10/28/09 (thanks to Kate Reese for putting together these results!)

Mayor's Cup
Joe Dare battled muddy conditions and stiff competition to finish 32nd (25:48) in the prestigious Mayor's Cup XC race at Boston's Franklin Park Fellow LaSalle alum and Puma athlete Sean Quigley would go on to win the race in an exciting sprint finish.

Chicago Marathon
Ted Callinan capitalized on cool weather, cloudy skies and a fast course to run 2:24:58 at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Callinan’s time was only a few minutes off of his 2:21:22 personal best.

Topsfield Cross Country Festival
On Sunday, October 4th the PRTC women took second place at the Topsfield Cross Country Festival in Topsfield, MA. The festival, hosted by the Greater Boston Track Club and Puma, drew clubs from New York, Maryland and Pennsylvania. Long-time PRTC member Claire Duncan continued her recent stretch of racing success with a second-place finish behind Riadha's Kristin Anderson. Duncan completed the challenging 5K course in a time of 18:17, fully 40 seconds ahead of the third place finisher and 30 seconds faster than the previous year’s winning time. PRTC’s second runner, Kate Reese, finished fifth overall in 18:55, while PRTC newcomers Erin Fisher, Heidi Bretscher and Erinn Kimm finished 11th, 14th, and 16th, respectively.

Philadelphia Distance Run
On September 20th, 2009 Philadelphia hosted the 32nd annual ING Distance Run, and PRTC had an extremely strong showing in both individual and team scoring. Tom Haxton (1:07:58) and Ted Callinan (1:07:40) finished 19th and 22nd overall, while the men’s team (comprised of Pat Ward, Mike Daigeaun, and Fran Coyne) finished 1st in the Club Open division. Ward (1:09:41), Daigeaun (1:12:30) and Coyne (1:17:09) finished 29th, 63rd and 126th, respectively.  

Claire Duncan was the first female Philadelphia finisher, completing the course in 1:17:58. Duncan finished only a minute ahead of PRTC newcomer Emily McGregor, whose 1:18:41 was good enough for a 15th place finish in the women’s division. In team scoring the PRTC women placed second, as Erin Fisher, Laura Onderko and Heidi Bretscher all posted strong finishing times (1:23:06, 1:24:47 and 1:25:32).

The Belmar Five
On Saturday, July 11th three PRTC runners competed in The Belmar Five. Ryan Fennelly finished third overall in a time of 24:57, while Patrick Ward placed 9th overall with a time of 26:21. Laura Onderko continued a strong season of racing, as her 29:01 ensured a second place finish in the women’s division.

Media 5 Mile Run
On June 19th Ryan Fennelly, Laura Onderko and Fran Coyne participated in the 30th Media 5 Mile Run. Ryan Fennelly finished second overall with a time of 25:47, while Fran Coyne finished 24th with a time of 29:10. Laura Onderko was the sole representative from the PRTC women’s team, finishing first among women with a time of 30:10.

Broad Street
PRTC had a strong showing from both the men’s and women’s teams at the 30th Annual Blue Cross Broad Street Run. Ted Callinan was the first PRTC male to cross the line, finishing 12th overall in a time of 51:05. Callinan edged teammate Tom Haxton, whose time of 51:11 secured 13th place. Joe Dare faded to 17th after running an aggressive first few miles; Dare was followed by Ross Martinson, whose 52:07 signaled his continued recovery from a recent injury.

On the women’s side, Laura Onderko finished 8th overall with a time of 1:00:02. She was followed by longtime PRTC standout runner Abby Dean; Dean finished 18th overall in 1:02:23. Recent Elizabethtown graduate Erin Fisher also finished in the top 25, completing the ten-mile course in 1:03:29. 

5th Annual Teal Ribbon 5K Race Against Time
PRTC runners Ryan Fennelly, Tom Haxton, Laura Onderko, Abby Dean and Kate Reese all competed in the 5th Annual Teal Ribbon 5K held on May 23rd. The race, which started and finished at the Carousel House in Fairmount Park, boasted a fast and scenic course. Fennelly and Haxton took first and second, finishing in 15:22 and 15:28, respectively. Onderko, Dean and Reese swept the first three places in the women’s division, running 17:54, 18:23 and 18:28.

Boston Marathon
Four PRTC members competed in the 113th Boston Marathon held on April 20, 2009. Laura Onderko and Kate Bowser each ran 2:58:46 to finish 57th and 58th; remarkably, the two did not race together and discovered their identical finishing times only after completing the race. On the men’s side, Ross Martinson finished with a solid time of 2:30:23, while Fran Coyne ran a tough race and ultimately completed the challenging course in 2:55:29.

February 21st, 2009

MATT BYRNE RETURNS TO SNOWY VAIL, CO FOR SECOND PLACE AT THE VAC VAIL MOUNTAIN WINTER UPHILL. IN LATE NEWS, JOE DARE TOOK 61ST IN THE USATF CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS FEBRUARY 7TH.

Choosing Yak Trax for extra traction, Byrne took 2nd to fellow US Mountain Team member Ricky Gates. The race, straight up a ski slope in Vail, CO, was designed to be tough, not fast. Matt cover the 2 mile plus course in 34:00, while Gates would go on to set a new course record. Matt, competing for the first time in a snow race (and at altitude), put in a tremendous effort, and learned what footwear works best on slippery slopes!

Joe Dare took on another tough course and even tougher competition at this years USATF Cross Country National Championships. Out hard on the tough Maryland course, Joe stayed close to the numerous Olympians and NCAA champions that competed in the race. 2004 Olympic Marathon silver medalist Meb Keflezighi would go on to be the eventual winner (while Ardmore, PA resident and Vilanova grad Bobby Curtis finished 3rd). For Joe the race would prove a great learning experience, showing he could mix it up with just about anyone.

February 14 th, 2009

RYAN FENNELLY QUALIFIES FOR USATF INDOORS WITH CLUB RECORD 7:59.64! LAURA ONDERKO, KATE REESE, KATE BOWSER, PILAR BARTLET, TOM HAXTON, AND ROSS MARTINSON DOUBLE UP AT FEEL THE LOVE 5K.

Fresh off his 4:06 mile PR, Ryan Fennelly made his way up to Boston for the Valentine's Day invite at the Armoury in Boston. With an eye toward qualifing for USATF indoor nationals, Ryan kept close to the pacer through the mile, before settling on phenom Martin Fagan's shoulder. Coming through in blistering times left Ryan unfazed and looking for the win. With 300m to go, Ryan was sitting pretty in 2nd place and working hard for a fast finish. His 7:59:.64 would qualify him for USATF Indoor nationals, while taking 14 seconds off the existing club 3k record!

While PRTC stalwart Ryan Fennelly was preparing for his blistering 3K in Boston, a small contingent of club runners and their spouses enjoyed beautiful weather and a fast course at the 3rd annual Feel the Love 5K.

Ross Martinson and Tom Haxton battled it out for the overall win, with Haxton edging his lanky rival for the victory; the two were so close that final results list each at 15:04. On the women’s side, PRTC newcomers Laura Onderko and Kate Reese posted strong finishes in 17:35 and 17:46, respectively. Kate Bowser also ran well, setting a new PR of 18:23 after taking the pace early with eventual winner Liz Haglund.

In the “Lovers” category of team scoring, Ross and Kerry Martinson were unable to catch the devastating duo of JB and Liz Haglund, who set a new course record with their combined time of 32:53.  Yet the Martinsons combined time of 35:41 was enough for second and a decisive victory over 4th place finishers Tom and Clarisse Haxton (combined score 36:11).

PRTC swept both the “Mixed” and “Same Sex” categories of team scoring. Kate Bowser and Rob Schiff ran a combined time of 34:16, while Laura Onderko and Kate Reese posted a combined time of 35:21, fully six minutes ahead of their closest competitors.

January 25th, 2009

In 2003 the then Philadelphia Track Club took on hometown rivals the Bryn Mawr Running Company in an epic race known as the Battle Royale. The race of the years has become a tradition for both clubs to return to old school cross country racing. This year's version at Belmont Plateau may have been the smallest, but it still lived up to it's reputation. Race organizers decided to lengthen this year's race to 5 miles, two outer loops, one inner loop, and two more outer loops, while the women ran the traditional 5k course.

Despite freezing temperatures (28 degrees at race time) the race drew a fair number of runners and even a few hearty spectators looking for a good show. In battle for first place in the men's race they were not disappointed.

Ryan Fennelly and Karl Savage of the Jenkintown Running Company (and Ryan's roommate) quickly broke away from the field after their first trip up Flag Pole hill. Tom Haxton and new teammates Malcolm Richards and Joe Dare took chores up front of the chase pack. By the time Ryan and Karl entered the woods they had a clear lead over the rest of the field.

Just before exiting the woods Karl put a surge on Ryan hoping to break him on the third charge up Flagpole hill. Exiting the woods in third was Darryl Brown of the Chester County Running Company followed by Malcolm and Tom. Karl still had the lead headed up Flagpole for the last time, but by now Ryan had closed the gap. On the downhill after Ryan started making his drive to the finish. Karl, a former World XC team member mind you, was sure to stick right on Ryan. However, using the strength he showed in his 4:06 mile the week before Ryan held Karl off for the impressive win by a mere two seconds.

Chester County Running Co.’s Darryl Brown closed well while Malcolm and Tom rounded out the top five. In the end once again PRTC claimed the team title with a cumulative time of 1:16:50 for it's top 3 (this year's race was scored on the cumulative time of the top 3 men and top 2 women from each team)

The women's race proved to be a run away for Liz Haglund of the Bryn Mawr Running Company. Prepping for next weekend's US XC Championships in Maryland Liz set a torrent pace from the start to finish in 18:14. The PRTC ladies though matched the men by winning the team title in 38:29. Using a crop of new comers Laura Onderko, Kate Reese, and Kate Bowser proved that the PRTC ladies continue to expand and show dedication.

11-12 October 2008

IN HOMETOWN OF SCRANTON, MATT BYRNE TAKES 4TH IN COMPETITIVE STEAMTOWN MARATHON; ABBY DEAN CONTINUES A STRONG RACING SEASON WITH 5TH PLACE IN A HILLY BALTIMORE HALF MARATHON

5 September-4 October 2008

TOP PHILADELPHIA FINISHERS AT PDR; BYRNE REPRESENTS US IN WORLD MOUNTAIN RUNNING CHAMPS; FAST TIMES ON THE STREETS OF DOWNINGTOWN; CLAIRE DUNCAN RETURNS TO XC ROOTS AT PAUL SHORT INVITE; FENN AND KATE-B JUST MISS CRYSTAL BOWLS IN NOTRE DAME 5K; AGE GROUP CHAMPS AT THE PARKWAY RUN; KATE-R TAKES TITLE IN HAVERFORD ALUMNI RACE; HAXTON MAKES QUICK RECOVERY TO PLACE 3RD AT THE HAND'S ON HALF MARATHON

September was a busy month for PRTC, with races as far as Switzerland and as close as Philadelphia.

Byrne and Dean take top Philadelphian honors at the Philadelphia Distance Run. As always, a world class field came in to compete in the nation's premier half marathon. On the women's side, Abby Dean (11th), Claire Duncan (13th), Meredith Lambert (19th), Shannon Klick (31st), and Kate Bowser(40th) battled with former teammate turned rival Veena Reddy (10th). All turned in outstanding,PR or near PR performances, with Abby, Claire and Meredith all posting top-ten PRTC performances.
For the men, Ross Martinson (15th), Matt Byrne, (20th), Tom Haxton (23rd), Ted Callinan (29th), and Fran Coyne all took advantage of the clear skies and fast course, dealing with their own former teammates Dan McGrath and Wylie Belasik, who turned in great races. Matt and Abby would both claim the top Philadelphia honors (and the $1k that goes with it), while Ross and Claire would join them among the top 5 Americans.

17-24 August, 2008

TWIN VICTORIES IN STONE HARBOR FOR PAT WARD AND ABBY DEAN; ABBY DEAN STALKS TIMBERMAN WITH INCREDIBLE HALF MARATHON

Abby Dean and Pat Ward played beach patrol with wins at the Lions Club Stone Harbor 10k. A weekend down the shore means rest and relaxation for some, but for avid racers in late August it means the Stone Harbor 10k and 5k. A warm morning and full sunshine kept beach goers happy but meant difficult conditions for racers. Patwould find himself battling the 5k winner early on, coming through around 16:20. Competition would fade in the second half, as Pat increased his lead to come through unofficially in 33:30 to win by over a minute. Pat looks forward to testing his fitness at the Battle Royale in early September.

On the women's side Abby would lead the women's field from the start, finding some competition among many of the men in the field. Despite having competed in a half ironman just a week before, the Stone Harbor race would be just what she needed to spring back into the running scene. Abby won handily, in an unofficial time of 37:30.

In spite of hydration and nutrition snafu's, Abby Dean completes her tri season with a fast showing at the Timberman Triathlon. Rough water made the swim perilous, but even lacking as much pool time as previous years, Abby managed to come out of the water faster than ever. The bike was a beautiful course with rolling hills and temperatures in the 70's. Abby again beat her previous best, but lost her water bottle early on in the race. Hydration and nutrition are a huge component of longer triathlons and loosing this edge is never ideal. Abby would push on with the race she was given, and continue to hammer on the bike. Despite being hampered by the lost bottle, Abby found she could still move fast on the 2 loop run course. Legs on fire and temperatures rising. she continued to pass people and go on to a stellar finish. Her run would be the 12th fastest of the day (that includes all male finishers) and 2nd fastest female to pro triathlete Chrissie Wellington, who just won the Kona Tri. Abby finished 2nd in her age group, 7th amateur overall, and earned a berth in the 1/2 ironman world championships this November in Florida.

31 JULY, 2008

MATT BYRNE NAMED TO 2008 US MOUNTAIN RUNNING TEAM!

One of PRTC's earliest members, Matt Byrne, has qualified for the US Mountain Running Team. Matt will compete with the team at the World Mountain Running Trophy Championships September 14th in Sierre Crans-Montana, Switzerland. Although an official press release has not yet been issued, Matt was offered the spot earlier this week.

Matt earned his spot with great performances at both the Mt. Washington Road Race and the Berry Picker Trail Run in Vail, CO. A newcomer to the sport of Mountain/Trail running, Byrne has made the transition from the roads look easy. At Mt Washington he finished in 6th place, gaining valuable insight into uphill running. That insight would prove invaluable at the Berry Picker Race, where pacing and mental toughness would place him in 2nd, and secure his spot on the team.

20 JULY 2008
New York, NY; Vail, CO

MATT BYRNE MAKES SERIOUS BID FOR US MOUNTAIN RUNNING TEAM AT BERRY PICKER TRAIL RACE; ABBY DEAN CONTINUES TO IMPRESS ON THE TRI SCENE

2-Time U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials qualifier Matt Byrne has set his sights on making the U.S. Mountain Running Team. The team of 6 will compete at the prestigious World Mountain Running Trophy Championships this September in Switzerland. The team is selected from two races, the MT Washington Road Race and the Berry Picker Trail Race.
At Mt. Washington Matt finished an impressive 6th place in his first ever mountain race, narrowly missing an automatic bid for the US Mountain Team. Making the team would require him to race at his peak potential in the Vail, CO Berry Picker race.

