district 6 guys- Its gonna be a problem having raced on Monday rather than Saturday, it effects your training enough to slip you a couple spots
Alex Moran- hasn't had a legit big race all season, it's tough to imagine the tables turing all of a sudden
Dan Jaskowak- I think he hasn't raced anyone in too long and honestly, no offfense, I don't see how he can win this race regardless of how it plays out. Maybe I just don't know the courses well enough, but I can't see how so many people are as high as they are on him."
"Love
Brett Kelly- Always great on the state course
Connor Harriman- Haven't forgotten that 2nd place finish at pre states over quinn, magaha etc.
Connor Strynkowski- I can't help but feel the guy is going to bounce back in a big way"
"Here's some guys I'm nervous about going into the state championships:
Jeff Groh- Ran awesome at the District 3 Championships but historically District 3 Champions on the AAA side have struggled to stay on top the next week at States. It is very tough running the Hershey course two weeks in a row. Look at names like Alex Galli, Kyle Hurston, Vince McNally, they all had some struggles the next weekend. Groh's also a young guy who is in the championship mix for the first time in his career.
The Henderson guys. So yes Coach Kelly and the Henderson system always do very well at states, and always peak at the right time. However, I'm not sure I see a Will Kellar out of this mix of Henderson guys this year. Kellar finished 17th at States as a Sophomore, but he had a solid run at Hershey under his belt already and was traiining with Senior leader Chris Aldrich. Now these sophomores have the pressure of leading their team as they try to get on the podium and, although they almost all have run the states course before, they did not have a huge amount of success. I'm nervous the pressure on this big stage along with perhaps too fast of a first mile could end up really biting these Henderson guys like Russell, Haugh and Collins if you buy too high.
Sam Hibbs. I think the kid is going to go very high in drafts because he has the huge upside of being clutch and showing up and competing for the win, just like Ryan Gil a year ago. However, Hibbs has not shown any flashes of brilliance the past two weeks and its not because he is injured/recovering from injury (I think anyway) which already makes this a different situation than Gil. Also there is reason to believe Gil was saving his best for states (its the only race he ran legitimately well at all year, so I think he was holding back at Districts). For Hibbs the upside is he gets you 1st overall in an amazing day. The downside, however, is huge and arguably much more likely. That is he finishes outside the top 10 and maybe even outside the top 20 if he continues this downhill climb. I don't think its worth taking that big of a chance on a top 3-5 pick in the draft. I'm much higher on his teammate Conner Quinn, who i would definitely draft before Hibbs"
"North Penn and Great Valley are both high on my list of teams I'm confident in so they could surprise but I just don't think they are as good as these other teams so as much as I like them, I don't see them really finishing higher than 5-8 ish"
"I'm worried about Henderson. They are so young out front and so inexperienced on this kind of stage with this kind of pressure. They came through at districts but states is a different animal. Great coaching and a great system, so they can easily prove me wrong, but it doesn't mean I'm not scared"
"I'm not seeing a huge day from Savage or their freshman James, but I do think the other guys will run well, especially Billotta. I think that should seal their state championship hopes."
Believe it or not I said all of that, you can go back and it look it up. Not too bad but definitely some huge blemishes on the resume. That's why its fun to play the game I suppose.
etrain's quotes: September
"First off I would like to give my sincere congrats to Mt. Lebanon on earning the top spot on Penntrack's team rankings this week. They completely deserve this honor and have had some very nice early season races.
That being said, here's my stat:
North Allegheny hasn't lost at WPIALs since 2004"
"Conner Quinn may be ranked too high at this point in the season."
etrain's quotes: October
"5. North Penn- MacCauley, Trimble, Davis
So North Penn. Finished where at Carlisle last year? Finished where at Districts? Sure their 4-5 hasn't shown me much but I know their top three were all in the top 30 or so at Districts and the school is frickin huge, they can burn a few guys at top mileage to get a solid set of 4-5 runners. They peak at the right time and I can drop a huge load of stats on you about how awesome they have been at Districts the past few years even when people expect them to do squat (see 2010 District One Championships). And no one expected them to do squat this year. They were my pick to win Districts and I am really having a hard time letting go of that (they are still my pick to win by the way, I don't back out of things I say very easily, I'm just stubborn like that) Jacky Mac was the talk of the town in the spring. Don't forget about the kid people, he's still going to be good. Dan Davis has been solid as well, another potential state medalist wearing the baby blue."
1. Cardinal O'Hara
"Only thing I can find that concerns me is that if a guy gets hurt in their top 5 they don't have much of a 6/7 that I have seen to come save the day. We will see, but definitely the #1 team."
"District 3 Championships 10/26
AAA: The top 9 runners from a season ago have graduated, leaving the race wide open for a new face to make a name for himself. That new face looks to be Connor Strynkowski at this point in the season, after a terrific track season last spring, a hot streak of solid races in the past month, including a great run at Gettysburg and a win at Mid Penns."
"Burke has also been to the big meets and has shown a lot of potential for a breakout performance at this meet. Burke was 31 seconds back from Wilkinson a year ago, this year things should be much tighter."
"I've always been a Jack MacCauley fan. I think he will be top 5 at districts."
"3. North Allegheny
I have a lot of confidence is this program, they look to be on the rise after a great day at TSTCA especially for Steiner who got a huge win and looks to really be rounding into shape. Unfortunately I just don't see how they can beat Lebo at this stage. Appman can definitely run a bit faster, maybe Bojarski too, but Lebo has the same kind of ifs and buts."
District One Sleepers
"Pete Downs (finally showing the potential I thought he would show at Viking. Trad etrain being way to early on people), Jack Huemmler (maybe I'm making too much out of DELCOs, but I hope not), Ian Yankuso (who? Exactly, they are killed sleepers for a reason people), Sam Webb (if Kevin Kelly thinks the guy is gonna have a big race, how can I not think so), and Joesph O'Such (great at Paul Short, not so much anywhere else, lucky for him, Districts is a lot like Paul Short)."
"Quinn bombed last year at Districts so let's hope this stage isn't too scary for him again."
"So I've got Drew, depending on course conditions and how the race plays out he can scare 15:20. Hibbs for second, we shall see how it ends up because he has been throwing up lots of red flags as of late, but I trust his experience and gamerness to pull it out."
"Can't sleep on Brett Kelly. He's a state medalist last year, top 10 at Districts the past two years, and oh yeah he goes to the same school that Jason Weller and Mark Dennin went to. Put away your pillows boys."
"Like I said Israel is my big sleeper this year so I'm high on him for this race." (one week early)
"etrain not picking Magaha"
"1. Brendan Shearn
2. Nate Tallada
3. Barrett Kemp
4. Sam Williams
5. Ryan Smathers
6. Curt Jewett
7. Luke Jones
8. Jared Schatz
9. Shawn Wolfe
10. Rico Golassi"
"1. Logan Steiner
2. Drew Magaha
3. Conner Quinn
4. Max Norris
5. Dan Jaskowak
6. Brent Kennedy
7. Mike Runco
8. Brett Kelly
9. Alex Moran
10. Sean Burke
11. Ned Willig
12. Tom Coyle
13. Sam Hibbs
14. Aaron Wilkinson
15. Connor Strynkowski
16. Connor Harriman
17. Korey Replogle
18. Dan Savage
19. Dylan Mountain
20. Dan Davis
21. Ean DiSilvio
22. Francis Ferruzzi
23. Jeff Groh
24. Mike Billotta
25. Jack MaCauley"
etrain quotes: November
"The other guy who reminds me of that pair of Micikas and Ayers is Dominic Deluca the sophomore from Dallas, definitely worth a flyer."
"I'm still on the North Penn bandwagon folks! Yeah not quite as a team but the individuals out front I like a lot. How about Jack MacCauley for a big bounce back race? Definitely could happen, not extremely confident about it, but it may happen. I'm more pumped to see what Dan Davis can do. People forget he was 29th or so a year ago. He had a much better stretch run this year than last year so states could be very interesting. Its hard to imagine North Penn without a medalist at states for the second straight year. Oh and in deeper leagues Chris Trimble isn't a bad pick, kids talented."
"Some deeper sleepers
The NA pack
Kevin Tramlgini
Ryan Boccabella
Ross Wilson
Chris Muldoon
Matt Craft
Nate Kreider"
"Hate (kind of a strong word, its just a form of expression people don't mean it like that)
Andrew Kutcha- Baldwin always runs well at WPIALs but they have struggled to find success on the states course (see Bishop, Cecala, Logan, Adley, Hobart ...)
The district 6 guys- Its gonna be a problem having raced on Monday rather than Saturday, it effects your training enough to slip you a couple spots
Alex Moran- hasn't had a legit big race all season, it's tough to imagine the tables turing all of a sudden
Dan Jaskowak- I think he hasn't raced anyone in too long and honestly, no offfense, I don't see how he can win this race regardless of how it plays out. Maybe I just don't know the courses well enough, but I can't see how so many people are as high as they are on him."
"Love
Brett Kelly- Always great on the state course
Connor Harriman- Haven't forgotten that 2nd place finish at pre states over quinn, magaha etc.
Connor Strynkowski- I can't help but feel the guy is going to bounce back in a big way"
"Here's some guys I'm nervous about going into the state championships:
Jeff Groh- Ran awesome at the District 3 Championships but historically District 3 Champions on the AAA side have struggled to stay on top the next week at States. It is very tough running the Hershey course two weeks in a row. Look at names like Alex Galli, Kyle Hurston, Vince McNally, they all had some struggles the next weekend. Groh's also a young guy who is in the championship mix for the first time in his career.
The Henderson guys. So yes Coach Kelly and the Henderson system always do very well at states, and always peak at the right time. However, I'm not sure I see a Will Kellar out of this mix of Henderson guys this year. Kellar finished 17th at States as a Sophomore, but he had a solid run at Hershey under his belt already and was traiining with Senior leader Chris Aldrich. Now these sophomores have the pressure of leading their team as they try to get on the podium and, although they almost all have run the states course before, they did not have a huge amount of success. I'm nervous the pressure on this big stage along with perhaps too fast of a first mile could end up really biting these Henderson guys like Russell, Haugh and Collins if you buy too high.
Sam Hibbs. I think the kid is going to go very high in drafts because he has the huge upside of being clutch and showing up and competing for the win, just like Ryan Gil a year ago. However, Hibbs has not shown any flashes of brilliance the past two weeks and its not because he is injured/recovering from injury (I think anyway) which already makes this a different situation than Gil. Also there is reason to believe Gil was saving his best for states (its the only race he ran legitimately well at all year, so I think he was holding back at Districts). For Hibbs the upside is he gets you 1st overall in an amazing day. The downside, however, is huge and arguably much more likely. That is he finishes outside the top 10 and maybe even outside the top 20 if he continues this downhill climb. I don't think its worth taking that big of a chance on a top 3-5 pick in the draft. I'm much higher on his teammate Conner Quinn, who i would definitely draft before Hibbs"
"North Penn and Great Valley are both high on my list of teams I'm confident in so they could surprise but I just don't think they are as good as these other teams so as much as I like them, I don't see them really finishing higher than 5-8 ish"
"I'm worried about Henderson. They are so young out front and so inexperienced on this kind of stage with this kind of pressure. They came through at districts but states is a different animal. Great coaching and a great system, so they can easily prove me wrong, but it doesn't mean I'm not scared"
"I'm not seeing a huge day from Savage or their freshman James, but I do think the other guys will run well, especially Billotta. I think that should seal their state championship hopes."
Believe it or not I said all of that, you can go back and it look it up. Not too bad but definitely some huge blemishes on the resume. That's why its fun to play the game I suppose.
JV Studs
So I said I would go over some of the top JV guys in the state, and I haven't been following things too closely in terms of JV performances, but I'll just throw out some names/times/performances that have impressed me to get some other names out there.
In my day, I was a JV runner for 3 years at Upper Dublin and didn't get on Varsity until my senior year. As a team we won a couple JV meets and a few of my friends won individual JV titles or came very close (Ian McGrath got 2nd a boat load). It was a lot of fun running with those guys, and I really improved a lot from running with them.
In addition, a lot of my favorite races to watch were the JV races. It is where you see the most time drops often times, and it really where you see a lot of dedication and hard work pay off. It's where 19 minute guys become 17 minute guys. So props to all the JV runners out there. Keep working hard and it will pay off.
Here's a few names to check out. First going out west.
At the Tri State JV race, the course was pretty much a huge mess, but it didn't stop the Mt. Lebo boys from sweeping the top 5, and taking 6 of the top 7 spots.
1 1 Tony Consiglio, Jr 17:39 5:41 Mt. Lebanon
2 2 Jack Walsh, Jr 17:47 5:44 Mt. Lebanon
3 3 Bradley Pollock, Jr 17:57 5:47 Mt. Lebanon
4 4 Ian Baun, Fr 18:04 5:50 Mt. Lebanon
5 5 Evan Hatton, So 18:05 5:50 Mt. Lebanon
6 6 Stan Szafranski, So 18:13 5:52 Pine Richland
7 7 Steele Eckenrode, Fr 18:18 5:54 Mt. Lebanon
Of course this race was slightly different the JV race on race day at Tristates, which featured not only the stud group of Mt Lebo guys, but also a killer group of North Allegheny runners. North Allegheny consistently has one of the best JV squads in the state, and they showed it at this meet. Lebo's Pollock took first, but after him it was the NA show.
1 1 Bradley Pollock, Jr 5:38 5:59 18:19 5:54 Mt. Lebanon
2 2 Kolbe Short, So 5:39 6:02 18:20 5:55 North Allegheny
3 3 Sam Rutan, So 5:35 6:03 18:22 5:55 North Allegheny
4 4 Dan Meehan, Fr 5:47 6:05 18:37 6:00 North Allegheny
5 5 Ian Baun, Fr 5:44 6:06 18:43 6:02 Mt. Lebanon
6 6 Dan Whitehurst, Sr 5:43 6:14 18:45 6:03 North Allegheny
7 7 Benjamin Goehring, Fr 5:46 6:11 18:46 6:03 North Allegheny
8 8 Jake Perri, Sr 5:55 6:14 18:46 6:03 Seneca Valley
9 9 Hunter Wharrey, Fr 5:49 6:12 18:50 6:04 North Allegheny
10 10 Alec McGovern, So 5:55 6:09 18:57 6:06 North Allegheny
Plenty of talented Frosh and Sophs in this race.
On the District One side, North Penn and Henderson were two top teams at Districts on states, and their JV squads followed suit. At Chestmonts Henderson took 5 of the top 8 spots to roll on the rest of the league.
1 1 Joshua McGonagle Sr West Chester Henderson 17:21 5:35
2 2 Gordy Barchet Fr West Chester Henderson 17:22 5:36
3 3 Alex Hughes Jr West Chester East 17:36 5:40
4 4 Ricky Waltz So West Chester Henderson 17:43 5:43
5 5 Sean Cleary Jr Avon Grove 17:49 5:44
6 6 Alex Drap Fr West Chester Henderson 17:53 5:46
7 7 Keelan O'Reilly Fr Downingtown East 17:53 5:46
8 8 Kevin Moy So West Chester Henderson 17:59 5:48
Meanwhile at Suburban Ones, North Penn had the individual JV champion, a kid by the name of Hunter Hill ironically. But CR North actually took down the JV team title with a better spread.