The 4.3 mile Berry Picker would prove to be a different animal from Mt Washington, as Matt would call the course "...the most technically challenging course I've ever seen." The racers went out hard over the first section, a rolling 1.3 miles stretch that would be the easy part of the course. Matt stayed conservative, going into the first steep stretch in 6th place.

The next 3 miles would climb over 2000 feet, giving the race an overall grade of 12%! To make it tougher the course consisted of rugged single track with occasional stretches of double wide gravel trails. It would be over this grueling course that Matt began to advance.

All five competitors ahead of Matt knew they would need a good showing to make the U.S. Team. Only the winners spot was assured, the remaining spot would go to committee based on performances at both Mt. Washington and the Berry Picker. Matt pushed hard as soon as the real climbing began, quickly moving into 3rd place. Coming through 2 miles found Matt moving into 2nd place and looking ahead to Simon Gutierrez. Gutierrez, who has qualified for 7 straight Mountain teams, and is 2 time defending World Masters Mountain Running champion, showed his experience with the mountains and slowly pulled away.

Resisting challenges from fellow east coaster Shiloh Mielke, Matt continued on to place 2nd overall. Anyone who has run with Matt knows he has always been tough on hills, but now he has proved it nationally. Matt's 2nd place finish makes him a strong candidate for a spot on the US Mountain Running team whose roster should be announced soon. We'll keep you posted!

Abby Dean Continues to dominate the headlines with her 13th place finish in the Elite Division of the New York City Triathlon. Thousands fought the heat and humidity in what has become one of the premier triathlon events in the country. Last weeks strong showing by Abby would continue with this weeks NYC Tri. Olympic distance means a longer swim, longer bike, and a 10k run. The 1500 meter swim in the Hudson is one of the fastest, and Abby cruised through in 20:32. The 40k bike continued up the Henry Hudson Highway out of Manhattan and through the Bronx, giving riders a hilly tour of the city.

The run would continue on the northern loop of Central Park, and here is where the heat took it's toll on most of the athletes. Abby would add another strong finish to her resume, with one of the fastest runs of the day (37:42).

15 June, 2008
Philadelphia, PA

MEN'S AND WOMEN'S TEAM SHINE AT FATHER'S DAY 5K

On Father's Day, three members of the men's team took part in a charity race that was founded to help "eradicate prostate cancer as a life and quality-of-life threatening disease by helping to advance awareness and research." The race had big sponsors from the Philadelphia area, such as 6ABC. And the race helped raise $93,896 on the day!
 
Held on Martin Luther King Boulevard at the foot of the Schuylkill River, Ryan, Tim, and Ross used the opportunity to also keep their legs sharp. At the gun, Ryan took the first 800m out quickly. Ross and the eventual winner (an unkown Kenyan - name is not listed in the results) caught up with Fenn after the first half mile. The trio came through the mile in 4:41. Then at the 1.5 mile turnaround, the Kenyan made a big surge. Ryan and Ross were not able to stay even with the leader. The two ran together, each surging briefly to try to help each other recapture the lead. The two passed two miles in 9:35. Fenn pulled away from Ross with about 700m to go and ran 14:55. Ryan described it as a "decent effort for a hot and humid morning." On losing his battle with Fenn in the latter stages of the race, Ross (15:04) reflected that he did not have "a good finish, but since I've been feeling like crap, I guess it was okay. Good atmosphere at the race though."
 
Meanwhile, Tim found himself behind that trio, yet ahead of the rest of the field. Tim labored from start to finish on his own, but he was fine with that. "I wanted a faster time," Tim (15:56) said afterwards. "But it was hot and humid, and I ran the whole thing alone. But this sets me up to race again this Friday [at the Media 5 Miler].
 
IN THE WOMEN'S RACE, the overall win was captured by another woman. But the dash for the cash was won by a young and spry Kate Taylor (nee Fonshell). Now 38 years young, Kate showed the talent that made her a U.S. National 10,000m champion in the 1990's. Kate was clocked in 17:34. But Kate was closely followed by no less than three PRTC women! Claire finished a mere six seconds astride of Kate, running 17:40 (a road PR for Claire). Abby showed no ill-effects from her high Spring mileage, running 17:52. New team member Kate Reese rounded out the team results, running 18:39 for fifth place. 

1 June, 2008
Sellersville, PA

JOE DARE GRABS THE WIN IN HIS FIRST RACE FOR PRTC

Meet Joe Dare. Joe is a recent graduate of La Salle University. While a student at La Salle, Joe ran some impressive times, including a 14:14 5k and a 29:25. Joe hopes to parley those track times into the speed and efficiency needed to eventually run close to 29 minutes for 10 and qualify for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials. You can read all of Joe's stats on the PRTC Bios page.  
 
On Sunday, Joe ran his first race for PRTC. This race was a low-key Summer 5k on the roads. Joe picked up the win and some cash for his efforts. "It was a nice day and a nice course," Joe remarked with optimism. Joe plans on continuing a string of Summer races. He will take to the roads again the weekend of June 21 - 22.
 

31 May, 2008
Lancaster and Forty Fort, PA; Reston, VA

NESBITT AND BYRNE WIN FIVE MILERS ON THE ROAD; BORGHUIS FINISHES FOURTH IN FOUR MILER

On Saturday morning, Drew Nesbitt, Matt Byrne, and Bart Borghuis all took to the roads in races. Drew was racing the Red Rose Run in Lancaster, Matt was running the Old Fort Five Miler in Forty Fort, and Bart was running the We Got Your Back 4 Miler.
 
In Lancaster, Drew found hot and humid skies. Drew recalled that "At the start, I noticed most of the usual top-notch competition was missing from the start line. So I took the race out hard - 4:50. 4:53, and 5:15. I was alone with only two miles and some hills to go. I cruised home with some 5:30's and really enjoyed winning one of the biggest races in Lancaster County." Our man was the clear winner by 40 seconds. Drew is taking his fitness to the big stage in a few weeks, competing in the Utica Boilermaker in upstate New York.
 
In Forty Fort, Matt was not able to employ the same "run away early" strategy, as the eventual second place finisher Chris Wadas ran stride for stride with Matt for the first three miles. "I could still hear his footsteps right behind me," Matt said. "I just wanted to keep up an under-5:10 (per mile) pace. But at around mile four, Chris dropped off the pace a bit. And I was able to hold him off for the win. But Chris didn't fall apart. He stayed close the entire way. He ran a very good race."
 
In Reston, Bart took part in a big race with a $1000 total prize purse. Such money attracted some fast runners, including some local Africans and top D.C. area Americans. Bart recounted that the field "went out hard, and I just went with it."
 
The course was run on a hard-top bike trail, but there were some long and shorter up and downs. Bart's recollection of the hard start were accurate, as he split 4:41 and 4:38 for his first two miles! "I think the hard start and some uphills on the way back cost time, but [I] finished in 19:55 for 4th. [I'm] pretty happy. It felt good to average under 5 minute pace. [It was] also, cool to be in an environment where, in these races, the leaders are not too fast that I can't give it a shot, and try to hang with them." Bart's time was good enough to tie him for #8 on the PRTC All-Time list!
 
To read more about the exploits of our guys on this weekend, click on the links below. These links will also be archived on our PRTC in Print  page.
 
Nesbitt Wins a Muggy Run
 
Byrne Has Emotion Packed Win
 
Upcoming:

Since it is a quiet time of year for the team, there are some unusual races coming up for our athletes. Ross is scheduled to pace Bryn Mawr Running Coompany owner Bob Schwelm in a track two mile race to help qualify Bob for the master's two mile race to be held during the Olympic Track Trials in Eugene. Ted is competing in the Philly Tri relay race along with his brothers-in-law. Ted will be covering the 10k running leg of this relay. And in the last weekend in June, Ted and Tim are 'supposed' to run a road 10k in Clare, Ireland while on a trip for a family reunion. But the first night of celebrations is the night before this 10k, so all plans are tentative.

25 May, 2008
Philadelphia, PA

FENN WINS TEAL RIBBON 5k; REESE FINISHES SECOND IN WOMEN'S RACE

For such a small race, the men's field at the Teal Ribbon 5k had two very capable runners on hand. The top two men both ran their collegiate days at La Salle University. PRTC member Ryan Fennelly just graduated from the Jesuit school a few years ago, while Joe Dare just graduated a few weeks ago. Both have stellar 5k PR's, so this was going to be a good one.

The two covered the first mile in 4:44. Then the course had some curves, which apparently confused Fennelly. He soon put himself back on track and made up the difference between he and Dare. Fennelly then pushed ahead and won the race in 15:05. Joe Dare, who was convinced to join PRTC after discussing his running prospects with Fennelly after the race, finished second.

In the women's race, recent addition to the club Kate Reese followed up her stellar Spring marathon with a second place finish here in 18:24.

The club again welcomes not only Kate Reese, but brand new member Joe Dare as well. Look for more information about PRTC's new athletes in the coming weeks.

24 May, 2008
Spring Lake, NJ

NESBITT AND CALLINAN TAKE ON BIGGEST FIVE MILER IN THE U.S.

Drew Nesbitt and Tim Callinan hit the shore on Memorial Day weekend. But these two people didn't have sandcastles on their minds. They had racing. And the Spring Lake Five Miler on the central Jersey shore provides the biggest five mile road race in the U.S. It annually draws uppers of 10,000 participants! And the large size does not negate the quality field that can be found up front.
 
"The race went great for me; I was really happy with the result. I ran with the top two for most of the race (5 flat pace for 3 miles, 4th in 5:10). But in the fifth mile, I think my inexperience in road racing caught up with me, as I started my kick too early, passed the second place runner, and then faded to fifth."
 
"I hope to put together a solid Summer. Sorry I don't have much more to add, but hopefully I will have a great result this weekend running in my hometown."
 
Tim is continuing to find his way back to form after a long layoff. With an extremely modest goal of simply breaking 27 minutes (Tim has only done about three workouts so far), Tim bettered that post by 51 seconds! Tim gave a balanced account of his run, stating that his "splits were 5:10, 5:13, 5:07, 5:20, 5:13. I was just trying to run even the whole way, but my fourth mile was a little slow."
 
ONE MONTH EARLIER, ON APRIL 26th, ROSS MARTINSON won the Teal Ribbon Ovarian Cancer 5k. Mrs. Martinson (Kerry "I PR'd by several minutes at Broad Street") finished second in the women's race in 20:58!
 

1 May, 2008, Weissensee, Germany; 10 May, 2008, Arlington, VA; 18 May, 2008, Washington, D.C.

CATCHING UP WITH BART BORGHUIS

For almost two months now, Bart has been living in northern Virginia. But his running heart belongs to Philadelphia. This is where he discovered just how much he loves this sport, and this is where he developed his skills. So we felt it was time to check up on our teammate and see how he is managing his hectic new schedule working at Janelia Farm.

At the beginning of May, Bart traveled to Europe for a short vacation with his new bride and his parents. While in Germany, Bart kept seeing fliers for an upcoming race. So Bart decided to test his strength across the ocean and lined up for the First of May, Weissensee Lauf 6k. Actually, Bart said that the race was somewhere around 6.3k, but that the race organizers didn't seem concerned with certainty about this point, the course was indisputable: one loop around the lake.

At first, he said there was a small group of guys, and that a few looked quick. Bart recalled that "One looked a little heavy, but he wound up being the biggest challenge." The man in question was a mountain runner - with strength to match. Thus, Bart's advantage would be the fact that he is lighter and quicker. Bart won the race and ran the second fastest time in 33 years!

Bart was invited to a celebration afterwards in the town's Schutzenhalle (hall with armor - think of Beowulf). Between the unusual race distance and the reception hall, this was definitely different from races that one would find in the U.S. The prizes wound up being different too, as Bart received a cup and a watch made by a local manufacturer. Victory certainly is sweet.

The very next weekend, Bart was back at it. This time, Bart ran "The Battle of the Boulevard", a 10k in Arlington, Virginia, one of Washington DC's many suburbs. The course started at the Pacers store (a running store in the D.C. area with a racing team), took the runners down to the Pentagon, and then back uphill to the start.

"I knew two of the guys from the Cherry Blossom 10 Miler, where finished just seconds apart," Bart explained. Taking the lead in a six man pack, Bart hit the first downshill mile in 4:53. His second mile was a 4:57. Then the runners hit the flats and the pace stayed steady. Bart slowed down some but kept close to the pack. As the runners made their way back on the loop, Bart found himself running stride for stride with frequent racer and Olympic Trials qualifier Michael Wardian. Bart eventually passed Wardian as well as Pacers' Burt Rodriguez, keeping his eyes on the lead runner, Steve Crane.

Bart recounted that with two miles to go, he knew "first place was out of reach. But I kept pushing to the line to stay in front of the other Pacers athletes. It felt great to beat them on their own turf." Bart scored a 10k road PR of 32:16 for second place.

The third and final race of Bart's little circuit, the Capitol Hill Classic 10k was supposed to be on a fast course. But Bart said it was neither flat nor fast "at all." The day was overcast and humid. But the course record holder (Berhanu Zeleeke) was present, so fast times seemed possible.

There were four runners in the lead pack at the beginning, including Bart, as well as Robert Wade and Zeleeke. The latter two runners pushed hard away from the four-man pack. Bart knew that they were running a pace which, on this day, was too quick for him. "I tried to run my own race and PR." Bart didn't wind up setting a new PR from the one he set the previous week, but he said it was "fun to race in downtown Washington D.C., around Capitol Hill and all the buildings. I am trying to use these race to get sharper. I like this distance."

11 April, 2008
Atlantic City, NJ; Philadelphia, PA

PRTC RUNNERS PACE 5k ROAD RACES IN THE CITY AND THE DOWN THE SHORE

As a precursor to the Summer, members of the team traveled to the South Jersey shore on this mother's day weekend. Four of our runners put their feet on the boardwalk for a 5k in Atlantic City. Looking to make her second return to racing in 2008 (Renee Gunning first attempted racing at the Adrenaline 5k, but re-injured herself in the process), Renee showed that the rest and recovery was worthwhile. Renee outlasted friend and former collegiate roommate Sheila Klick for the overall win. Gina Lucrezi was back in town to race for the first time since taking her post at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She finished just outside the top three.

In the men's race, Ryan could not match Renee's performance, having to contend with Kiwi Adrian Blincoe (contending for his second straight Olympic Games appearance in the 1500). Ryan did hit 15 minutes on the nose, though, and picked up second place. Like Renee, her fiancee Bryan Skelly has also been working himself back in to race shape. Just getting on the line is going to help these two move in the right direction. But Bryan knows the work he still has ahead of him, as he missed the winner's circle as well, finishing fourth.

MEANWHILE, CLAIRE KEPT HER RACING CLOSER TO HOME, capturing the overall title at the Philadelphia edition of the Race for the Cure. Claire crossed the line with 17:47 on the clock.

4 May, 2008
Philadelphia, PA

PRTC HAS STRONG SHOWING AT PARADE DOWN BROAD STREET

For the first time in three years, the men's team did not win the team title at the Broad Street 10 Miler. Still, there were good performances turned in by the men and women alike. Add to that a marathon win by a new member of PRTC, and the club seemed to keep its winning ways going.

The weather conditions for Broad Street were certainly favorable, if not optimal. The sky was overcast and it was slightly cool. However, during the race, some runners reported that it was slightly humid, and that the two miles surrounding city hall were somewhat windy.

The race was out fast. Ross said he came through the mile much faster than he planned to (4:45), but he felt comfortable doing it. Tom was als out fast, covering the first mile in 4:53. Both runners wanted to run more even splits, so both of them slowed up their pace. Ross slowed his mile pace back to a 5:04 for the second mile, while Tom ran mile #2 in around 5:00. "I never felt particularly comfortable, though," Tom explained. "I ran with some people in the first half, but it was pretty spread out, mostly due to Ross's strong running in 5th place and those of us behind him not being able to keep up." Ross also noted the difficulty of running alone. ""I thought I was regrouping well late in the race, and I thought I might get the guy in front of me (eventual fourth place finisher Matt Pelletier). But I never caught him," Ross conceded.

Ross covered mile #3 in 4:51 and continued to push towards a sub 50 minute race. Tom was making a valiant effort to achieve his pre-race goal of a 50 minute race, passing the halfway point at 25:01. "But then I started to slow down. I went with Grant Scott and another guy who caught me for a mile or two toward the end. But I started feeling really tired in the ninth mile, lost them, and only ran 5:12 for that mile. I felt a bit better in the last mile." Ross captured fifth place in 49:33, while Tom finished just outside the top ten with a 50:38.

Pat Ward also felt the pressure of going solo after five miles. "After I lost the pack I was with around the 5 mile mark, I started to struggle as I ran by myself into a bit of a headwind. Still, I still ran a P.R. by 42 seconds." Pat smashed his time from last year, which was on a much faster day overall. And if there had been clocks at 8K and 10K, I would have set road P.R.'s for those distances as well!" But Pat wasn't the only member of the men's team to score a PR, as Spencer showed great form, running a personal best 53:24.

IN THE WOMEN'S RACE, ABBY DEAN and SHANNON KLICK ran outstanding races. For Abby, it was a show of resiliency, bouncing back from her phenomenal run at the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials. "I did not know what to expect since I had literally only done four very short, easy runs since the [Olympic] Trials. I was in 3rd place from the very beginning. I very quickly realized that I was definitely not recovered from the marathon or from being sick. Every mile got slower 'til I was able to hold a 6 min pace for the last 5 miles. I kept thinking a female was bound to pass me, but i never heard the crowd cheer for another woman. At no point did i ever feel good... it was by far the hardest race I have ever done! The race winnings [3rd overall, and 1st Philadelphian] made it all worth it," Abby exclaimed. For Shannon, it was yet more proof that her bast races may come in the longer distances, as she set a ten mile PR. The girls ran 58:38 and 1:01.37 respectively.

30 December, 2007
Londonderry, NH

PAT WARD SPICES UP WINTER BREAK WITH A 4TH AT MILLENIUM MILE

On his way to Manchester Airport for his flight back to Philadelphia on Sunday, Pat stopped in nearby North Londonderry, NH to run the Millenium Mile. Pat was glad he decided to do so - scoring a huge PR and finishing 4th in this annual favorite of serious runners! "The last time I ran a race this short was nearly four years ago, so I was pretty surprised with how well this went, especially since I didn't cut back my mileage at all for the race, and I haven't done any workouts approaching mile pace," Pat surmised after the race.

Pat started rather conservatively, going through the 1/4 mile mark in approximately 9th place. After that, he used his strength to just gradually pick people off. With a 1/4 mile to go, Pat found himself in 4th place and still feeling good, so he made his push to pass the 3rd place runner (the last money spot). It wasn't to be, as the runner in third position held Pat off and stopped the clock at 4:07. Pat hit the tape seconds later at 4:10. Yes, this is a road course, and a net downhill at that. But Pat's time was far faster than any 1500 or mile race he has ever run before that it is safe to say this is still a legitimate improvement at the distance for the young PRTC'er. As Pat noted, "Despite the course being significantly aided, I'll take a 15 second P.R. in the mile any day!"

8 December, 2007
West Chester, OH

PRTC FOURSOME TAKES ON CLUB CROSS NATIONALS - GIRLS FINISH IN HIGH IN THE RACE

Claire posted the third fastest 6k of all time for the women's team, and Gina cracked the top 50 in the race to post a solid finish as well! That's some damn fine running by our girls! The weather at Voice of America Park in West Chester, Ohio was formidable for all the athletes. There were frigid temperatues and hardened grass, which can certainly do a number on a runner's calves. Not only that, but the fields for nationals this year were exceptionally large, boasting 32 teams and 235 runners. Yet Claire ran another great race, finishing 37th overall in the national championships and ran 21:48 (this performance only trails the races at last year's edition of the same race run by Gina and Claire herself!)! Gina's performance will be placed just behind Claire's run from this day in the top ten!

The men's race had an even large contingent - with 50 teams and an astounding 422 runners! In addition, the senior men's race is always the last one of the day, which means the ground has been thoroughly chewed up by the four races that were held before this one. Pat Ward continued his big leaps in racing on this day, clocking 35:09 over the uneven ground. Meanwhile, Drew Nesbitt laced up his PRTC spikes for the first time! Admittedly, the race did not go well for Drew on this day, but Drew seems to embody the PRTC spirit, which means he will be back to fight another day.

2 December, 2007
West Chester, PA

MARTINSON TAKES ON THE ROLLING HILLS OF WEST CHESTER

Brian's Run in West Chester, PA has been around for many years. And the race brings out the best of everything. The race is for a good cause (Brian's Run began in 1978 as a one-time fund raising event to benefit Brian Bratcher, a West Chester Henderson High School football player who sustained a life-challenging spinal cord injury at the age of 15 during a scrimmage.). The race course is challenging (Check out the elevation of the course - with its many rolling hills.). And the race field is top notch (It is filled with many foreigners and elite Americans hoping to dip their hands in to the ten places deep money pot!).

On this day, Ross placed himself high on the pecking order, finishing 7th place and earning $125 in the process! Ross was surrounded by foreign runners, making himself only the second American to cross the finish line.

18 November, 2007
Philadelphia, PA

DEAN QUALIFIES FOR OLYMPIC TRIALS; NESBITT AND LAMBERT PERFORM GREAT IN FIRST EFFORT FOR PRTC

Abby did it. She stuck with it. Her previous two efforts to qualify for the Olympic Marathon Trials in April were thwarted by unfavorable weather conditions. And Sunday at the Philadelphia Marathon wasn't exactly perfect weather either. But just as Abby had fought back to line up for her third marathon in the last six months, Abby fought hard when the gun took off to help make her dream come true.

AT THE START OF THE PHILADELPHIA MARATHON, the runners were trying to keep warm from low temperatures, a slight wind, and a bit of drizzle. For Abby, this was her third marathon since June; for Claire, this was her first marathon ever! And with American women looking to punch their tickets to the Olympic Marathon Trials to be held this Spring, the women's field was guaranteed to be deep and fast.

Prior to the race, Abby fleshed out her plans. "My plan was to go out at 6:20 pace or slightly under and just try to hold it. That morning, I talked with one of my coaches, and since it was windy, my strategy was a little different. I would try to not completely rely on mile splits, but rather pay attention to effort. So when the wind was behind me, my splits were much faster. I also knew from previous marathons how much the hills slowed me down. My goal was to try to hit the hills at a harder effort, knowing that after each one, there was a downhill [on which] I could recover.

Abby was with a pack of women for the first few miles, but she felt like their pace was a little too fast for her, so she pulled back. Her move wound up being a "good thing, because I ended up passing one of them around mile 9 or 10 and one them around mile 15. By mile 14, my hamstrings started to cramp up from the cold. I just hoped they would cooperate for the rest of the run.
Trying to run intelligently, Claire passed the Art Museum area protected by a small pack of male runners. Claire hit the half-way mark almost exactly on pace. The clock read 1:23:31 as Claire passed, which was a bit quicker than she had planned. Claire was staying tucked in, hoping to use the line of runners as a buffer against any wind that the runners might face on Kelly Drive. MEANWHILE, IN THE MEN'S RACE, Tom and Bart were looking to exact some revenge from unfavorable weather conditions in their previous marathon outings as well. Tom had enjoyed a speedy recover from the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon and had put in plenty of hard work in the subsequent six weeks. Bart decided to use the second half of the Fall as an experiment to see if under-training might help him find a second peak for the season come race day. As the men's race unfolded, the splits did not suggest a record day. Running the race that was in front of him, however, Tom placed himself high on the pecking order in the early miles. Tom was running in small lead pack, accompanied only by the eventual winner and runner-up of the race. At eight miles, Tom lost contact with the duo and ran most of the next 17 miles alone in third.
AS OUR PRTC GUYS AND GIRLD PROCEEDED ON TO KELLY DRIVE, THE WAIT WAS OFFICIALLY ON.

AS THE FINISHERS STARTED TO CLIMB THEIR WAY FROM LLOYD HALL BACK UP TO THE ART MUSEUM, the PRTC faithful were looking for their teammates. As Tom approached the base of the Art Museum with approximately 750 meters to go, he was joined by Jean-Nicolas Duval and Chris Nirschel. The two had worked together to reel Tom in. But Tom was not about to fall from third place down to fifth. He explained that "I couldn’t match (former steeplechaser) Jean-Nicolas’s furious kick, but I was able to pull away from Chris for the bragging rights of first Philadelphian." Bart also hung tough to help bolster a body of marathon work that will help pay dividends 'down the road.' After our men crossed the line, our women weren't too far behind.

One woman passed Abby on heading East on Kelly Drive, but Abby ended up passing two women not too long after that, so she didn't lose her place for long. Abby recalled that when she reached mile 20, she knew she felt pretty good and was certain that she could make her goal of 2:47. "But you never can be sure at mile 20, so I kept trying to maintain my efforts... When I got back on the Drive, my calves had also started to cramp up. I knew if I could just get through it, I would make my time. At that point, I started doing the calculations in my head to see what pace I could slow down to and still make it. One of my coaches who was out on the Drive started yelling to me that I could catch some of the girls ahead and that there were three women chasing me. That changed my focus, and so for the last four miles or so, I concentrated on trying to get the women I could see ahead of me. It paid off. I ended up passing another woman in the last mile!"

Realizing a goal that she has worked very hard towards, ABBY HIT THE TAPE IN 2:45.21! THE TIME GAVE ABBY A NEW PR AND A QUALIFIER FOR THE 2008 U.S. OLYMPIC MARATHON TRIALS TO BE HELD IN BOSTON THIS COMING APRIL! Claire provided a marathon PR sweep for the women's team, finishing the race in 3:06.41! Analyzing her race, Claire stated that she made it to 17 still fairly close to pace and then swiftly unraveled. "But I'm glad I finished, [and I'm] happy with the effort and excited for the next phase of my marathon training."

IN THE DAY'S TWO OTHER RACES, PRTC ENJOYED GREAT PERFORMANCES FROM TWO NEWCOMERS! In the half marathon, former Princeton Tiger Meredith Lambert showed off her long-distance prowess by finishing second overall in the women's race. Another relative newcomer to the club, Wylie Belasik finished seventeenth in the men's race. Citing law school and a buy schedule, Meredith feels she has been short on training this Fall, making her performance all the more impressive.

DREW NESBITT STUNNED THE TEAM, finishing fourth overall in the annually competitive Rothman Institute 8k. The Rothman Institute 8k has been a long partner to the full marathon and enjoyed deep fields. Drew had never raced 8k on the roads and took a decisive chop off his 8k PR (25:33) on the day! Drew ran a very impressive 24:40, suggesting that he can translate his 1500m skills in to mid-distance success. The start of the 8k found the men's field running extremely conservatively, passing the mile in 5:00. But Drew, along with Pat Ward, made sure they kept with the leaders to separate themselves from the masses on Kelly Drive. Pat continued his full racing Fall by running a PR 25:24!

Overall, PRTC placed many runners in each race and provided great performances and PRs to boot! It was a great way to represent the team and running in our hometown.

4 November, 2007
Camden, NJ

DEAN PREPARES FOR PHILADELPHIA MARATHON WITH BEN FRANKLIN BRIDGE CHALLENGE 10K

On November 18th, Abby Dean will look to right the wrongs that occured at the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon in October. On that day in Chicago, Abby did everything right, but the weather for the athletes was completely wrong. At start time, the weather was hot and humid. And the temperature climbed through the race to boot! Despite all that, Abby finished with a fine 2:56. Unfortunately, 2:56 doesn't get you in to the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials to be held in Boston this coming April. Abby has proven many times before that she is capable, and her effort in Chicago tells her she can do it again.

So Abby set her sights on the Philadelphia Marathon to be run on November 18th. As such, Abby scheduled one last tune-up race. The Ben Franklin Bridge Run 10k would suit her needs perfectly. The race always has a highly competitive field and is run on a very challenging course. The race starts at the foot of the Ben Franklin Bridge in Camden. The runners climb over the bridge to the Philadelphia side, immediately turn and climb back over the bridge, before running the last several miles through Camden and finishing at Campell's Field - home of the Camden Riversharks!

On this day, Abby found herself finishing 8th overall, but was pleased with the effort, as all the runners in front of her were international runners with mid-distance savvy. She was able to get her tune-up in. The key now is simply to focus on the streets of Philadelphia. For Abby, the streets of Philadelphia on November 18th could help pave the way to the streets of Boston in April.

3 November, 2007
New York City, NY

BYRNE AND CALLINAN COMPETE AT OLYMPIC TRIALS; WARD RACES BAD BOY XC

On Saturday morning, two members of PRTC were able to take place in the fastest and deepest Olympic Marathon Trials ever. Stong winds were gusting down the streets of Manhattan on this Fall morning, as Hurricane Noel had taken an unexpected turn back toward the U.S. coastline. The temperature was nice and cool as the buses made their way to the starting line at Rockefeller Plaza.

This race was not your typical, quiet road race. Evidence of that could be seen a full hour before the start. As Ted went out on the streets to warm up, he saw a group of men running around with their shirts off - each one covered with a letter spray-painted on to his chest. The letters spelled out "Brian Sell" - the eventual third place finisher and member of the 2008 Olympic Marathon Team. Viewed nationally on the Today show, the opening miles were conservative, as the runners made their way through the city - running right through Times Square. This start was somewhat surprising, although understandable, as each and every runner knew that the rolling hills in Central Park awaited
The field filtered in to the park with fans awaiting. People were cheering and holding signs everywhere. There were very few spots of the five mile loop (the first of the five loops was four miles) that did not have people lining it. With each lap the runners covered of the criterium course, the crowds at the grandstands grew bigger.

Both of our guys did not have the day they envisioned however. Matty fought cramps from the third mile to the finish. The cramps were not constant, Matt explained, as "they would get better, then worse, then better, then worse. I could never stand up and run pain free for more than two to three minutes." Matt is not sure why this problem arose, but thinks perhaps it is due to overhydration. This is understandable on a day when every runner wants to run well so badly that his or her preparations can border on overkill.