1 1 Hunter Hill, Jr 17:11 5:32 North Penn High Schoo
2 2 Liam Oconnell, So 17:29 5:38 Pennsbury, Boys
3 3 P J. Succi, Jr 17:31 5:39 William Tennent Hs Bo
4 4 Stephen Algeo, Jr 17:33 5:40 Pennsbury, Boys
5 5 Jack Felt, Sr 17:35 5:40 Council Rock North
6 6 Ryan McCann, Sr 17:36 5:40 Council Rock North
7 7 Alex Hiznay, Sr 17:38 5:41 Cb East - M
8 8 Matt Carter, Jr 17:41 5:42 William Tennent Hs Bo
9 9 Dan Chrzanowski, Sr 17:42 5:42 Pennsbury, Boys
10 10 Mark Biedlingmaier, Sr 17:46 5:44 North Penn High Schoo
Pennsbury also had a couple of nice performances. They return a solid chunk of their varsity including stud freshman Webb and 10th place finisher at states Connor Harriman.
At the District One JV race (a race which featured about 900 people when I ran in it my Junior year), West Chester Henderson continued their dominance with a new front runner at the helm, Eric Stratman. Another one of the teams fantasic set of Sophs to go with Barchet, Russell, Haugh and Collins.
1 1 Eric Stratman, So 5:11 16:53 5:27 West Chester Henderso
2 2 Josh McGonagle, Sr 5:14 17:00 5:29 West Chester Henderso
3 3 Gordy Barchet, Fr 5:14 17:01 5:29 West Chester Henderso
4 4 Alex Hiznay, Sr 5:12 17:10 5:32 Central Bucks East
5 5 Ricky Waltz, So 5:14 17:12 5:33 West Chester Henderso
6 6 Kevin Molloy, Jr 5:12 17:18 5:35 Pennsbury
7 7 Hunter Hill, Jr 5:15 17:20 5:35 North Penn
8 8 Thomas Doran, So 5:31 17:21 5:36 Great Valley
9 9 Mark Biedlingmaier, Sr 5:22 17:23 5:36 North Penn
10 10 Peter Flanagan, So 5:27 17:23 5:36 Great Valley
11 11 Zak Khattabi, Fr 5:20 17:26 5:37 West Chester Henderso
12 12 Ben Kloss, Sr 5:22 17:28 5:38 North Penn
13 13 Alex Drap, Fr 5:20 17:29 5:38 West Chester Henderso
14 14 Dan Chrzanowski, Sr 5:18 17:29 5:38 Pennsbury
15 15 Matt Carter, Jr 5:18 17:33 5:40 William Tennent
Shout out to Evan Hatton for this great idea for a post, hope this got some names out there that normally don't get out there.
-train
In my day, I was a JV runner for 3 years at Upper Dublin and didn't get on Varsity until my senior year. As a team we won a couple JV meets and a few of my friends won individual JV titles or came very close (Ian McGrath got 2nd a boat load). It was a lot of fun running with those guys, and I really improved a lot from running with them.
In addition, a lot of my favorite races to watch were the JV races. It is where you see the most time drops often times, and it really where you see a lot of dedication and hard work pay off. It's where 19 minute guys become 17 minute guys. So props to all the JV runners out there. Keep working hard and it will pay off.
Here's a few names to check out. First going out west.
At the Tri State JV race, the course was pretty much a huge mess, but it didn't stop the Mt. Lebo boys from sweeping the top 5, and taking 6 of the top 7 spots.
1 1 Tony Consiglio, Jr 17:39 5:41 Mt. Lebanon
2 2 Jack Walsh, Jr 17:47 5:44 Mt. Lebanon
3 3 Bradley Pollock, Jr 17:57 5:47 Mt. Lebanon
4 4 Ian Baun, Fr 18:04 5:50 Mt. Lebanon
5 5 Evan Hatton, So 18:05 5:50 Mt. Lebanon
6 6 Stan Szafranski, So 18:13 5:52 Pine Richland
7 7 Steele Eckenrode, Fr 18:18 5:54 Mt. Lebanon
Of course this race was slightly different the JV race on race day at Tristates, which featured not only the stud group of Mt Lebo guys, but also a killer group of North Allegheny runners. North Allegheny consistently has one of the best JV squads in the state, and they showed it at this meet. Lebo's Pollock took first, but after him it was the NA show.
1 1 Bradley Pollock, Jr 5:38 5:59 18:19 5:54 Mt. Lebanon
2 2 Kolbe Short, So 5:39 6:02 18:20 5:55 North Allegheny
3 3 Sam Rutan, So 5:35 6:03 18:22 5:55 North Allegheny
4 4 Dan Meehan, Fr 5:47 6:05 18:37 6:00 North Allegheny
5 5 Ian Baun, Fr 5:44 6:06 18:43 6:02 Mt. Lebanon
6 6 Dan Whitehurst, Sr 5:43 6:14 18:45 6:03 North Allegheny
7 7 Benjamin Goehring, Fr 5:46 6:11 18:46 6:03 North Allegheny
8 8 Jake Perri, Sr 5:55 6:14 18:46 6:03 Seneca Valley
9 9 Hunter Wharrey, Fr 5:49 6:12 18:50 6:04 North Allegheny
10 10 Alec McGovern, So 5:55 6:09 18:57 6:06 North Allegheny
Plenty of talented Frosh and Sophs in this race.
On the District One side, North Penn and Henderson were two top teams at Districts on states, and their JV squads followed suit. At Chestmonts Henderson took 5 of the top 8 spots to roll on the rest of the league.
1 1 Joshua McGonagle Sr West Chester Henderson 17:21 5:35
2 2 Gordy Barchet Fr West Chester Henderson 17:22 5:36
3 3 Alex Hughes Jr West Chester East 17:36 5:40
4 4 Ricky Waltz So West Chester Henderson 17:43 5:43
5 5 Sean Cleary Jr Avon Grove 17:49 5:44
6 6 Alex Drap Fr West Chester Henderson 17:53 5:46
7 7 Keelan O'Reilly Fr Downingtown East 17:53 5:46
8 8 Kevin Moy So West Chester Henderson 17:59 5:48
Meanwhile at Suburban Ones, North Penn had the individual JV champion, a kid by the name of Hunter Hill ironically. But CR North actually took down the JV team title with a better spread.
1 1 Hunter Hill, Jr 17:11 5:32 North Penn High Schoo
2 2 Liam Oconnell, So 17:29 5:38 Pennsbury, Boys
3 3 P J. Succi, Jr 17:31 5:39 William Tennent Hs Bo
4 4 Stephen Algeo, Jr 17:33 5:40 Pennsbury, Boys
5 5 Jack Felt, Sr 17:35 5:40 Council Rock North
6 6 Ryan McCann, Sr 17:36 5:40 Council Rock North
7 7 Alex Hiznay, Sr 17:38 5:41 Cb East - M
8 8 Matt Carter, Jr 17:41 5:42 William Tennent Hs Bo
9 9 Dan Chrzanowski, Sr 17:42 5:42 Pennsbury, Boys
10 10 Mark Biedlingmaier, Sr 17:46 5:44 North Penn High Schoo
Pennsbury also had a couple of nice performances. They return a solid chunk of their varsity including stud freshman Webb and 10th place finisher at states Connor Harriman.
At the District One JV race (a race which featured about 900 people when I ran in it my Junior year), West Chester Henderson continued their dominance with a new front runner at the helm, Eric Stratman. Another one of the teams fantasic set of Sophs to go with Barchet, Russell, Haugh and Collins.