Preparations is exactly what hindered Ted on this day as well. Ted started the race further back than Matty, but was looking to run conservatively and perhaps move up as the race went on. "With the Summer and Fall I had, I knew I was short on health and fitness. I hoped that with a conservative start, my strength would show itself and I could pull through as the race went on. Ironically, I have been improving in health steadily the last three weeks; I simply ran out of time to prepare."

UPTOWN, PAT WARD LINED UP FOR A RACE THAT ALSO FEATURED MANY HILLS, but these hills would be found on the grass. Pat said that was caught up in some traffic off the starting line, but that he threw in some surges upon entering the woods and up Freshman Hill. This put Pat in good position entering the back hills. "In retrospect, I was probably a bit too aggressive," Pat noted afterwards. "I somehow went through two miles faster than I had at Franklin Park six days before, which led me to start feeling pretty ragged over the latter part of the back hills loop." Pat lost places in the back hills loop, but was able to recover and take back some of those places leading up to the bridge. From there, Pat fought hard and maintained his position until the finish.

"I think this was a better performance than my race at Mayor's Cup. And since it came after several not restful hours on my feet that morning in Central Park, I can't complain. I'm glad I decided to race, but I'm looking forward to pacing myself a bit more evenly at Rothman, and then gearing up for a strong race at Club Nationals!"

28 October, 2007
Boston, MA

WARD KEEPS GETTING FASTER - COMPETES AT B.A.A. MAYOR'S CUP

Using frequent racing as a way to prepare for USATF Fall Cross Country Championships, Pat Ward raced yet again this weekend. This time, Pat was back on 'home turf' in a way, racing in New England. And as can often be found in New England, there was energy and excitement surrounding the annual B.A.A. Mayor's Cup. Pat provided us with a full acount of the race. And since he was there, we'll let him tell the story:

The course was a bit soft from some rain in the preceding days, and there were some strong wind gusts, but the tempeature was perfect and it was a sunny day. I have seen some faster days at the Franklin Park, but I've also seen days that were much slower. I would say it was an average, fair day for judging times.

I found the opening pace pretty quick for me, but I got out decently well (4:54, putting me around 80th). I then focused on moving up through the pack over the 2nd mile. After 5K, I pretty much defended my position through to the finish.

I'm happy with the race at this point. I went through 5K almost as fast as I raced the Parkway Run 5K a month ago. I seem to be improving with every race, and if can keep this up, I'll be hitting my collegiate P.R.'s soon enough. I'm excited about th rest of the season, especially Club Nationals!

--> be sure to check out this interview with Abby D. and Tom H. on the press page! <--

Saturday's Olympic Trials Marathon is perhaps the most important race in American Distance running history. After spending years trying to get itself out of the doldrums of world distance running, USATF, USOC, and the NYRR are about to stage one of the most hyped races in memory. With an incredible grassroots push from websites such as Flotrack.com, Chasingglory.com, and phillytc.com the OT marathon has become the point mark where US distance running no longer talks about how we are coming back as a distance power, but shows that we are a distance power! The Philadelphia Runner Track Club is excited to be a part of the statement with two of its runners toeing the line in front of St. Patrick's Cathedral on Saturday morning.
Both Matt Byrne and Ted Callinan will be lining up for their second OT. This second go around was just as tough as the first. Ted, Matty, and several other PRTC runners lined up at the 2005 Twin Cities Marathon looking to get a qualifier from day one of the qualifying window. They, along with pretty much everyone else, were befallen by an untypical humid day for Minnesota. It was okay though, there were to still be other chances.
In January of 2006 though Matt broke his tail bone. He struggled and fought his way back to form setting his sights on the 2006 Steamtown Marathon to take a second shot at qualifying. A former winner of the race, and a hometown native, Matt had intimate knowledge of the course. He used it to his advantage and not only qualified for the Trials but also won the race! His 2:21:50 was almost a challenge to the rest of the team to join him in NY for the trials.
Three week's after Matty's romp through coal country Ted lined up at a very chilly Chicago Marathon (remember I said 2006, not 2007). Wanting to exact revenge for missing the trials by 2 seconds at the 2003 Chicago Marathon, Ted worked hard every step of the race to ensure he would qualify. He would need to as he only had 4 seconds left on the clock when he crossed the finish line. Watching the finish line on the internet, fellow qualifier Mike McKeeman said he "you are allowed to qualify for the Trials without giving yourself and the rest of us a heart attack the final 200m as the clock ticks toward 2:22."
Mike joins several other local runners lining up for the trials this weekend. Jacob Frey, a frequent member of PRTC workouts will be lining up for his first trials. Bobby Cannon, a recent Haverford College grad, will join a long line of Tom Donnelly coached athletes that have lined up for an Olympic Trials race. New citizen Macharia Yuot will be returning to NY for the third time this year to race.
PRTC and Puma are excited and proud to have Ted and Matt representing at such an amazing event. We wish them, and all the local qualifiers, the best of luck on Saturday!!

NYRR.org
ChasingGlory.com
USATF OlympicTrials-Marathon-Men 2007

27 October, 2007
Philadelphia, PA

FENNELLY AND BORGHUIS GO 2 - 3 At BOBTOBERFEST FIVE MILER

Ryan continued his mid-distance racing, and Bart made a return to action after Steamtown at the Bobtoberfest Five Miler. The race started at Blue Bell Park above Forbidden Drive. The first half mile went downhill through Rittenhouse Town. The morning of the race, there was significant rain, to the point that it called the race in to question. But eventually the sun came out, and the rain drained away from the main trails. Bart opened up with a 5:12 first mile. He said that he felt good early in the race - especially considering it was his first race since the Steamtown Marathon.

Villanova alumnus Tom Parlapiano and Fennelly were locking horns at the front of the race. Two miles in to Forbidden Drive, the course took a 180. At this point, Bart passed two runners and moved in to 3rd place. Bart was able to maintain his position, but was not able to make up more ground on the two leaders. In the late stages of the race, the course climbed back uphill. This, coupled with the fact that this was Bart's first post-marathon effort, made his legs start to feel heavy. The order stayed the same until the finish line. Parlapiano 1st. But our guys put up solid performances, finishing 2nd and 3rd.

After the race, all the participants celebrated Halloween and the month of October with Bobtoberfest! Yes, you guessed it. The race was named after none other than Bob Shwelm! The winners received carved pumpkins, and in Octoberfest fashion, there were plenty of hot dogs and sauerkraut after the race!

13 October, 2007
Gloucester, NJ

Ward Recovers from Inuries - Returns to Racing

Showing the return to form that provided him with a PR at the Jefferson Hospital Philadelphia Distance Run, Pat Ward lined up for a 5k that boasts deep prize money and a talented field. Ted joined him, looking to sharpen his turnover after injuries had delayed his focus on speedwork throughout the Fall.
This impressive 5k, called the Heroes to Hero 5k. It honors the lives of the firemen from Mt. Ephraim and Gloucester City, who died in responding to a fire alarm on the 4th of July several years ago. The course follows the route the firemen took the day of the fire and passes the homes of the men involved in the tragedy. In trying to maneuver their way from Mt. Ephraim to Gloucester quickly and avoid main roads, the firemen took smaller, side roads. Thus, the course the runners take in this race is extremely twisty, with plenty of 90 degree turns.
Though windy, the weather was still favorable - sunny and a bit cool. At the gun, the runners charged ahead. It seemed to be one of those races where people went hard in to the wind at the beginning and then were penned in to their position, thanks to the constant turns and pushing winds.
"I am happy with this race," Pat said afterwards. "I am looking to get my turnover going, and hopefully this will set me up to run well at Mayor's Cup." Pat will be racing the B.A.A. Mayor's Cup at venerable Franklin Park on Sunday, 28 October.

7 October
Chicago, IL; Scranton, PA

PRTC MARATHONERS SURVIVE SAUNA-LIKE CONDITIONS

Many people know about the conditions by now. The heat and humidity took its toll on the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon. The conditions were so bad that race organizers actually canceled the race after four hours! The following is an official press release from race officials:

Due to the rising heat index and higher than expected temperatures, LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon Executive Race Director Carey Pinkowski and Medical Director Dr. George Chiampas, in cooperation with city officials, have implemented a contingency plan, as a precautionary measure, to effectively close the Marathon course at the halfway point. Runners who have not reached the halfway point by approximately 12:00 p.m. will be diverted back to Grant Park via Halsted and Jackson... Participants are asked to take advantage of medical personnel, cooling buses, runner drop out buses, water, Gatorade and other means of support en route back to Grant Park.

Amazingly, our runners posted great performances considering the conditions. Abby was 15th overall and the 7th American in the field! Tom finished 30th! Ross finished 45th! These finishes are in a field of 45,000! And our athletes posted these performances on a day when many people couldn't even keep their feet going! It was brutal. Tom recounted that he "forgot to Vaseline my nipples and decided I needed to get that jersey off my skin around 18 miles in. Around the same time, I ran by a bank sign that read 86 degrees! Actually, Tom and Ross stuck together through the half-way point, as they were a few ticks over 1:11. This pace puts them outside of qualifying, but not with a strong second half. Of course, that would be a strong second half on a day where conditions were much more favorable. "At least I know that there was nothing I could have done to run 2:21 here today," Tom considered. "We had a nice group there going for it."

Abby looked to defy the odds as well. She kept on pace for a qualifier for a long time. Eventually though, the heat was just too much. Before the race, Abby said she truly felt she was "in 2:45 shape. Of course, that did not leave me much room to adjust my pace for the heat. I read that the temperature was 88 degrees by 10 AM. Anyway, I really struggled to get into a rhythm from the start, and I never felt good at any point. By mile 13, I was slowing down and was not sure if I could get the pace back. By mile 18, I knew there was no way I was going to make the time."

MEANWHILE, BART HAD COOLER CONDITIONS, but not by much. Months before, Bart decided to take his shot at a Fall marathon closer to home, opting for the promising Steamtown Marathon in Scranton, PA. Despite its small size and lack of a deep field, Steamtown has been beneficial to many a runner (not excluding past champion and PRTC member Matt Byrne). Steamtown annually offers cool conditions, as the race takes place north of the Poconos. It also provides a quick course ... as long as the runners remember to not let themselves go too much in the first ten miles (which is literally a net downhill).

Bart has made great leaps in his training and fitness, capped off with a stint in Mammoth Lakes, California. This day could definitely have seen Bart post a PR worth a couple of minutes. But Bart was going to feel the sapping effects of humidity as well. Bart said he felt decent at the start, but his splits were not coming to him as he would like. He started the race in the mid to high 5:30s, but quickly began a concerted effort to bring his splits down. Bart found himself passing and then being passed by other members of the lead pack.

Before reaching mile 20, Bart knew that a goal time of approximately 2:25 was not in the cards. The weather conditions just wouldn't allow. Still, Bart gamely fought on, looking to crack 2:30. "But my legs felt drained," Bart explained. Add the weather conditions to the distance, and that feeling is certainly understandable. Still, by the end of the race, Bart managed to finish in the top ten and post a career PR!

ON A DAY WHEN HEAT AND HUMIDITY BLANKETED MOST OF THE COUNTRY and severely affected two of the biggest races in the country (there was one death each reported at both the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon and Army 10 Miler), PRTC and Puma want to express how proud they are of their athletes. These athletes' times and their finishes are both testaments to their character.

The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon 2007
Men's Team
Tom Haxton, 30th Place, 2:34.38
Ross Martinson, 45th Place, 2:38.43

Women's Team
Abby Dean, 15th Place (7th American), 2:56.24

Steamtown Marathon 2007
Bart Borghuis, 10th Place, 2:32.04 *PR*

6 October, 2007
Lititz, PA

LUCREZI RIPS ROAD 5k

Gina has definitely returned to form, posting a smoking fast time at a small, low-key race called Hartz Fall Blast 5k. Gina took first place in the race with a time of 16:21. But as a true PRTC runner and person of character, Gina confessed that the course felt short to her. She "felt like it was a little short. We (Gina and her friend Drew) mapped it out with gps, and got 3.03-4 miles. So for a true 5k, I was probably closer to 16:40 or so." Still, this is a big PR for Gina, as even the converted time would eclipse some 17 seconds from her previous best!

Gina recounted her victory, recalling that she "ran it solo after the first mile. I just kept thinking 'Run hard, run harder.'. But I didn't really feel like I was going that quickly. Despite how big of a performance Gina posted, she said that she still has "some bigger plans."

Hartz Fall Blast 5k 2007
Gina Lucrezi, 1st Place, 16:21 *PR*

29 September, 2007
Philadelphia, PA

PRTC RUNNERS TREK DOWN BEN FRANKLIN PARKWAY

Abby and Tom were using the Parkway Run as a last tune-up before their Fall marathons. Meanwhile, Ryan and Pat Ward were looking to sharpen their mid-distance skills. On a beautiful early Fall morning, PRTC put four athletes in the Parkway Run.

Showing good fitness for Chicago, Abby placed 2nd female overall. She trailed only Olympian Carmen Duma-Hussar. More impressive than her actual race, perhaps, is what Abby did in addition to it. "Although the 5k was disappointing, I did have to do three more miles at marathon pace immediately afterwards and they felt very easy, so hopefully that is a good sign for the marathon."

The men were met with a quality field. Still suffering nagging tightness in one hamstring, Ryan was able to place 4th in 15:23. Meanwhile, Tom and Pat ran close to each other placing two more PRTC runners in the top ten.

The Parkway Run 2007

Men's Team
Ryan Fennelly, 4th Place, 15:23
Pat Ward, 7th Place, 16:04
Tom Haxton, 10th Place, 16:09

Women's Team
Abby Dean, 2nd Place, 17:52

16 September, 2007
Philadelphia, PA; Providence, RI

PR'S A PLENTY AT PDR; GINA RACES US 5k CHAMPS

The starting gun on this Sunday morning sent the runners off into a cool, crisp, and clear September day in Philadelphia. The temperature intimated that fast times were definitely possible on this day. Strangely, the lead runners maintained a pedestrian pace through the first two miles. "It was weird," Brian Skelly said. "For the first two miles, I was right there with the international guys." Before long, though, the racing began in earnest.

A slight wind accompanied the runners through center city and the first portion of Martin Luther King Drive. On the women's team, Claire and Abby placed themselves high in the pecking order during the race. Moreover, all three members of the women's team were on PR pace on this day. On the men's team, Brian and Tom placed themselves high in the pecking order as well.

As Brian made his way towards the Art Museum, it seemed certain that he would better his half marathon PR. He did just that. Though Tom certainly ran much faster than his recorded time at the Caesar Rodney Half Marathon last year, today was officially a PR as well. Finally, there was Pat Ward, who was determined to live up to his prediction last Thursday of a PR. When Tony Reavis of Elite Racing asked Pat what his half marathon PR was, he said "1:13 - UNTIL SUNDAY!" He was right.

So if you're keeping count, that's a sweep, ON BOTH SIDES! Each member of the women's team AND each member of the men's team PR'D at the 30th anniversary of the Jefferson Hospital Distance Run. If running is supposed to be about always pushing yourselves to improve, then the example demonstrated by our teams on this day is certainly noteworthy.

THE STARTING GUN WAS ALSO FIRED IN PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND, where Gina took on the top mid-distance women in the U.S. at the road 5k champs. Still under-raced, Gina posted a solid performance, running 17:26.

Philadelpha, PA
8 September, 2007

SKELLY AND PRTC WIN EDITION 4 OF BATTLE ROYALE

The sunny, hot, and dry weekends continue in the Philadelphia area. And though it's not fun to race in the heat, a small but talented field of men laced up their racing spikes at venerable Blemont Plateau to 'heat up' Battle Royale. The race included the usual suspects, including PRTC, BMRC, Breakneck TC, Philadelphia Athletic, Philadelphia Masters, and several open runners.

Though most people in this field are probably pointing towards longer distances this Fall, a shorter, harder effort can provide great benefit for the racers, as it helps them to focus on form and efficiency - not to mention good ol' fashioned fast racing!

From the gun, Brian Skelly seemed determined to keep his winning streak going. He did just that. Brian Skelly led from start to finish. But Brian's race was still exciting, as his control was impressive. More importantly, places 2 through 10 changed places several times.

The field completed the 'Flagpole Hill loop,' completing a little over a mile before heading toward Parachute Hill. At this stage, PRTC had several runners in Skelly's jetstream, including Fennelly, Haxton, and Ross. But BMRC was looking to keep it close, as veteran Tom Parlapiano was keeping close contact with this group. Tom would soon be joined by teammates Zack Vaslow, Shawn Cavanaugh, Bernie Mueller, and Ryan Walsh.

After coming back out to the park area, the runners would make one more complete circuit. After running Parachute Hill a second time, the runners would emerge from the woods, kicking towards a finish chute approximately 200 meters straight ahead. On the second loop, several runners negotiated their way up the pecking order, including Breakneck's John Garton, as well as master's runners Chuck Shields and Bob Rimkis.

As the runners started to file in, it became clear that our guys worked hard, as the order of runners 2 through 4 shuffled order. Fennelly showed his mid-distance prowess, holding off a charging Tom Haxton, who was only two seconds in arrears.

Bryn Mawr showed tremendous depth by filling places five through seven and nine through ten. Fortunately, it wasn't enough, as Pat Ward came through and made the day for PRTC! Making his way through some nagging injuries, Pat put his fitness on the line and gutted out a great performance, finishing 11th overall in 22:53!

And so there it was, PRTC went up won the day. It was a great race, completing with Bob holding the trophy to show the runners as they made their way up Flagpole Hill the second time. With music and Bob Kennedy signing autographs for the youth races, the race had a festive atmosphere.

PRTC wants to thank all the people who made this race possible for the fourth time. WE TRULY APPRECIATE YOU COMING OUT! The people include:

BMRC Proprietor Bob Shwelm (How can you not love that guy?) Puma Running Rep. Bryan Poerner (He keeps PRTC in their shoes) PRTC runner Tim Callinan for coordinating with Bob and Bryan Jason Yaffe for recording the Battle Royale IV results

But even more than these people, we simply want to truly thank ALL the people who came out to race and watch, as well as the other employees of BMRC who helped out. With input from different parties, this race is really not a race that belongs to PRTC or BMRC. It belongs to the people who come out for the race each and every year. Make sure you all have a great Fall cheer each other on!

Full Battle Royale IV Results
Belmont Plateau, Philadelphia, PA

Open Race (4 miles)
1.Bryan Skelly PRTC 21:13
2.Ryan Fennelly PRTC 21:36
3.Tom Haxton PRTC 21:38
4.Ross Martinson PRTC 21:43
5.Zack Vaslow BMRC 21:51
6.Tom Parllapiano BMRC 21:54
7.Shawn Cavanaugh BMRC 22:09
8.John Garton BTC 22:23
9.Bernie Muller BMRC 22:31
10.Ryan Walsh BMRC 22:35
11.Pat Ward PRTC 22:53
12.Matt Vavala PAC 23:29
13.Chuck Shields PAC 23:33
14.Joe Canney BTC 23:37
15.Jason Bull BMRC 23:49
16.Steve Metraux PAC 24:19
17.Bill Rimkis PAC 24:24
18.Jeff Hayes PAC 24:45
19.Kevin Forde PAC 24:56
20.Larry Rechtin 26:40
21.Neill Clark PAC 26:47
22.Kevin Saint Clair 30:48
23.Steve Clark 31:08
24.James Howe 31:30
25.Jim O’Neil 32:05

Avalon, NJ; New Haven, CT
2 & 3 September, 2007

SHANNON WINS TIM KERR 7 MILER; TIM RUNS IN U.S. 20K CHAMPS

Though September 3rd was "Labor Day," in which people are not supposed to work, Tim was working hard. He was working hard through the streets of New Haven, Connecticut that is. New Haven is annual host to the U.S. 20k road championships. This year, it was also host to plenty of sunshine and high temperatures. That's good if you're on the beach, not quite so goos if you're practically racing a half marathon on the roads.

Tim came through in fine fashion however. Tim improved on his finish here from 2005 by a whopping 2:30! Posting 1:07.38 in 2005, Tim returned this year to finish in 1:05.03! "I felt like I ran smart," Tim noted. This assesment plays out when one observes the 10k splits in the race results. While Tim ran steady, there were runners who went out well ahead of him, only accede ground to Tim in the late stages of the race.

The beginning of the race has a slight upward grade and makes several turns in the early miles - before looping the course down toward the waterfront. Just when a runner can lose focus in the middle miles of a race (in this case miles six and seven), the field finds itself out in the open with no shade. Taking into consideration the weather conditions mentioned previously, that was going to put the pressure on the elite field to keep their 'cool.' And that's just what Tim did. "Actually, I felt good down by the waterfront. I am happy. That time converts to a nice PR for me at half marathon." Setting a nice PR at the longer distances bodes well for Tim as he prepares to lace up his shoes at the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon.

Closer to home, Shannon paced the women's field at the Tim Kerr 7 Miler the day before Tim's race. Shannon has been training for the half marathon since late June. Before then, she only ran ten miles a few times. She decided that she wanted to set a goal and have something to work towards. Because she tends to compete better in longer races, Shannon's coach and brother Brian, suggested racing PDR.

Tim Kerr was Shannon's first attempt at a race over 10k. "I think I ran pretty conservatively and have more to give. I am feeling good for PDR. The race went out, and I went through the first mile in the 6:20's, just trying to stay relaxed, which probably helped."

Race conditions included sunny skies and temperatures in the high 70s and low 80s. The race starts out one block in from te beach in Avalon. The runners make their way on to Dune Drive and race toward Stone Harbor, before turning around and heading back to the race staging area. Shannon explained that it was "actually hard to focus because a lot of us had trouble finding mile markers. I didn’t even see it after 2 until 5 again. My pace was 6:31 (45:37). I’m hoping I can get that faster next time. It would be nice to stay relatively close to that come PDR. I have been getting my miles up a tad, hoping it helps."

Tim Kerr 7 Mile Island Run 2007 Shannon Klick, 1st Place, 45:37 Stratton Faxon New Haven 20k 2007 Tim Callinan, 24th Place, 65:03

Stone Harbor, NJ
26 August, 2007

RACING COUPLE COMPLETES SUMMER WITH ANOTHER DOUBLE VICTORY

Yet again, Brian Skelly and Renee Gunning romped through a Summer road race en route to victory. This time, the couple raced down at the Jersey shore in the Stone Harbor Lion's Club 10k. Brian ran with teammate Ted Callinan for approximately two miles before pushing ahead on his own. Brian and Ted were chasing one runner that was running the 5k (run concurrently with the 10 over the same loop). Despite the sun, heat, and humidity, Brian maintained the lead he built up between miles 2 and 4 to score an individual victory. Ted gave the men's outing a 1-2 finish.

When the two men hit the turnaround to run the 5k loop in reverse, they could see Renee, who was literally only a place behind in the race overall! Renee captured the 5k title easily, using the race as speedwork for her upcoming race at the Jefferson Hospital Philadelphia Distance Run. Conversely, Gina Lucrezi used the 10k to work on her strength to prepare for her upcoming race at the CVS Downtown 5k in Providence, Rhode Island. This race serves as the USATF 5k road race championships. Gina scored a convincing victory as well.

As for the rest of the team, the short-term goal is the fourth edition of the Battle Royale, which will be held on Saturday, 8 September at Belmont Plateau. This race will mark the true beginning of the Fall racing.

28 July, 2007
Philadelphia, PA

PRTC SWEEPS TOP THREE SPOTS FOR MEN AND WOMEN AT SUMMER RUN IN THE GREEN

It won't be long before our guys and girls are hitting the big Fall racing season. But for now, they are enjoying some low-key, yet competitive races to keep their spikes sharp.

Just as challenging as the field for the Run for the Hill of It race may be the terrain. The race takes place in Valley Green, which is a common training locale for our runners. The 'Green' is a wide dirt trail that undulates from Lincoln Drive out to the horse stables in Chestnut Hill. There are no major hills on this trail, but the rolling hills make it hard to run fast and maintain a solid rhythm.

But today some PRTC athletes showed just how well they know this trail. The team swept the podium positions for both the guys and girls! In the men's race, Matt, Tom, and Ryan were accompanied for the first by a high school phenom who clocked 8:50 for two miles last Spring. As the race wore on, though, our guys showed their endurance. In the last stages of the race, Matt was able to provide a bit of daylight between he and Tom. Matt was pleased with the win and nearly broke fellow teammate Brian Skelly's course record of 25:12! Tom continued to show excellent fitness this Summer in finishing second. Fenn was able to shake off his disappointment from Club Nationals to take third overall in a solid 25:34. And though Pat has kept his mileage high this Summer, he showed enough speed to stop the clock at 26:48.

The women's race brought some other encouraging highlights, as Megan continued her return to fitness, finishing second overall! Megan trailed only race winner and fellow teammate Claire, who posted a finishing time on this tough course that is good enough for #6 on the club's all-time list! Shannon Klick rounded out the women's sweep by running 32:12. Great work by all our runners!

12 & 14 May, 2007
Grand Rapids, MI; Swarthmore, PA

LILIENTHAL 3RD IN NATIONAL 25k CHAMPIONSHIPS

Once again, the range of the club is shown on this weekend, as one athlete races a quarter of a mile, while the other raced over 15 miles! Matt Collins kept up his usual blitz of races, running the Swarthmore Last Chance meet which replaced the Tuppeny Twilight meet for this Spring. Unfortunately, Matt did not improve upon his time from his previous effort at the Broadmead Invitational, but it was Matt's second fastest 400m hurdles of the Spring! Matt placed second overall in a time of 54:33.

In Grand Rapids, Michigan, Michelle tested her fitness at the 25k national championships. Michelle is definitely short on races, but her only other serious effort since her late Winter/early Spring foot injury proved very promising (Michelle ran the Adrenaline 5k on the roads within seconds of her lifetime PR). And it seems clear by now that when Michelle runs in a national championship, she comes up big. This day would be no different.

Michelle finished fourth overall and third in the U.S. championships! As usual, this was quite an impressive effort, as the only people to beat Michelle to the line were Russian Titiana Chulakh, two-time U.S. 10k champion Katie McGregor, and former NCAA 10,000m champion on the track Alicia Cragg. While earning a nice payday, Michelle also posted a new 25k club record of 1:29.53!

1, 6 May, 2007
Princeton, NJ; Philadelphia, PA

MEN'S TEAM DEFENDS TITLE AT BROAD STREET; WOMEN PUT THREE IN TOP SIX

This is it. This is what the team has always been about. As incredible as Renee's top three finish, the team is just as proud of Pat Ward's stellar first attempt at ten miles, running a little over 52 minutes! The women's team has established themselves as one of the top clubs anywhere, placing three girls in the top ten of this race that boasted 17,000+ runners. But our men's team is strong too, and surely showed its depth on Sunday. Not running nearly all of the men on the roster, PRTC still had nine make runners in the field. And for the second straight year, the men's team won the team title. What's more impressive, the three scorers on this year's team are three COMPLETELY DIFFERENT runners than the scorers the team relied on last year. Now that's depth.

The day was sure to provide fast times, as there was a wind coming out of the North (the course runs north to south). And though the skies were sunny, the temperature was not too hot. At the gun, the front of the race instantly split in to little groups. There was a lead group of three, a pair of runners not far behind, and then a thin straight line of runners back to the first main pack. The first half of the course (the runners hit 5 miles shortly before City Hall) is faster, and the splits were coming quickly.

At four miles, Ross and Ted met up and ran together the rest of the way. Meanwhile, Renee was putting herself in some elite company, and second place didn't seem out of question. By the mid-point of the race, it was clear Abby and Claire were going to continue their Spring PR streaks. The key to the Broad Street Run is buckling down from the Avenue of the Arts to Broad and Oregon. Once the stadiums are in sight, the runners know it won't be long until the finish, so their spirits are revived.

As the early finishers sped towards the finish in the revitalized Naval Yard, the hard work, and early, hilly, cold, long Sunday runs that the team did during the Winter were surely going to pay off. Of the twelve total runners that PRTC placed on the line Sunday, no less than nine ran PR's. As you know the men's team won the team title and the women surely would have as well (the girls were simply placed together too late to score as a team). Renee made a big splash at the longer distances and received some noteriety from the press. Claire scored yet another PR in 2007. And Steve and Abby showed their fitness as they prepare for Grandma's Marathon in June. It's hard not to love this race. We couldn't be happier with the way our guys and girls ran. We hope you had a good race too!

DURING THE WEEK heading in to Broad Street, a lone PRTC runner placed his spikes on the track. Matt Collins lined up against only one other competitor at Princeton's Broadmead Invitational. That might not sound impressive, but this small meet is always comprised of solid open runners, and collegiate athletes who either just missed IC4A's or NCAA Regionals AND athletes that DID qualify for these races and want to race a low key meet simply as a tune-up.

Matt said he is still not satisfied with the way he is running between the hurdles, yet he was happy with his effort on this night, as he ran his fastest time of the Spring so far. Matt ran 54:19 and hopes to run back in to the 53s at Swarthmore's upcoming meet. Looking ahead, Matt believes that these last two years of racing might provide him with the strength he needs to break his collegiate PR of 52.1. This is a mere 1.1 seconds from the USATF qualifying standard! We hope he does it!

6 & 7 April, 2007
Princeton, NJ; Frazer, PA

STRONG PERFORMANCES AT PRINCETON TRACK MEET AND ON THE ROAD

On Good Friday, many athletes made their way to one of the nicest track facilities in the tri-state area, Princeton University. Princeton's indoor facility is a fine track, but is bested by its own outdoor facility constructed just a few years ago. Princeton's outdoor track is so good that the cold temperatures and strong winds did not seem to hinder the runners on this Friday night as much as people would think.

The conditions certainly didn't hinder the efforts of Renee Gunning, who ran at a metronomic pace, running even splits the whole way and winning the women's 5000m in 16:27.86! Her time broke the women's club record established by Gina Lucrezi at this same meet last year! Claire Duncan ran her first race of the outdoor season and finished 14th overall in a time of 17:24.18.