1 1 Eric Stratman, So 5:11 16:53 5:27 West Chester Henderso
2 2 Josh McGonagle, Sr 5:14 17:00 5:29 West Chester Henderso
3 3 Gordy Barchet, Fr 5:14 17:01 5:29 West Chester Henderso
4 4 Alex Hiznay, Sr 5:12 17:10 5:32 Central Bucks East
5 5 Ricky Waltz, So 5:14 17:12 5:33 West Chester Henderso
6 6 Kevin Molloy, Jr 5:12 17:18 5:35 Pennsbury
7 7 Hunter Hill, Jr 5:15 17:20 5:35 North Penn
8 8 Thomas Doran, So 5:31 17:21 5:36 Great Valley
9 9 Mark Biedlingmaier, Sr 5:22 17:23 5:36 North Penn
10 10 Peter Flanagan, So 5:27 17:23 5:36 Great Valley
11 11 Zak Khattabi, Fr 5:20 17:26 5:37 West Chester Henderso
12 12 Ben Kloss, Sr 5:22 17:28 5:38 North Penn
13 13 Alex Drap, Fr 5:20 17:29 5:38 West Chester Henderso
14 14 Dan Chrzanowski, Sr 5:18 17:29 5:38 Pennsbury
15 15 Matt Carter, Jr 5:18 17:33 5:40 William Tennent
Shout out to Evan Hatton for this great idea for a post, hope this got some names out there that normally don't get out there.
-train
Coming Soon
First off let me apologize to everybody who has been checking the blog recently and hasn't really seen any updates. I didn't have to do very much work at all to get all these awesome states stories up, those were essentially all written by the runners themselves, and each did a great job. I hope that all of the readers enjoyed them just as much as I did and learned what I did from them.
But folks, I think it is time that I step back up to the plate and get this blog back going again to its former glory right around states time. The season may have just ended, but that doesn't mean there is nothing left to talk about.
I have a list of things I hope to accomplish in the upcoming couple days/weeks to keep this blog updated and people talking about PA running. I'll list them off here, and hopefully I can get to all of them.
Final Top 50 Rankings. These will be a bit of a challenge, its going to be tough for them to not look virtually the same as the state championship results with Dutin Wilson at the top, but hey, I will try my best to not be too biased. Overall, the state meet is the most important meet of the season, so you run well there it really helps out your cause.
Final Top 50 v. Original Top 50
So this should be a bit of fun. Seeing where everyone went on the list from the Summer or maybe my September rankings, to where they ended up at the end. See who surprised me and see who I thought would run better. Everyone can make fun of how wrong I was on some guys (Drew Magaha) and I will have no complaints about it.
States Recap
Yeah, this is going to be way late, but I was letting other people tell their stories first and reading up and studying up because I was not actually at the state meet to see this myself, but basically I'll just give a breakdown of some things I noticed. Also I'm going to look back and pick things out of previous posts I made as prove to where I was right or wrong.
Final Top 10 Teams
Going to look a real lot like the State Championship results and like I said above it will be slightly biased. We will see how it goes.
JV Runners
Just going to list off some of the top JV guys, some names you may want to remember for the future. I promised one of my loyal readers I would do this and I haven't forgetten! So I will be doing this!
College Running
Remember when I said I was going to talk about this? Well hopefully I get a chance to say some things, but I have a great piece from my buddy Andrew Gourlay that I think will be very interesting about running at college even if you are not on a team. Also we can maybe get in some D1 nats talk, or Lukas Verzbicas talk. All should be interesting.
Footlocker/NXN
I may even go a little National high school running on everyone.
Track Preview
Maybe. If I find time I will.
I've been doing a lot of work preparing for my rap battle against the Muhlenberg freshman and also writing a lot of bios for the Felixbowl, my big event back home over Thanksgiving break, so you will have to pardon my lateness on any of these posts above. Don't worry track will be back on the blog.
-train
But folks, I think it is time that I step back up to the plate and get this blog back going again to its former glory right around states time. The season may have just ended, but that doesn't mean there is nothing left to talk about.
I have a list of things I hope to accomplish in the upcoming couple days/weeks to keep this blog updated and people talking about PA running. I'll list them off here, and hopefully I can get to all of them.
Final Top 50 Rankings. These will be a bit of a challenge, its going to be tough for them to not look virtually the same as the state championship results with Dutin Wilson at the top, but hey, I will try my best to not be too biased. Overall, the state meet is the most important meet of the season, so you run well there it really helps out your cause.
Final Top 50 v. Original Top 50
So this should be a bit of fun. Seeing where everyone went on the list from the Summer or maybe my September rankings, to where they ended up at the end. See who surprised me and see who I thought would run better. Everyone can make fun of how wrong I was on some guys (Drew Magaha) and I will have no complaints about it.
States Recap
Yeah, this is going to be way late, but I was letting other people tell their stories first and reading up and studying up because I was not actually at the state meet to see this myself, but basically I'll just give a breakdown of some things I noticed. Also I'm going to look back and pick things out of previous posts I made as prove to where I was right or wrong.
Final Top 10 Teams
Going to look a real lot like the State Championship results and like I said above it will be slightly biased. We will see how it goes.
JV Runners
Just going to list off some of the top JV guys, some names you may want to remember for the future. I promised one of my loyal readers I would do this and I haven't forgetten! So I will be doing this!
College Running
Remember when I said I was going to talk about this? Well hopefully I get a chance to say some things, but I have a great piece from my buddy Andrew Gourlay that I think will be very interesting about running at college even if you are not on a team. Also we can maybe get in some D1 nats talk, or Lukas Verzbicas talk. All should be interesting.
Footlocker/NXN
I may even go a little National high school running on everyone.
Track Preview
Maybe. If I find time I will.
I've been doing a lot of work preparing for my rap battle against the Muhlenberg freshman and also writing a lot of bios for the Felixbowl, my big event back home over Thanksgiving break, so you will have to pardon my lateness on any of these posts above. Don't worry track will be back on the blog.
-train
States- Nat Fox
A Tale of Two Races
For me, States was a tale of two races: the team race, and the individual race. Both races were separate entities, but they were inherently connected. They cannot be separated. To be honest, the team race was more important to me, however. My teammates–LJ, Roy, Matt, Rob, Josh, Xavier and Alex– had worked incredibly hard all season. Because of their commitment I was going to do everything in my power to ensure that my teammates had gold medals around their necks by the end of the day on November 5. Not only was I running for my teammates, I was running for my coach. Mr. Noyes has been an excellent mentor for the 4 years I've been in high school, and I have had the fortunate opportunity to run for one of the most dedicated coaches in the state. He wanted the gold as much as I did. We had been so close to winning for 3 years, and we wanted to get the job done this time. With both of these motivating factors, I knew I had to run a solid race.
The team race was out of my hands, however, as soon as the gun went off. I tried to do what I felt was best for my teammates all year long, but after we started, I had to trust my teammates. The most I could do for them was to run my race well. This is where the individual race comes in
I got out extremely fast. Four years of Hershey Parkview has taught me that the energy spent establishing a solid position early on is well worth it. I had a goal of crossing the mile mark at 4:58, and I definitely smiled a little bit when I saw that exact time at 1600 meters. I was in good position, but I knew all the guys in front of me, and I knew what they were capable of, so I had a tough, tough battle for every place. After 2000 meters, the pack had strung out, and I found myself around 15th place. At 2500 meters, I knew that I had very little shot at the top spots, but I still had a nice position to make top ten. On the aloha hills, my strategy was to take the hill normally, but to crush the flats at the top and try to break people at their weakest. I gained a couple of spots this way by the end of the worst hills, and I hovered around 12th place.
I gave up two places between the bottom of the aloha hills and the sewage plant, but I was within striking distance. At the bottom of poop out hill, I started to kick. I always kick at the bottom of the last hill because it catches people by surprise, and I can pick off a couple more spots that way. I managed to get 3 places and end up in 11th place, just out of the top ten.
I'm not disappointed with my race, even though I missed my goal of top ten. First, my time of 16:49 was the fastest ever by a QV runner. Considering the legacy of Quaker Valley runners that have come before me–John Yankello, Omar Hyjek, Chad Kosanovich, Andy Gregor, Andy Kifer, Zach Thomas, the list goes on– I was ecstatic to be able to say that I could be included in that list. Second (and this came after I got to cruise penntrack a little), my time would've been top ten all three previous years, so I knew that this year was especially strong, and being top 15 this year was special.