In the men's 10,000m, Pat Ward was returning to racing from an even longer layoff, having not raced since the American Express Philadelphia Marathon. "I knew it would be painful," Pat said afterwards, "but now I know where I stand." Pat wanted to race the Princeton meet so that he had a race in his legs before toeing the line at the Blue Cross Broad Street Run. Pat was caught alone for many laps during this race, but he gutted out a time of 32:31.01.

On Saturday morning, Bart had to deal with the same cold Spring temperatures that his teammates contended with the night before. Bart ran a 5k on the roads to shake off the heaviness incurred by racing the big ten miler in D.C. He said it was a rolling course. Bart found some stiff competition at this small road race, finishing 4th in a time of 15:37. His time was "not as fast as I wanted, but as fast as i could [run]." Based on the performance, Bart determined that he needed to go "back to the track for more speed."

31 March; 1 April
Haddonfield, NJ; Washington, DC

MENS'S & WOMEN'S TEAMS SWEEP TITLES AT ADRENALINE; BART RACES BIG TEN MILER IN DC

Due to inclement weather, the Adrenaline 5k was delayed this year by two weeks. But that didn't prevent a host of fast runners from taking to the line on the revised date. The man to beat on this day was assuredly going to be Kiwi Adrian Blincoe (New Balance). But with plenty of fast runners from PRTC and host team Haddonfield Running Company, the top places and team titles were still up in the air.

Though the morning started off sunny, the sky seemed to become gray and the temperature dropped a while before the starting horn. As the men ran up Kings Highway through the main thorofare of Haddonfield, the pace lagged, as the pack was cagey and people were looking at each other for a move. The first mile was covered in a pedestrian 4:52. This did not bode well for fast times, as the second mile holds several sharp turns and a short hill. Haverford grad Greg Bielecki was the first to increase the tempo, looking to make the second half of the race honest. But about a quarter mile later, Blincoe shot to the front to put his stamp on the race. Now it seemed, the real race was on. PRTC's guys and Haddonfield Running Co.'s (mostly Haverford alumni) men were looking to sort out the top places.

Blincoe was pursued by Ted, Ross, and Fennelly, along with Bobby Cannon, Greg Bielecki, and Grant Scott. As the field climbed the hill late in mile 2, and the men made their way back on to the main drag, the order was often being shuffled. Ross and Bobby Cannon made a strong move with approximately 1000m to go, as Ted was fighting to finish in the money with Fennelly, Scott, and Bielecki. In the end, PRTC would put its four men among the top eight spots to lock the team title.

"My legs felt like lead," Ross said afterwards. But this is not surprising, as Ross is preparing for the B.A.A. Marathon to be run in two week's time. And this performance showed that while his legs may "feel" like lead, his speed is right where it needs to be. This was also a nice return to racing for Fennelly, who hasn't raced since last Spring.

Speaking of nice returns to form, Michelle showed unbelieveable strength coming off her stress reaction, which found her wearing a boot for the better part of a month. Michelle was diligent about cross training in this time, particularly swimming. And the work paid off. Michelle pulled off a strong win, missing her PR by a mere two seconds! "I am happy. Since it was my first race, I didn't know whether to expect to run 16 minutes or 19 minutes, so that was a good race," Michelle noted. And the PR's didn't stop there. Abby Dean was simply the most recent testament to the benefits of team support and training, as she scored a 10 second PR for 5k! That is a great sign for a girl who has been running the longer races for a long time now! With such strong performances by the girls individually, PRTC locked the women's team title as well!

All in all, the Adrenaline 5k (now in its 10th year - the first eight years were called the Bancroft 5k) was another great race, with fast runners, and supportive crowd, scenic course, and great prizes! Thanks to race director Dave Welsh for doing a fine job, despite the curveball the weather threw on St. Patrick's Day.

For even more good news, the PRs were not just confined to Saturday either, as Bart scored a solid time at the very big Credit Union Ten Mile Road Race in Washington, D.C. In an extremely deep international field, Bart finished 31st overall in a PR 52:24! On Sunday morning, Bart found the same weather conditions the team found the day before. It was cool and overcast, which made for excellent weather for a ten miler. Bart explained his performance, stating that he thought he "ran a smart race. After a conservative 5:07 first mile, I tried to keep a steady pace. Many of my miles were in the low 5 - teens, except for one mile, which had significant hill. I felt like I was fit enough to be able to work hard. I would run up to guys, regroup my energy and catch my breath, then push on."

Having endured minimal training during the late Winter, Bart's performance showed that his overall ability is still improving by leaps and bounds. Stay tuned, as we are finally ready for outdoor track! Pat Ward will be running the 10,000m and Ted Callinan will be running the 5,000m at Princeton on Good Friday! We'll be sure to let you know how they race!

18 & 24 March, 2007
New York City, NY; Washington, DC

PRTC RACES AT U.S. 8k CHAMPS; SKELLY PLACES SECOND IN NATIONAL MARATHON

On Saturday, March 17th, New York City was supposed to play host to not only the St. Patrick's Day parade, but the USATF 8k Championships as well! This race was especially significant because the 8k loop that would be used in Central Park would be the same one that will be used in November for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials.

Unfortunately, a late Winter blast of ice and snow delayed the race until Sunday morning. Ted Callinan and Matt Byrne had made their way to the hotel headquarters on the Upper East Side by Friday, so they were anxious to start racing. By Sunday morning, the path in Central Park was clear, although host New York Road Runners chose a smaller, alternate loop to assure that the group could properly clear every step of the course. The air was still very cold, but the sunshine made people optimistic about this race which featured a national caliber field.

At the start, the men's field was out quickly. Our guys put themselves into the mix right away. The 1.7 mile loop had two distinct sections to it, the first being very quick, and the second feeling significantly slower. Ted and Matt ran in different points in the pack but found each other racing close by one another late in the third and final loop. At the finish, Matt edged Ted by two seconds, as both our guys put in a strong showing at this deep race. Despite different race strategies, the results were extremely similar.

"I just felt like I couldn't get going at the beginning," Matt noted afterwards. But as is characteristic of this guy with a 'never-say-die' attitude, Matt said that he felt like he "closed strong on the last lap." Conversely, Ted attributed his troubles to the latter stages of the race, paying for a quick start in the first mile. "I was out in 4:36, which I knew was just a little too fast on that day. But it's not like you can turn around and run it again. You just have to go with it," Callinan clarified. Still, our Irish boys ran solid efforts on St. Patty's Day.

Meanwhile, Bryan Skelly laced up his flats for a significantly longer race on Saturday, March 24th. Presumably, Bryan saw the chance to race a small, quality marathon close by that would fall right between indoor and outdoor track. This was certainly enticing to the assistant coach of LaSalle University. Moreover, with Winter strength, Bryan could run the race conservatively and assure a positive experience with the marathon.

That's just what Bryan did. Bryan ran the National Marathon in Washington, D.C. and finished 2nd overall! Bryan's placing earned him a sub 2:30 clocking of 2:29.02. We're sure this will give Bryan the confidence and strength to run a much faster marathon next time out.

11 March, 2007
Wilmington, DE

PRTC TRIO PLACES HIGH IN CAESAR RODNEY HALF MARATHON

This year, people changed their clocks three weeks early for the ritual of "springing forward." Steve Gourley, Bart Borghuis, and Tom Haxton "sprung forward" to start their Spring by racing the scenic Caesar Rodney Half Marathon in Wilmington, Delaware.

The course is a scenic one, with rolling hills that find the runners in the midst of a two mile climb during the middle of the race, before getting the hills back, as the runners descend gradually for almost three full miles towards the finish line. At the start, Tom Haxton took the lead. His 5 minute first mile was watched closely by the lead pack, only five seconds in arrears. After several miles, Steve Gourley and eventual race winner Christopher Nirschel ran away from the pack, looking to close down the gap between them and Tom. Bart held back on the intial move made by Steve and Christopher Nirschel, but eventually picked up the pace with another member of that original foursome.

In the ninth mile, Christopher Nirschel took the lead, followed closely by Steve, as Tom had a bit of trouble with a side stitch. Steve kept the race close all the way to the line, finishing second overall in 1:10.33! Bart provided the second PRTC runner in the top five, hitting 1:10.51. Tom finished seventh place in 1:15.40.

"The weather was terrific," Bart said afterwards. "It was a great course, truly enjoyable."

On Saturday, 3 March, Ted Callinan ran the Shamrock 4 Mile Road Race as a tuneup for the U.S. 8k Road Championships to be held in Central Park on St. Patrick's Day. Ted set a new club record of 19:22, eclipsing his old club record of 19:24 by two seconds.

17 February, 2007
Bryn Mawr, PA

FEBRUARY FEATURES FAST RACING AND GREAT TEAM SUPPORT!!!

Sorry for the long layoff on Web site news folks. The race results bar on our home page is up to date, but we're sure you would like a little more information on everything. And to provide you with all the information we can, we want to first thank YOU for coming out to our beef-n-beer on February 10th! The beef-n-beer was a huge success thanks to you. The food was great, the prizes were plentiful, and the company was top notch! We hope you enjoyed yourselves as much as we did. And thank you so much for your support. You should always remember that when one of our runners performs well, or when the whole team runs well, we owe a big portion of it to you.

Now as for the race reporting since the last time we posted, our runners have kept busy. After our large contingent returned from Houston on the big road racing weekend, some of the women's team started melting the Winter snow on the track. In succession, Renee Gunning ripped off a series of races, running one 3000m and two 5000m. Renee's first race, the 3000m win at the Armory in NYC was clocked in a blistering 9:20.83. Renee was able to beat her long time nemesis - Clara Peterson. Soon after, Renee and Gina ran at the Boston Terrier Invitational - long a steady stop for many high level runners during the Winter campaign. Running her first race of the year, Gina clocked 10:05 in the 3000m, while Renee posted a 16:17 5000m club record! Renee then ran her second straight 5000m, although this she ran this one clear accross the country in Washington state. Renee ran another superb effort and missed her own club record by a little under one full second. Unbelieveable stuff.

Well, that's a bit about what the team has been doing. We will bring you more up-to-the-minute coverage as the Winter season melts in to Spring. There are some big things on tap soon, such as the men's team competing at the USATF Men's 8k road championships in NYC on 17 March! We are training hard and building our strength. We'll do our best to make the city proud come Springtime. We wish you all the best with your training and racing too. 'Til next time.

perhaps you read it on the message board already: PRTC got promoted! Big time congratulations to all.

13 & 14 January, 2007
Houston, TX; New York City, NY, Philadelphia, PA

BIG RESULTS FOR PRTC ON THE ROADS, ON THE TRACK, AND AT THE OFFICE

ON THE ROADS - Ross took part in Greg McMillan's Elite Development program to help men and women qualify for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials (www.youcanqualify.com ). On race day in Houston, the runners at the Chevron Houston Marathon awoke to overcast skies and a decent temperature - 55 (although the humidity was surprisingly high - 94% at the gun, rising to 97% by 8AM). Ross was off to a speedy start, passing the halfway mark under 70 minutes.
During the second half of the race, Ross kept his splits within qualifying range through mile 18, although he recalls feeling that he was close to on edge with regard to his splits. "I was soaked right from the start," Ross recounted. "It wasn't hot, but it was humid. I kept telling myself that I could still do it. When I hit mile 22, I started running 5:30s, so I knew it wasn't going to happen." Still, despite a tough last 10k, Ross was able to record a PR! Considering the tough conditions for a marathon he found on the day, Ross ran a great race. Afterwards, he put things in perspective, noting that he is "inching ever closer to the time."
MEANWHILE, our athletes that were taking part in the Aramco Half Marathon that morning, were facing extremely tough competition, as this race was host to the 2007 U.S. Half Marathon Championships.

In the women's race, our very own Michelle Lilienthal followed up her 4th place finish at the 2006 Marathon Championships with a 3rd place finish at the 2007 Half Marathon Championships! Michelle vaulted herself on the awards stand by running a super fast (and obviously club record) 1:12.46. Michelle said " I knew I was fit to run 5:40 pace, which would put me at 1:14. I knew that won it last year. So I knew that if I ran that, it would put me in the top three. But I didn't expect to finish there!" Michelle's unbelieveable race should secue her spot on the short list to make the U.S. for the upcoming World Marathon Championships! That would make the second U.S.A. team a member of the club has made!
In the men's race, Matt Byrne led the way for PRTC, averaging 5:02 miles for a half marathon, and establishing a new club record of 1:06.01. This time slashed the club record held by Bill Frawley by a clear half minute. Ted never ran quote with Matt, but kept close contact through almost eight miles. "I definitely ran poorly over the last four miles," Ted said however. Like Ted, Tim also struggled late in the race and was certainly looking for more on the day. Tim tried to keep a positive outlook on the day, noting that "the race organization was great!"
ON THE TRACK - Renee Gunning made a speedy return to racing after taking some much needed rest during the month of December. But her first race of the Winter had her looking like she didn't take a break at all!

Renee headed up the NJ Turnpike to take part in the Gotham Cup at the Armory. The race looked promising, as the track at the Armory is fast, and Renee would be racing her long-time rival Clara Peterson. This time, Renee got the scalp. But Renee's performance held even more surprises. Renee ran a ridiculously fast time for 3000m - 9:20.83! This time qualifies Renee for the USATF Indoor Track National Championships to be held in Boston! The club has been proud to send athletes to the Cross Country National Championships, and PRTC has sent runners to every distance road national championship except the 25k. But Renee's qualfication fo Indoor Nationals secures the last piece of the puzzle - the first PRTC athlete to qualify for a USATF Track National Championships!
This is a great race for Renee and shows how hard she has worked. It is also great for the team, as it shows how far the team has come.

Speaking of how far the team has come....

IN THE OFFICE - The administrators of the team have worked hard, and that hard work has truly paid off. Now a full six years in to the development of the club, PRTC boasts Olympic Trials qualifiers, placers in national championships, and selections on to U.S.A. teams. USATF has recognized this hard work, accepting the team's application as a national Elite Development Club. This title is a designation provided by USATF. Here is a selection from the letter PRTC received from USATF:
"It is my pleasure to inform you that our Application Review Subcommittee has approved Philadelphia Runner Track Club to receive USATF Elite Development Club designation.
We congratulate the Philadelphia Runner Track Club for helping the USATF Club Council to pursue its mission to enhance and expand opportunities for USATF open level, club-based team competition in track & field, cross country, long distance running, and race walking.
We welcome the Philadelphia Runner Track Club to the USA Track & Field Family of Elite Development Clubs !!"
We won't stop training and racing hard. Make sure you don't stop either.

31 December, 2006
Ridge & Midvale, Philadelphia, PA

PRTC DOMINATES FIREPIG 5 MILER (SURE, IT WAS OUR OWN RACE, BUT...)

What better way to send off 2006 and welcome in 2007 by ... running a race on Kelly Drive? Yes, we didn't say runners were the brightest people. Race directors Bart and Veena put together this first edition of the New Year's race. The five mile course started at the 3.5 mile mark of the Schuylkill River (heading toward Boat House Row) and turned around at the 1 mile mark.

The adrenaline ran high as thousands of spectators lined the course. At the gun, a solid pack of four leaders emerged - Skelly, Bart, Matty, and Ted. The first mile was covered in 5:03; however, Skelly almost peeled off the course soon after that because he saw a $10 bill on the grass next to the path. Bart was running on PR pace, even though he claimed that someone held his shirt and pulled him backwards at the gun. Bart is known to be a bit of a liar, so race director Veena (a.k.a. Bart's fiancee) put no stock in to his story.