The most important reason I wasn't disappointed with my race, however, wasn't any of these. It was because I had done my job to help the team win a state championship. I scored just 5 points in the team standings, which was incredibly helpful for the team score. That was my true goal, and I knew I achieved that when they announced us as team champions.
Congratualtions to all of the winners on saturday, team and individual! It is a wonderful feeling to be a state champion, and I want to thank everyone who helped me get here, especially my friends, mentors, and my family.
As a closing statement, I would like to commend every runner I personally raced against on saturday. The guys from D7 (Josef, Alex Archer, Ryan Archer, Ryan Mcguire, and Roy) ran a great race and represented well. To be honest, everyone ran a great race, and I'm glad to have had the opportunity to run with and against such outstanding runners. Boys AA definitely was a close group of runners, and you could tell that from the medal stand. Everyone shook everyone else's hand, and the feeling was of mutual respect. This group of runners exemplifies the essence of running: hard work, respect, and fun. I hope to see everyone in track!
-Nat
For me, States was a tale of two races: the team race, and the individual race. Both races were separate entities, but they were inherently connected. They cannot be separated. To be honest, the team race was more important to me, however. My teammates–LJ, Roy, Matt, Rob, Josh, Xavier and Alex– had worked incredibly hard all season. Because of their commitment I was going to do everything in my power to ensure that my teammates had gold medals around their necks by the end of the day on November 5. Not only was I running for my teammates, I was running for my coach. Mr. Noyes has been an excellent mentor for the 4 years I've been in high school, and I have had the fortunate opportunity to run for one of the most dedicated coaches in the state. He wanted the gold as much as I did. We had been so close to winning for 3 years, and we wanted to get the job done this time. With both of these motivating factors, I knew I had to run a solid race.
The team race was out of my hands, however, as soon as the gun went off. I tried to do what I felt was best for my teammates all year long, but after we started, I had to trust my teammates. The most I could do for them was to run my race well. This is where the individual race comes in
I got out extremely fast. Four years of Hershey Parkview has taught me that the energy spent establishing a solid position early on is well worth it. I had a goal of crossing the mile mark at 4:58, and I definitely smiled a little bit when I saw that exact time at 1600 meters. I was in good position, but I knew all the guys in front of me, and I knew what they were capable of, so I had a tough, tough battle for every place. After 2000 meters, the pack had strung out, and I found myself around 15th place. At 2500 meters, I knew that I had very little shot at the top spots, but I still had a nice position to make top ten. On the aloha hills, my strategy was to take the hill normally, but to crush the flats at the top and try to break people at their weakest. I gained a couple of spots this way by the end of the worst hills, and I hovered around 12th place.
I gave up two places between the bottom of the aloha hills and the sewage plant, but I was within striking distance. At the bottom of poop out hill, I started to kick. I always kick at the bottom of the last hill because it catches people by surprise, and I can pick off a couple more spots that way. I managed to get 3 places and end up in 11th place, just out of the top ten.
I'm not disappointed with my race, even though I missed my goal of top ten. First, my time of 16:49 was the fastest ever by a QV runner. Considering the legacy of Quaker Valley runners that have come before me–John Yankello, Omar Hyjek, Chad Kosanovich, Andy Gregor, Andy Kifer, Zach Thomas, the list goes on– I was ecstatic to be able to say that I could be included in that list. Second (and this came after I got to cruise penntrack a little), my time would've been top ten all three previous years, so I knew that this year was especially strong, and being top 15 this year was special.
The most important reason I wasn't disappointed with my race, however, wasn't any of these. It was because I had done my job to help the team win a state championship. I scored just 5 points in the team standings, which was incredibly helpful for the team score. That was my true goal, and I knew I achieved that when they announced us as team champions.
Congratualtions to all of the winners on saturday, team and individual! It is a wonderful feeling to be a state champion, and I want to thank everyone who helped me get here, especially my friends, mentors, and my family.
As a closing statement, I would like to commend every runner I personally raced against on saturday. The guys from D7 (Josef, Alex Archer, Ryan Archer, Ryan Mcguire, and Roy) ran a great race and represented well. To be honest, everyone ran a great race, and I'm glad to have had the opportunity to run with and against such outstanding runners. Boys AA definitely was a close group of runners, and you could tell that from the medal stand. Everyone shook everyone else's hand, and the feeling was of mutual respect. This group of runners exemplifies the essence of running: hard work, respect, and fun. I hope to see everyone in track!
-Nat
States- Sean Burke
States turned out to be a much better experience the second time around. The first mile was fast (as it always is) and I hit 4:53. The hills took a toll on me, but i kept solid postioning around 20th going through two miles in around 10:12. The last mile was brutal, as I'm sure it was for everyone, but I was able to muster enough strength to pass 6 or 7 guys on Poop-out Hill and finish 12th in 16:23, improving over last year by 50 seconds and 68 places. I was definitely pleased with my effort throughout the race and with my strong finish. It's always thrilling to compete against such high level competition on a demanding course. As for my post-states plans, I'm racing this Saturday at the Death Valley Distance Carnival at Southern Columbia High School in an attempt to better my 5k PR and run around 15:35. Good luck to all runners competing in post season races!
States- Barrett Kemp
First off, congratulations to Brendan and everybody else for running one hell of a race. States is always an exciting experience, but to go into it knowing many of the top runners in the state as friends made it even more incredible. Running against people you don't know is one thing, wanting to race the hell out of people you love and respect is something else entirely.
This was really my first true State race; a year ago I ran through the season with a leg infection and the year before that I overexerted myself and went into the end-season exhausted. This year I tried to play all of my cards right -- I trained hard, ate well and slept more than enough. Going into the race I was expecting nothing less than top 10, truth be told I had high hopes for first, second, or third. I placed thirteenth. And not to sound conceited, but that performance disappointed me. The experience was still thrilling, but I just didn't run the race I knew I could. You know what that's like.
The first half of the race played out exactly as I planned -- I led on and off through to the Aloha Hills, pacing the race's first mile at ~4:50. But as we hit that first hill, I lost my breath and my chest started to seize in a kind of heartburn-like feeling. Not to make excuses, but my body didn't want me to go on like I was. From that point on it was a fierce battle to keep going, and even though I fell short of my goal I'm still proud of fighting through the course. And thanks to the guy who, as he passed me, said, "C'mon man, you can do this." It's that kind of kindred spirit that makes me love everything about running.
Can't wait to see you guys at track States, I'll be looking for you in the two-mile. You're all beasts.
This was really my first true State race; a year ago I ran through the season with a leg infection and the year before that I overexerted myself and went into the end-season exhausted. This year I tried to play all of my cards right -- I trained hard, ate well and slept more than enough. Going into the race I was expecting nothing less than top 10, truth be told I had high hopes for first, second, or third. I placed thirteenth. And not to sound conceited, but that performance disappointed me. The experience was still thrilling, but I just didn't run the race I knew I could. You know what that's like.
The first half of the race played out exactly as I planned -- I led on and off through to the Aloha Hills, pacing the race's first mile at ~4:50. But as we hit that first hill, I lost my breath and my chest started to seize in a kind of heartburn-like feeling. Not to make excuses, but my body didn't want me to go on like I was. From that point on it was a fierce battle to keep going, and even though I fell short of my goal I'm still proud of fighting through the course. And thanks to the guy who, as he passed me, said, "C'mon man, you can do this." It's that kind of kindred spirit that makes me love everything about running.
Can't wait to see you guys at track States, I'll be looking for you in the two-mile. You're all beasts.
States- Dan Davis
Q: So coming up into the state meet did you still believe you had a chance to win states?