The lead pack picked up the pace, passing two miles in 10:02. Running sub 5 pace was extremely impressive considering the super strong winds and driving rain. At the turnaround, Matty and Ted looked to up the tempo. Despite a deep women's field, Renee also hit the turnaround in the lead. Of course, none of these interim updates could be related to the people waiting back at the finish line, as Bill fell asleep next to the turnaround cones. Thank goodness Abby woke Bill up to go home.

During the second half of the race, Spencer was also moving nicely, despite the fact that he tried to sap Ted's energy on the long warm-up run. In the end, Matty wound up winning the day. He pushed in front of Ted at the three mile mark and held on for the win. "I don't want to sound like a sore loser or anything, but I swear Matty didn't run all the way down to the turnaround. This is b&*(*!" Ted was heard saying after the race. Callinan plans to appeal to USATF Mid-Atlantic. In the women's race, Renee scored her first bit of road race prize cash in eons. "Actually," Renee stated afterwards, "I don't think I have ever won money at a road race, so this is really special!"

The race organizers were extremely generous with their prizes, which included money, champagne, and cookies in the shape of runners and the number 5! A special kudos goes out to Celeste, the race guest from New Hampshire! We hope you enjoyed yourself, Celeste.

9 December, 2006
San Francisco, CA

GIRLS RACE CROSS COUNTRY NATIONALS

For the second straight year, the women's team enjoyed group representation at the Fall edition of the cross country national championships. And they came up with some solid results. Gina and Claire both placed well in to the top 50, with Gina finishing overall, and Claire finishing 36th. Shannon experienced her first big post-collegiate race and gained some open-ranks experience as well.

The PRTC girls were placed in an open box at the starting line, along with Princeton's Cack Farrell, local runner Courtney, and one other runner. Starting from a mixed group box and finding the course narrowing almost instantly, the girls noted that it was tough to get out to a good start. And it seemed that if you didn't get out, you were stuck running in a line. Add what the girls described as "soft, gentle, but muddy footing," and the start did not see the runners going at top end. The rains from the night before eventually turned the course in to what Gina described as a "mud bath."

Gina and Claire both were out to good starts and stated that the first loop near the horse race track seemed to go by fast. After the track, Gina kept "trying to pick people off." Then the runners found some minor log jumps on the course. Finally, the girls had to climb a short, yet steep hill and begin to kick, as there was approximately 800 to 1k left in the race.

With a very deep field and over 240 women in their race, the PRTC girls ran great! Shannon was especially glad to gain the experience so early in her post-collegiate racing. She recounted that she "probably should have run some more cross country this past Fall, as I did many more road races. But cross country is so competitive, and I definitely learned from my mistakes in the race." Nice work, ladies! Way to represent on the West Coast!

2 December, 2006
West Chester, PA

GUNNING FINISHES IN THE TOP THREE AT VERY DEEP BRIAN'S RUN

Coming at the end of an incredible 2006, Renee returned from her international racing trip to run a little closer to home. She capped off a simply superb year by running the hilly road race Brian's Run. With deep prize money, this race always attracts a ton a top-flight talent. That includes Renee. She battled over the hills of West Chester and returned to the track at West Chester University with Kenyans and Ethiopians that train in Pennsylvania and New York. But this hard course, and its 400m circuit of the track for its finish, didn't deter Renee, as she won a nice payday and scored a third place finsih overall. Renee's speed and confidence have surely paid dividends for her this year. We can only wonder what's in store for 2007!

19 & 23 November, 2006
Nijmegen, Holland; Chiba, Japan

PRTC GOES GLOBAL!!!

PRTC has raced in Canada, the British Isles, Italy, Holland, and China. Add Japan to that list. Bart started this round of international racing, competing back at home in the Zevenheuvelenloop 15k. This is an annual 15k race over 7 hills. The first five hills have gradual, continuous climbs, while the remaining hills are shorter. The last 5k of this arduous course thankfully becomes flat and heads back toward the city of Nijmegen. This race is a big one, boasting 30,000 participants! And the race organizers are ambitious, having recruited the likes of Felix Limo (who on this course set the current 15k world record with a time of 41:29) and Geb (who ran 41:46 here in 2005). Paula Radcliffe was also scheduled to compete here in 2005, but canceled at the last minute.

Coming of the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon, Bart felt that he prepared as best he could, while he knew he would not be 100%. "I should probably have run a few more longer hard tempos to get familiar with the race intensity. But trying to steer clear of injury so soon after the marathon, I kept mileage low and emphasized short-fast and speed work."

Bart ran the first 5k in 17:10, feeling the effects of the first large hill. But he increased his tempo from there, splitting 16:44 and 16:27 for the subsequent segments. "I treated it as 3 x 5k. In retrospect, i think I should have run the race with a heart rate monitor because then I could have seen that I was taking it too easy in the beginning. At 11k, I finally got into it and started to race. I passed many, but by then it was too late really" he estimated his effort. But Bart showed no ill effects from Chicago. He is healthy and training, so the Fall was certainly a success!

AS FOR RENEE'S RACE, it was truly a big deal for Renee and PRTC, as it is the first time an athlete from the team has competed for a national squad. Renee's charge was the 10k leg of the relay at the Chiba International Ekiden. Though the women's team did not finish as highly as the men's team, they did place 10th overall. That's not considering they are competing against the rest of the world! Renee has certainly worked extremely hard this year, and her selection to a national squad was the perfect way to cap off 2006. We're happy for you and proud of you too, Renee!

22 November, 2006
Berwick, PA

BYRNE FINISHES SECOND IN SECOND OLDEST AMERICAN ROAD RACE
To make sure he didn't put on any unwanted pounds late on Thanksgiving Day, Matty put his shoes on for a nice hard effort at the Berwick Run for the Diamonds. It is a truly unique race in many ways, as it boasts an extremely challenging course, it is the second oldest road race in the U.S., and the top seven finishers get diamond rings!

Matt worked hard, racing with Fred Joslyn (who recently ran 2:29 at the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon) and Princeton alumnus Tristan Colangelo. Matty took a 100-meter lead over Joslyn near the 3-mile mark, breaking away on the steep uphill portion of the race. But Joslyn made his move over the next mile, catching Matty at the four mile mark. From there, Joslyn held on for the win. And while second place is not what Matty was looking for, the race showed he has recovered well from Steamtown and is ready to race hard in 2007!

19 November, 2006
Philadelphia, PA

WOMEN'S TEAM HAS STRONG SHOWING AT ROTHMAN 8K; PAT WARD AND SEANN MULCAHY DEBUT AT THE MARATHON

Just as the headline indicates, the women's team showed up ready to race at Philly's late Fall road race weekend. Facing big names such as Aziza Ayilu, Clara Peterson (nee Horowitz), and Marina Muncan, Michele paced the girl's team by showing no ill-effects from the Twin Cities Marathon and setting a club record for 8k! Claire continued to show great fitness and scored a PR, along with a sixth place finish in a highly competitive field. And speaking of showing no ill-effects after taking on big races, Abby Dean ran her first official race for PRTC just one week after competing in the Half Ironman World Championships! Amazingly, Abby ran a PR for 8k by over 30 seconds! That's not a bad way to introduce yourself to the team! Finally, Shannon Klick rounded out the women's team, finishing just outside the top - running 30:51 for 11th overall. So in this race, the girls established a new club record, set a bunch of PR's, and placed four runners in the top 11 at a big, deep road race. Sounds like just another day at the office for our girls. Ted competed in the men's 8k, running 24:48.

In the long version of the day's races, Pat Ward and Seann Mulcahy ran their first marathon ever. Pat and Seann were fortunate to find almost ideal conditions at the American Express Philadelphia Marathon. Pat said he felt it was extremely tough late in the race - even to simply keep his legs moving. But Pat and Seann both ran a great first effort and learned a good deal about the marathon before the day was over. Since most of the guys and girls on the team have run marathons before, these two neophytes to the long race should be able to obtain some great tips and advice, making their second effort even that much better. On the day, both Emily and Tom had rough races in the marathon. But Emily has won a marathon before, and we know she will rebound with great races in the near future. The same is true for Tom. Tom has run plenty of great races since joining the club and will definitely turn his ship around. The team believes in both of these athletes, and we can't wait to see what they run in the Spring!

But before the Spring comes, there is the very end of the Fall and the whole Winter ahead. To end the Fall, we will give you a report on Renee's race for Team USA at the International Chiba Ekiden in Chiba, Japan, as well as the performances of Claire, Gina, and Shannon at Club Cross Country Nationals in San Francisco, CA. Good training!

24 October, 2006
Philadelphia, PA

MILESTONE DAY FOR PRTC AS GUNNING IS FIRST TO MAKE USA TEAM!!!

What a Fall. Thanks in part to her solid performances at both the 5k and 10k U.S. road championships recently, Renee Gunning was named to the 2006 International Chiba Ekiden team representing the United States! Ekidens (road relay races) are very big in Japan and have big dollars to spend due its high participation by corporate teams. This particular Ekiden is still a team race, but comprised of national teams as opposed to corporate.

According to USATF guidlines, the women's team selection process takes place in the following manner:

Women's at-large selections: Positions will be filled from a list of best road 5 km - 15 km performances, as well as 5 km and 10 km track performances (based on rank order) from June 1, 2006 to October 9, 2006.

The race takes place on 23 November in Chiba, Japan. This is an absolutely great honor for both Renee and PRTC. While people all over America will be sitting down to honor a tradition in the U.S.A. (obviously our Thanksgiving weekend), Renee will be putting on her U.S.A. singlet! We'll be sure to give you a complete account of Renee's trip and race as soon as we can. Stay tuned, as more guys and girls from the team will be racing this month. In particular, the team will wrap up its Fall marathoning at home, with several of the guys racing the American Express Philadelphia Marathon!

22 October, 2006
Chicago, IL; Boston, MA

MEN'S TEAM SENDS FIVE TO CHICAGO MARATHON; DUNCAN AND LUCREZI RACE MAYOR'S CUP

The LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon was the third marathon on the schedule for our runners. With regards to Olympic Trials qualifying, knowing that the team had gone two for two in the first two marathons of the Fall gave the guys an optimistic feel going into the race.

The course is flat and fast. The organization is first-rate, and the crowd is spectacular at Chicago. Unfortunately, the weather was bit away from optimal. Though forecasts several days out pegged October 22nd to be pretty good, the day before the race brought calls of rain, snow, and wind.

When our guys woke up on Sunday morning, they were somewhat relieved to find out that most of the rain had passed through during the night and was already over the Great Lakes. All that remained were some snowflakes ... and a 39 degree starting temperature ... and winds.

But our guys went into this race prepared and were determined to make a go of it. At the gun, Bryan and Ted ran close to each other, as Hatch, Tim, and Bart decided to work together. Here are the personal accounts of what happened with some of our guys as the race unfolded.

Bart
I missed the first mile clock, came through two miles in 10:48 and thought that was a a bit too quick; 5:35's would have been more suitable. Then i spotted Tim and Hatch just up ahead. I connected with their little pack and cruised very comfortable through the first 5 miles with splits that encompassed two 5:27s, then ~5:34 splits. The wind slowed down the next miles some, still I felt that the pace of the pack was a bit too high. I didn't want to work yet - wanted to be somewhat conservative through the half. Thus, these windy miles were a bit slower - 5:38- 5:39.

With the wind mostly in the back, i increased my tempo again, low 5:30's, and came throught the half in 1:12:25. I was caught by myself on the strong headwind stretch from mile 13 through mile 15. I was afraid this would happen, but there was no one near. Mike and Tim's pack was 100 yards ahead and I did not dare to up the pace and catch them to tuck in yet. I ran as relaxed as I could. All went well, and my splits stayed around 5:34-5:40 through mile 22.

I saw Bryan having some trouble at 17, and I advanced on Tim during mile 19. At that point, I was still on course for a ~2:26. Then, i started to feel some fatigue and had to start working some. Then I hit my first significantly slower mile (6:00). I kept form a bit with a 6:31, but the last miles were trouble. I could more or less keep running, but with about a mile to go, I came to a grinding halt. It wasn't pain; the legs just felt totally weak. I stopped for a few seconds, and managed another quarter mile. I had phosphenes (silver/white sparkles) all over my visual field and wondered if I could make it in running. With two more such stops, I reached the top of the bridge, and then ran down the finish straight as well as I could. My 2:33 was an 8 minute PR, but obviously not what I thought I could do. What went wrong? I have some ideas - cold, me vs. the wind, perhaps not enough food on Friday and the night before the race ... Most of all, I know I just have to put my shoes on and run some more.

Tim
“How come anytime I have met someone from Chicago they are so happy to tell me how proud they are to be from Chicago, yet I have never met them in Chicago?” I can’t answer that question for Jeb Bartlet, but I now know why one would be proud to be from Chicago.

After a connector to Atlanta, we (my girlfriend Trish and I) made it into Chicago at 1 in the afternoon on Friday, took the train to The Loop and walked to our hotel on the Magnificent Mile. As she took a nap, I went for a short run and quickly remembered that I had been cramped in an airplane seat for several hours. That was easily the worst I felt on a run in months, always exciting two days before a race. OF course I knew why I felt like crap, so there was little need to worry. During my brief 5 miles, I did see that Chicago was nice, and was surprised how cool it is to be running through skyscrapers and then suddenly end up on a giant lake.

On Saturday morning, we slept in a little before Ted and I went for an easy run down to the start area and back to the hotel. Seeing everything being put together, the sheer size of it all was starting to get me excited for the race. Stretched (I wish hotel rooms were bigger because it can be annoying stretching in a cramped room), showered, and then walked over a few blocks to the Hilton to catch one of several free shuttle buses that were looping around downtown Chicago to take people to the expo to grab packets and bib numbers. I found this to be both convenient and a really cool idea on the marathon’s part. I was slowly falling in love with Chicago. Back to the hotel and grabbed lunch at Potbelly’s; that was really good. We were forced to order take out because no restaurants had reservations before 9.

On race morning, we warmed up from the hotel to the start area, and went into the top 100 tent (another nice convenience), stretched and headed to the start. From the gun, Hatch and I linked up and found ourselves in a very nice little pack. A few quick early miles (despite the cold, wind, and a few snow flurries) put us a little head of target (2:25), but that was fine. The awesome crowds made the early parts of the race go by quickly, and by the time we hit halfway (1:12:19), I was completely in love with Chicago. Our nice pack hit 15 right on target but was beginning to start feeling the race a little. Things were good up until 18, but I started preparing myself mentally for the pain. I grabbed two GU’s at the Power Gel station. By now, I had fallen off of Hatch, but still had plenty of company. I knew I was falling of pace badly, but I wanted to at least hang on for a su-2:30 finish.

When I got to 22 (and had to fight the packaging of my second GU to get it open), I was pretty well licked. Even though I did have to stop and walk a few times to try and get my legs going again, the last few miles went by kind of quickly.

Obviously the race didn’t unfold the way I wanted, though it was the first one I finished, so I still found the experience was awesome and am already itching to race another one again. There is a lot of little things that need to be addressed, but I hope I get to race again soon, especially with my PRTC/Puma mates.