A: In 2009 when Brad Miles won the individual state title for North Penn, Coach Werner told Chris Trimble and I that we have to “want” it and to work to rebuild the team from scratch because we had lost most of our seniors that year. This year, we had rebuilt a solid, full returning varsity from 2010 and had confidence that we could have some impact on the state. As the rankings fluctuated throughout the season we saw how competitive and challenging Cardinal O’Hara, Great Valley, and Henderson were, along with North Allegheny. North Penn was almost never talked about this whole season, and were almost consistently holding fifth place, and dropped to seventh place heading into the state meet. Coach Werner and assistant coach Hertz were having doubts about winning this state meet because of our position and other teams’ rankings and previous performances at bigger meets. Coach Werner told my dad that he hopes to at least pull away with a fourth place win, but turns out we lived up to his dream of North Penn winning states like we had wanted to for the past few years. We had no idea that we even came close to winning the state title, especially since we were racing a younger team against a team that has been ranked number one practically all season (Cardinal O’Hara).
Q: What was it like for you when you found out that you won?
A: A few guys from our JV team drove up to watch the race. Personally I did not place as well as I would’ve liked to, so I was upset because since 2009 I have dreamed of getting my hands on a state medal, that’s all I really wanted. Then as I am walking back to the starting line, the JV guys come running up to me excitedly chanting “NORTH PENN WON STATES!!!” I called them idiots because I did not believe them at first. Then when they showed me the results my heart lifted and my stress just melted away as I thought that North Penn had won states for the third time in five years and I am blessed to be a contribution to that title. I absolutely could not believe it, and as I looked at the scoring sheet, I saw how close of a race it truly was. Coach Werner always said “Every Second Counts” and it truly did, as we had to refer to our sixth man (Hunter Hill [Jr]) to determine the state title. It was the best day of my life thus far.
Q: How did the race unfold for you and your team? Any positives or negatives?
A: The funny thing about that race was it was practically the first time that we actually pulled each other together and worked together as the tight in friendship team that we are. The fact that we worked together throughout this race and fought until that last step on that black matt, made everything that we had gone through, worth every single second. I find no negatives in this race or even in this season, mainly because everyone matured and we grew more like a true team than we ever did last year. Whenever one of us had a bad day, we just walk it off and come fighting the next day. It’s all about the friendship and the chemistry with each other and the fun times that you have because what is cross country without a little bit of goofing around? This season was by far the most built, and respected season I have ever witnessed in my running career.
Q: Any influences or people you would like to thank?
A: Yes, I absolutely have to give a few shout outs on this occasion. The main shout out I want to present is to Coach Mike Werner and assistant Coach Mike Hertz for working hard to accomplish this long term goal. We could not have done this job without them. I also want to thank the North Penn Athletics staff for the work they do for us on a daily basis to keep the programs in shape. I want to also thank all of the alumni for supporting NPXC and influencing us to be the best we possibly can be, and not to worry about what others think. Thank you to all of the parents and JV who supported us throughout and at the end of the season. Well done North Penn, Well done. I am truly proud to be a part of such an awesome school and I couldn’t ask for a better team to run with. Truly was the time of my life.
A: In 2009 when Brad Miles won the individual state title for North Penn, Coach Werner told Chris Trimble and I that we have to “want” it and to work to rebuild the team from scratch because we had lost most of our seniors that year. This year, we had rebuilt a solid, full returning varsity from 2010 and had confidence that we could have some impact on the state. As the rankings fluctuated throughout the season we saw how competitive and challenging Cardinal O’Hara, Great Valley, and Henderson were, along with North Allegheny. North Penn was almost never talked about this whole season, and were almost consistently holding fifth place, and dropped to seventh place heading into the state meet. Coach Werner and assistant coach Hertz were having doubts about winning this state meet because of our position and other teams’ rankings and previous performances at bigger meets. Coach Werner told my dad that he hopes to at least pull away with a fourth place win, but turns out we lived up to his dream of North Penn winning states like we had wanted to for the past few years. We had no idea that we even came close to winning the state title, especially since we were racing a younger team against a team that has been ranked number one practically all season (Cardinal O’Hara).
Q: What was it like for you when you found out that you won?
A: A few guys from our JV team drove up to watch the race. Personally I did not place as well as I would’ve liked to, so I was upset because since 2009 I have dreamed of getting my hands on a state medal, that’s all I really wanted. Then as I am walking back to the starting line, the JV guys come running up to me excitedly chanting “NORTH PENN WON STATES!!!” I called them idiots because I did not believe them at first. Then when they showed me the results my heart lifted and my stress just melted away as I thought that North Penn had won states for the third time in five years and I am blessed to be a contribution to that title. I absolutely could not believe it, and as I looked at the scoring sheet, I saw how close of a race it truly was. Coach Werner always said “Every Second Counts” and it truly did, as we had to refer to our sixth man (Hunter Hill [Jr]) to determine the state title. It was the best day of my life thus far.
Q: How did the race unfold for you and your team? Any positives or negatives?
A: The funny thing about that race was it was practically the first time that we actually pulled each other together and worked together as the tight in friendship team that we are. The fact that we worked together throughout this race and fought until that last step on that black matt, made everything that we had gone through, worth every single second. I find no negatives in this race or even in this season, mainly because everyone matured and we grew more like a true team than we ever did last year. Whenever one of us had a bad day, we just walk it off and come fighting the next day. It’s all about the friendship and the chemistry with each other and the fun times that you have because what is cross country without a little bit of goofing around? This season was by far the most built, and respected season I have ever witnessed in my running career.
Q: Any influences or people you would like to thank?
A: Yes, I absolutely have to give a few shout outs on this occasion. The main shout out I want to present is to Coach Mike Werner and assistant Coach Mike Hertz for working hard to accomplish this long term goal. We could not have done this job without them. I also want to thank the North Penn Athletics staff for the work they do for us on a daily basis to keep the programs in shape. I want to also thank all of the alumni for supporting NPXC and influencing us to be the best we possibly can be, and not to worry about what others think. Thank you to all of the parents and JV who supported us throughout and at the end of the season. Well done North Penn, Well done. I am truly proud to be a part of such an awesome school and I couldn’t ask for a better team to run with. Truly was the time of my life.
States- Aaron Wilkinson
As far as Saturday is concerned, I can't say I'm entirely pleased with my end performance, however I don't regret anything I did in the race. I don't want to say I had a bad race because I don't want to take anything away from the other runners, but coming in 19th was not something I was anticipating. I went into the race with the goal of anything in the top 10. I went out hard and was in 4th for the majority of the race until about 1000m to go. I then dropped back to 8th. Once I reached the final hill by the finish, my legs filled with lead and I struggled to cross the line 150m away. Unfortunately, that was where I was passed by 11 people. The cause of this finish could have been a variety of things, but I don't want to try and justify my loss with excuses. I'm willing to just accept what happened, be thankful for my 3rd xc state medal, and look forward to footlocker. There, as the 5th returner in the race, my goal is to qualify for nationals. I'm aware that's it's a lofty goal and footlocker is always a crapshoot, but it's something to aim for and that I believe (on the right given day) I could accomplish.
States- Shawn Wolfe
not sound self centered and egotistical but, Annville-Cleona will be a team to watch next year. they had 2 guys medal (AA) and won their district. they have no seniors and only juniors and freshman. their number 3 was injured and ran very badly. the experienced freshys are just now learning to run a full 5k.
-Shawn Wolfe
-Shawn Wolfe
States- Brendan Shearn
ok, well first off I have to thank all the people that supported me, all of my coaches and my former coaches were there and that really meant a lot. Also my entire team had made shirts and painted up for me and it was really special having them all there supporting me seeing them at the brigde flipping out cheering for me really helped me a lot. But to my race strategy, the race played out exactly how i had imagined it going, the first mile went out very fast i think like 4:50, then after that i kinda pushed a little up that hill to see who could respond. when basically everyone did i kinda just stayed where i was, and wait, i actually ended up leading up the first of the aloha hills, and i just tryed to stay as comfortable as possible. Curt ended up leading after that hill and pretty much threw himself into that surge. I ended up catching him up the second hill and then again at the top of the hill he surged and was really pushing down the hill. as soon as we hit the bottom of the hill it was about 1000 to go and that was where i wanted to make my move so i pushed as hard as i could and broke away a little and just kept hammering. when i reached my dad right before i went down to poop out hill he was cheering and i knew i couldnt dissapoint them so i kept pushing. when i crossed the road I counted 3 of my footsteps and i heard his so i knew he was really close, I through myself into the last hill and just kept pushing. In the final 5 meters when I knew I had won I just was so excited i could barely believe it. Another thing I'd like to mention is that all of the AA guys really ran great and I wanted to win but i wouldev been just as happy if any of my other friends had won. and up on the medal stand all of the AA guys put there arms around each other. and it was a pretty cool the whole experience was amazing and i still cant believe it.
States- Meghan McGovern
Hi everyone!
My name is Meghan McGovern and I am a senior at North Penn High School. I am a huge etrain fan so I am excited to write this recap for his blog!
This year’s states was a crazy year for North Penn! To see the boys win on a tie breaker was amazing and a testament to all their hard work. I am so happy for them and they deserve it! One of the best parts of the weekend was seeing all the support both the boys and girls teams received from past NPXC runners. NPXC is truly a family and I feel blessed to be a part of it.
The race at states played out perfectly for me. I was able to get out to a good start and remain in the lead pack throughout the race. With a little less than a mile to go, Hannah Grossman began to pull away and we battled to an all out sprint at the end. Congratulations to Hannah and everyone else for awesome races and seasons!
Sharing the states experience with my team was great. I am so proud of everyone. At the beginning of the season our goals were to win our conference and qualify for states. Although the path we took to get there had a few bumps in it, it was an awesome season.
Overall, I could not have asked for a better way to end my senior cross country season. Saturday still seems so unreal to me! Congrats again to everyone and see you in indoor!
PS. shout out to my sister Colleen for being the best teammate!
My name is Meghan McGovern and I am a senior at North Penn High School. I am a huge etrain fan so I am excited to write this recap for his blog!
This year’s states was a crazy year for North Penn! To see the boys win on a tie breaker was amazing and a testament to all their hard work. I am so happy for them and they deserve it! One of the best parts of the weekend was seeing all the support both the boys and girls teams received from past NPXC runners. NPXC is truly a family and I feel blessed to be a part of it.
The race at states played out perfectly for me. I was able to get out to a good start and remain in the lead pack throughout the race. With a little less than a mile to go, Hannah Grossman began to pull away and we battled to an all out sprint at the end. Congratulations to Hannah and everyone else for awesome races and seasons!
Sharing the states experience with my team was great. I am so proud of everyone. At the beginning of the season our goals were to win our conference and qualify for states. Although the path we took to get there had a few bumps in it, it was an awesome season.
Overall, I could not have asked for a better way to end my senior cross country season. Saturday still seems so unreal to me! Congrats again to everyone and see you in indoor!
PS. shout out to my sister Colleen for being the best teammate!
States- Sam Williams
This season has been a completely new experience for me. With two seniors gone off a team with only seven kids, it was a very empty feeling stepping to the line without them there, especially after the heartbreak of last year, losing states on a disqualification. Seeing as there were no seniors on our team this year, Curtis and myself had big shoes to fill as the oldest runners. Not all that much was expected to come of this year. Having two front-runners at meets was helpful, but usually not good enough to win. The weather this year certainly did not help either. It is extremely hard to gauge yourself against years past when conditions are so poor. But that's not to say that this year wasn't rewarding. I won my first cross-country race ever at the foundation invite and was rewarded with another invite win several weeks later. But the one race on the season that gets me is states. Good old states. At the half way point of the race it was perfect. The seven favorites running in a tight front pack. I felt good, even great, but the aloha hills took their toll. Not on the way up, rather the way down, as I just couldn't hang on to the lead pace on those rocketing decents. They gapped me and Ryan and we just never could make it up. It certainly wasn't the best race I have ever run, I'm not sure I would even call it a good race, but as I crossed the line in 4th and fell to the ground dry heaving and ready to pass out, I knew I had given the best effort I could on that day.
-Sam Williams
-Sam Williams
States- Austin Pondel
Hey,
My name's Austin Pondel. Im a junior from Corry ( District 10) and finished 23rd in the AAA state meet. With the State XC meet completed it was deffinitaly what I expected with being up front. For me I have come along way and have made huge leaps and gains from year to year. My freshman pr for XC was 18:02, my soph year I ran 17:20 and got 103rd at the AAA state race and this year I droppped 49 secs off my state time from last year with a 16:31.
My name's Austin Pondel. Im a junior from Corry ( District 10) and finished 23rd in the AAA state meet. With the State XC meet completed it was deffinitaly what I expected with being up front. For me I have come along way and have made huge leaps and gains from year to year. My freshman pr for XC was 18:02, my soph year I ran 17:20 and got 103rd at the AAA state race and this year I droppped 49 secs off my state time from last year with a 16:31.
States- Alec Kunzweiler
First of all I would like to congratulate all of the state runners and it's awesome to see my junior class come out with some top spots this year.
This year has been such a change for me. As some people may know I spent my freshman and sophomore year playing soccer instead of running cross and to come out with a state medal this year was beyond my greatest expectations. Looking back it is amazing to see my own progressions as well as the progression of the team. We went from losing our first two dual meets to being 11th in the team standings at states with four first year runners as well as losing three major contributors to last years team. I am optimistic for next year because we are returning our entire varsity squad and it's going to be fun taking on the top teams in the state.
I look forward to competing in track this year as my cross season is now over, and I hope to see many familiar names as well as some new ones dropping some fast times.
-Alec Kunzweiler
This year has been such a change for me. As some people may know I spent my freshman and sophomore year playing soccer instead of running cross and to come out with a state medal this year was beyond my greatest expectations. Looking back it is amazing to see my own progressions as well as the progression of the team. We went from losing our first two dual meets to being 11th in the team standings at states with four first year runners as well as losing three major contributors to last years team. I am optimistic for next year because we are returning our entire varsity squad and it's going to be fun taking on the top teams in the state.
I look forward to competing in track this year as my cross season is now over, and I hope to see many familiar names as well as some new ones dropping some fast times.
-Alec Kunzweiler
States- Ned Wilig
I would first like to start by congratulating Conner Quinn, Brendan Shearn, Meghan McGovern and Angel Piccirillo on their victories. They are all great kids and are very deserving of a state title.
For me, the thrill of cross-country has always been team-oriented. Any success I had personally is a result of the team and my coaches. Our team had a great season. While there were many ups and downs, we meshed together to have strong championship performances. Our best race by far was Districts last week. We struggled on the Hershey course and did not have our best performance. We did better than last year, and I am sure the team will do even better next year. It was a fun season and a nice way to finish off high school cross-country. I am very proud of the Great Valley team and want to thank them for being so supportive these past four years.
While I am very happy that I finished in the top 10 at States, it was not my smartest race. I was nearly in dead last at the first turn (300 meters in). Somehow I managed to make my way up to 64th by the first mile. I worked the hills and made it into the top 30 by mile two. I was in the top 20 with 800 to go and passed the remaining 11 guys in the last 400 meters. My whole team got out too slow and Matt had to pause to fix his shoe so we didn’t have our best day.
There are many complaints I have about the course, especially with regards to safety and maneuverability, but it would really be beating a dead horse. My advice to runners who qualify for States and are subjected to run the Hershey course is this: If you want any chance at placing high, you HAVE to sprint the first 400 meters. By the time there is room to really catch people it is too late. It took me four years running the course to learn that. I sincerely hope the PIAA changes the location of the State Championships, because Hershey Park is far from the ideal place to host a high-caliber cross-country race.
States was my last race for high school cross-country and I am extremely proud to have medalled. It was a great way to finish up my four years of cross country.
My indoor track season is going to revolve around the Distance Medley Relay. Our team has high expectations for the season, and I believe we have the potential to be really competitive at States.
Good luck to everyone competing at Footlockers and NXN!
-Ned Willig
For me, the thrill of cross-country has always been team-oriented. Any success I had personally is a result of the team and my coaches. Our team had a great season. While there were many ups and downs, we meshed together to have strong championship performances. Our best race by far was Districts last week. We struggled on the Hershey course and did not have our best performance. We did better than last year, and I am sure the team will do even better next year. It was a fun season and a nice way to finish off high school cross-country. I am very proud of the Great Valley team and want to thank them for being so supportive these past four years.
While I am very happy that I finished in the top 10 at States, it was not my smartest race. I was nearly in dead last at the first turn (300 meters in). Somehow I managed to make my way up to 64th by the first mile. I worked the hills and made it into the top 30 by mile two. I was in the top 20 with 800 to go and passed the remaining 11 guys in the last 400 meters. My whole team got out too slow and Matt had to pause to fix his shoe so we didn’t have our best day.
There are many complaints I have about the course, especially with regards to safety and maneuverability, but it would really be beating a dead horse. My advice to runners who qualify for States and are subjected to run the Hershey course is this: If you want any chance at placing high, you HAVE to sprint the first 400 meters. By the time there is room to really catch people it is too late. It took me four years running the course to learn that. I sincerely hope the PIAA changes the location of the State Championships, because Hershey Park is far from the ideal place to host a high-caliber cross-country race.
States was my last race for high school cross-country and I am extremely proud to have medalled. It was a great way to finish up my four years of cross country.
My indoor track season is going to revolve around the Distance Medley Relay. Our team has high expectations for the season, and I believe we have the potential to be really competitive at States.
Good luck to everyone competing at Footlockers and NXN!
-Ned Willig
States- The Altoona Boys
Trainstation, this is the first in hopefully a series of race summaries about this past Saturday's state meet. I've been in contact with a lot of people so far and I have already gotten some great feedback. Anyone else who wants to contribute their opinion/experience please let me know. Any additions will really help improve the blog and help future runners learn how to run a difficult state meet and course.
Now on to our first summary. Altoona was a top 5 team in the state a year ago, and had a very nice showing at the NXN regional meet, including a national qualifying performance from state meet runner up Wade Endress. Although Wade grabbed a lot of headlines last fall, he continually mentioned his young teammates and how they would be state contenders the following fall. Korey Replogle and Dylan Mountain certainly lived up to that hype this season. Korey,the 25th place finisher from 2010, and Dylan, the 115th finisher from 2010, both had impressive finishes at various invitationals this year. Dylan had some early season invite golds before sickness struck him at Carlisle and Korey began his climb back up the rankings finishing well at both Carlisle and Paul Short. At Tri States and Districts Mountain and Replogle traded top finishes, and both came into states confident.
Unfortunately, snow was not in the plans of most district meet organizers and the District 6 meet was not on its normal day (Saturday) but instead was held on Monday. 2 less days of rest for two top 10 caliber runners. 2 less days to fine tune their training and prepare for the biggest meet of the season.
But the Altoona boys were not men of excuses. Korey came into the race, a rough pre meet night complete with a soar throat and lack of sleep behind him, staying confident in the pre race warm up. Within the race, however, a lot of the negative factors he was facing added up. "I just never made a move it felt like the same race as last year for me. I didn't make any moves to push myself which sucks because I know I could have done a lot better than what I showed but I guess I just have to move on and make the best of it now." Korey said about his race. He still managed a 24th place finish and his second state medal, an achievement few can boast about. He managed to dig down deep and pass two runners on the finishing straightaway to guarentee his spot on the medal podium.
For Dylan, the race was all about redemption from a year ago. The confidence he gained from running extremely well at the Tri State meet and the determination he had to perform above expectations motivated him during his pre race warm up at Hershey. It was a hard experience last year, even when Dylan felt like he was moving quickly, he was still getting passed. So this year had to be different. Dylan ran a tough race, finding himself closing in on his goal coming down the steep downhill towards the finish at Hershey he was sitting in 9th place. But just like Korey, things caught up to Dylan and a large group chased him down and went by, pinning him in the back of a pack he would not be able to fight back through.
Even in his most painful moments of the race, Dylan pushed onward, remembering his race a year ago. Ultimately his perserverance paid off in a 21st place finish and his first state medal. A memory which he says he will remember forever.
Both Dylan and Korey are considering running the Footlocker Regional meet as a form of redemption for their slightly disappointing finishes at the state championship. The duo of Joe Kush and Juris Silienks comes to mind when thinking of these two runners and their similar quest for redemption.
There are certainly big things in these two runners future, not only if these chose to run the Footlocker Regional meet, but also on the track, where each runner feels they can run much faster than ever before.
Now on to our first summary. Altoona was a top 5 team in the state a year ago, and had a very nice showing at the NXN regional meet, including a national qualifying performance from state meet runner up Wade Endress. Although Wade grabbed a lot of headlines last fall, he continually mentioned his young teammates and how they would be state contenders the following fall. Korey Replogle and Dylan Mountain certainly lived up to that hype this season. Korey,the 25th place finisher from 2010, and Dylan, the 115th finisher from 2010, both had impressive finishes at various invitationals this year. Dylan had some early season invite golds before sickness struck him at Carlisle and Korey began his climb back up the rankings finishing well at both Carlisle and Paul Short. At Tri States and Districts Mountain and Replogle traded top finishes, and both came into states confident.
Unfortunately, snow was not in the plans of most district meet organizers and the District 6 meet was not on its normal day (Saturday) but instead was held on Monday. 2 less days of rest for two top 10 caliber runners. 2 less days to fine tune their training and prepare for the biggest meet of the season.
But the Altoona boys were not men of excuses. Korey came into the race, a rough pre meet night complete with a soar throat and lack of sleep behind him, staying confident in the pre race warm up. Within the race, however, a lot of the negative factors he was facing added up. "I just never made a move it felt like the same race as last year for me. I didn't make any moves to push myself which sucks because I know I could have done a lot better than what I showed but I guess I just have to move on and make the best of it now." Korey said about his race. He still managed a 24th place finish and his second state medal, an achievement few can boast about. He managed to dig down deep and pass two runners on the finishing straightaway to guarentee his spot on the medal podium.
For Dylan, the race was all about redemption from a year ago. The confidence he gained from running extremely well at the Tri State meet and the determination he had to perform above expectations motivated him during his pre race warm up at Hershey. It was a hard experience last year, even when Dylan felt like he was moving quickly, he was still getting passed. So this year had to be different. Dylan ran a tough race, finding himself closing in on his goal coming down the steep downhill towards the finish at Hershey he was sitting in 9th place. But just like Korey, things caught up to Dylan and a large group chased him down and went by, pinning him in the back of a pack he would not be able to fight back through.
Even in his most painful moments of the race, Dylan pushed onward, remembering his race a year ago. Ultimately his perserverance paid off in a 21st place finish and his first state medal. A memory which he says he will remember forever.
Both Dylan and Korey are considering running the Footlocker Regional meet as a form of redemption for their slightly disappointing finishes at the state championship. The duo of Joe Kush and Juris Silienks comes to mind when thinking of these two runners and their similar quest for redemption.
There are certainly big things in these two runners future, not only if these chose to run the Footlocker Regional meet, but also on the track, where each runner feels they can run much faster than ever before.
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