Hatch
I stepped to the line Sunday feeling rather ill-prepared. My training had taken a hit thanks to the increased workload of med school's second year. While the obvious practical applications of cardiology, renal physiology, and pulmonology have peaked my interest as a runner, trying to master it all in preparation for exams has severely limited my mileage this Fall.
Owing to all the excitement of Chicago and the fantastic crowd support, I was out way too fast through the mile mark and even the 2 mile, coming through in 5:26, and just a shade under 10:50. Tim shouted a word of warning, providing me with a quick reality check, and we both agreed to calm the pace. We let a sizeable pack pull away, but it was definitely the right move. I came through the 5K just under 17:00, and subsequent 5K's went by in 17:15, 17:08, and 17:11. Then I slowed down to a 17:28 from 20-25K, 17:38 to 30K. It was at this point that things began to get ugly. 
The pack I was with slowly began to dissociate and the cold began to set in. But most importantly, I began to feel the effects of my lack of mileage in preparation. I cruised through 20 at about 1:51:30, on pace for a decent PR, but the last 10K was a miserable experience. The seventh 5K crawled by in 18:24, and the eighth in 19:18 to bring me to 40K. By this point, I was taking down all the Gatorade and energy gel I could get my hands on, hoping not to fall victim to cramps like so many I had passed by in the closing miles. My last 10K was quite disappointing, but I was pleased to cross the line under 2:30:00. I believe the decals had been removed from the pavement by the time I reached the line --- likely helping me to avoid a spill of my own given the state of fatigue and confusion I was experiencing. 
All in all, I was neither thrilled nor terribly upset about the outcome of the race. It was a great weekend in Chicago, and I was thrilled to see Ted get his OT qualifier. Hopefully sometime in the near future, I'll know the feeling of entering the homestretch as 2:21:XX ticks by. 

Ted
I have been looking forward to returning to Chicago ever since we raced here in 2003. I think this particular city marathon is first rate. The people who put this race on do a spectacular job. Race director Carey Pinkowski could obviously not be a bigger supporter of American distance running, the city is great, and the whole town is about the marathon all weekend.

I knew I had done a lot of work to prepare for this race and that I could possibly run a good time. But when we heard on Saturday about the pending conditions for race day, I was nervous. In the end, I realized that there was nothing we could do about the weather anyway, so there was no point in wasting energy worrying about it.

It meant a lot to me to run this big marathon with my brother. We started our warm-up from the hotel, since we were a little over a mile from the start. Though the forecast on Saturday called for rain, snow, cold temperatures, and wind - only the latter two met us on Sunday morning. Apparently, the rain had blown through the city overnight and was already over the Great Lakes. It was 39 degrees in the morning. When Tim and I arrived at the Top 100 tent, Skelly said that someone had come around telling the men and women in the tent that they would be walked out to the starting line at 7:30 - as opposed to the 7:45 indicated previously. This was troublesome, as it was pretty cold out, and we had to be mostly stripped down going to the line.

At the start, the race felt good. I made sure I checked the mile split to get a feel for a comfortable, smart pace. Skelly and I were running near each other from the beginning. At mile 4, I felt a slight twinge in my right glut. This is the one damn thing that has hampered me ever since I crossed the finish line in Birmingham in the beginning of 2004. Usually, a hard pace puts my butt through great duress. I have felt that my glut has improved drastically over the last year, and the twinge usually goes away after a few miles ... if it hasn't already done me in. I figured that the calm pace should help keep this problem from putting the race out of reach. I was lucky to be right. At 8 miles, the twinge was gone.

I was excited that I was staying within the pack, the cool temperatures were not too cold, and that we were running good splits. I reached 10 miles in 53:57, and I felt great! Having run 6 marathons before, I knew not to take anything for granted. However, I was slowly starting to believe that despite the winds, this could wind up being a good day. I tried to take my fluids intelligently, making sure I took the Gatorade Endurance more often that not early on. However, I have come to believe that passing a table or two isn't bad either. I tried to mix bulking my energy stores with listening to my body.

At the halfway mark, the group I was running with had split 1:10.15. This small bit of cushion seemed ideal, but I heard that the winds were generally coming from the north and heading south in the latter part of the morning. If that was to be the case, I was sure that the winds would be directly in our face as we made the long last charge out of South Chicago back to Lakeshore Drive.

I reached 20 miles in 1:47.30, and things were going well. Not long after that mile marker, however, my calves spasmed just a little bit. I was also starting to feel a little tightness to either side of my groin. The solid pack that I had been running with most of the morning had dissapated, as some guys fell off, some tried to push ahead, and each and every guy was having his own personal battle with the wind.

No matter what, I was determined to either make the time or run a good bit over it. I don't think I could have taken another time just over 2:22. Fatigue had now set in by 23, and my splits were admittedly starting to creep slightly upward. For some reason, I remember a bit of Gatorade Endurance splashing out of my cup in the wind and hitting my left eye. I ran for a quarter mile with only one eye open, trying to dry my eyeball.

As I passed 25 miles, I knew it was going to be close. We had to make the 90 degree right with about 800m to go, climb over the overpass which takes you past the train lines, and then make the 90 degree left down to the finish. I glanced at my watch a few times and pushed as hard as I possibly could. The damn little hill was killing me, and I thought it would again be the thing that does me in here in Chicago. I was determined to have some sort of redemption for 2003. But to be honest, when I made the left turn (the 26 mile marker signboard is sitting right there on your right), I thought there was simply too much real estate to cover. I was running in failure, but there was nothing left to do but push my way to the mats. As I closed in on the finish line, I noticed the two guys in front of me putting their arms up in celebration. I looked up at the clock and realized that I was going to run under 2:22 by the slimmest of margins.

I know I can run faster, and my race certainly wasn't pretty. But I am glad that I kept my composure in the closing stages, especially with the specter of 2003 looming large. Running in the big races for the team always feels great. I am always proud of this team. I was extremely proud of all the guys that were running for the team that day in Chicago. I was thankful to have Michelle, Trish, Renee, and Mr. Skelly on the course. I am 100% sure we will get a few more of the guys qualified for the 2008 Olympic Trials before all is said and done. There are simply too many good, hard-working guys and girls on this team. I can't wait to watch them make it.

MEANWHILE, Claire Duncan and Gina Lucrezi laced up their cross country spikes in Boston for the B.A.A. Mayor's Cup. The Mayor's Cup was the first race ever competed by the team - which means this racing weekend marked PRTC's sixth birthday! Claire and Gina are planning on racing at the USATF Club Cross Country Championships in the beginning of December, and this race serves as perhaps the best high level post-collegiate race on the Eastern Seaboard prior to USATFs.

Claire and Gina ran great races, finishing just one second apart. Claire's time on Franklin Park's course established a women's club record on that course. There have been plenty of new marks established on both the records page, as well as the all-time performance lists, so be sure to check them out.

14 October, 2006
Mt. Ephraim, NJ

For the second straight year, PRTC's Jay Wassel decided to take part in the Heroes to Hero 5k. This race is in memoriam of the fallen firefighters from Mt. Ephraim and Gloucester who died several years ago while saving people from a burning home in Gloucester. These men were Tom Stewart III, Jim Sylvester, and John West Sr.

Jay Wassel used this race as rust-buster. He is planning on racing on 22 October at venerable Franklin Park in the Mayor's Cup. He will be racing along with Pat Ward, Claire Duncan, and Gina Lucrezi. Jay had to fight it out with a host of international Kenyans through the streets of Mt. Ephraim and into downtown Gloucester. Jay held on for eighth place, which kept him in the race for the overall cash prizes.

Upon hearing that she needs to stay race-sharp for Ekiden team consideration, Renee decided to also take part in this high level local race. Renee was also racing a few Kenyans, along with former collegiate rival Clara Peterson (nee Horowitz). This is the second duel of the year (they went head-to-head at the Belmar 5 - see past Web site news). Renee ran a solid race, finishing 5th overall and clocking 16:42. This time gives Renee another notch on the team's all-time performance list. Great racing, Renee and Jay!

In an exciting race that saw an early leader come through the half in 1:07, and blow up at mile 21, Matt Byrne took the win and showed that he is back on track. Breaking the tape in 2:21:50, Matt qualified for the Fall 2007 USA Olympic trials in New York. A Scranton native, Matt received a warm applause and attracted much media attention - some links are posted below. Ross Martinson placed third in 2:24:57, roughly a minute faster than his previous performance on this course.

The Times-Tribune, 8 September, 2006
STEAMTOWN MARATHON COVERAGE: BYRNE WINS FOR A SECOND TIME

The Times-Tribune, 9 September, 2006
STEAMTOWN MARATHON COVERAGE: BYRNE BECOMES FIRST TWO TIME WINNER

GUNNING FINISHES SEVENTH AT U.S. 5k CHAMPS!

On Sunday morning, Renee took her Summer racing sharpness up to Rhode Island to compete in the U.S. Road 5k Championships. This championships is held annually at the CVS/Pharmacy Downtown 5k in Providence. Renee had been suffering from sickness all week and considered pulling out of the race as close as that Thursday. Yet Renee knew she was fit, and so she made the trip.

Renee proved that her road wins all Summer were no fluke. Renee finished a stunning 7th place in the U.S. Championships in 16:32. Renee was running in as high as fifth place late in to the race. And on of the two women to pass Renee was Erin Donohue, who finished the Summer with the second fastest mile by an American woman this year. So needless to say, Renee was hanging with the big guns. Renee's performance puts a stamp on this biggest year of development in the women's team to date.

BORGHUIS RUNS 4 MINUTE PR; DUNCAN AND WARD RUN STRONG HALF DEBUTS

Meanwhile, back in Philly, the men's team and the remainder of the women's team that were racing on this weekend, awoke to somewhat and humid conditions. Though there was cloud cover early, the clouds broke about five minutes before the gun at the Jefferson Hospital Philadelphia Distance Run.

As always, PDR boasted a large pack of talented American runners, as well as a truly international field. And by the time the day was over, Philadelphia spectators would see Abdi Abdirahman flirt with the American half marathon record.

At the gun, Emily and Claire were joined by PRTC newcomer Abby Dean. Abby brings significant credentials to the women's team - especially with regard to the races between 10 miles and the marathon. The men's team found themselves working together in two groups early in the race. Skelly, Ross, and Ted ran through the early miles in the city together, trying to hold five minute flat pace despite the warm temperatures.

As the race wound towards West River Drive, Tim, Tom, Hatch, and Bart worked together as a strong nucleus, demonstrating the men's team true depth. Skelly pushed ahead of Ross and Ted a little before the East Falls Bridge, and would end the day as the men's team's first finisher. This performance capped a strong Summer on the roads for Skelly.

Meanwhile, Emily kept running towards her performance that would garner her position as the first local finisher for the second straight year. And Claire, who afterwards said she might have been a little too overzealous in the early miles, found her rhythm and was running a spectacular race for her first attempt at the half marathon. Claire usually focuses on mid-distance races, so her decision to utilize her training strength in this race was a good one. Claire and Abby would finish very close to one another in their first race together.

As the second men's pack ran down Kelly Drive, Bart pushed ahead, setting PRs at several distances as he made his way toward the Art Museum. As you read in the headline, Bart PR'd by an astounding four minutes! His race was truly incredible. And by the time Hatch and Tim crossed the line, the men's team had placed six men under 1:10 and had secured the team title once again. Seann Mulcahy followed

The newcomer on the men's side - Pat Ward -  ran a smart first half marathon to finish in 1:13.01, followed by Seann Mulcahy in 1:14:56. A la Matt Byrne, teammate Spencer Shelly made a long awaited return to racing as well.

9 September, 2006
Philadelphia, PA

BORGHUIS SHARPENS UP FOR PDR

Looking to sharpen up before the Jefferson Hospital Philadelphia Distance Run, Bart took part in the annual Paper Mill run, a small 5k race on Forbidden drive. After injury precluded track racing in the Spring, Bart is back and has been training intensively all Summer. Bart took a vacation to Italy and was able to enjoy two weeks of solid training in the rolling hills of Tuscany. He returned refreshed and re-energized and proved it today, taking the top place in the Paper Mill 5k. When the gun went off, Bart went out hard, and no-one followed closely. Unfortunately, the turn around point on this out-and-back course had not been marked and race-volunteers were still looking for the right spot when Bart passed. Turning more than a quarter mile too far, Bart ran hard to catch up, and finished 20 seconds behind the leaders, in 4th place. Race officials offered a re-run, but realizing that he had technically run a 6k, the winner and second place finisher unamymously decided to grant Bart the win.

3 September, 2006
Avalon, NJ

ANOTHER STRONG PRTC PERFORMANCE DOWN THE SHORE

In perhaps the last PRTC performance at a shore destination until next Spring, Ted Callinan took part in the Tim Kerr 7 Mile Island Run in Avalon, NJ. Ted raced under sunny skies on this Labor Day weekend morning. Though the field for this race was not extremely deep, it did have South Jersey native Matt Marcini, a 2004 Olympic Marathon Trials Qualifier. Like many of our PRTC runners, Marcini is in heavy training for a Fall marathon. Scheduled originally to run Chicago, an injury to Marcini in early July has him looking to take part in our hometown marathon in late November! Ted averaged 5:08 per mile and was able to win the race in 35:55

27 August, 2006
Stone Harbor, NJ

SKELLY AND GUNNING GO 2 - 3(OVERALL!) AT STONE HARBOR 10k

Yes, you read it right. This weekend brought an extremely impressive race from Renee. She finished third. No, not in the women's race - OVERALL! Joined by Claire Duncan and Rob Hewitt, Brian and Renee concluded their full Summer racing schedule with the Stone Harbor 10k. Brian outran all competitors except one Kenyan. Brian has certainly strung together a fine schedule of races. Renee continued her winning ways and increased her cash prize total for the Summer. This race fitness will aid Renee when she takes to the line at the U.S. road 5k championships in a few weeks. Having run fewer races this Summer, Claire posted an impressive performance in the 10k and finished in the winner's circle. She captured third place in a time of 37:20. Rob Hewitt opted for the shorter race, where he stopped the clock in 17:10.

6 August 2006
Rehoboth, DE & Wakefield, RI

TWO FAST TIMES BY TWO PRTC GIRLS IN TWO STATES! PRTC TAKES PART IN MEMORIAL RACES

PRTC was contacted by the race director of the Run for JJ 5k, as he was looking to provide the deepest field possible. Though she is only in base training, Iowa native Michelle Lilienthal decided she would see the Deleware shore and get in a race as well. The prize money drew an elite field. But that doesn't bother Michelle. She turned back the spoiling efforts of Kenyan Naomi Wangui and scored a decisive 27 second victory. Michelle is returning to base training. But you can be sure that when she comes around to racing season, she will run even much faster than her speedy 16:49 here today!

While Michelle was busy racing south of Philadelphia on this weekend, a few other PRTC teammates were racing north of town. Bryan Skelly and Renee Gunning joined their LaSalle alumni for a memorial race in the name of teammate Kerri Bessette - who passed away due to meningitus. Renee said "It was a fun time. I ended up breaking the old course record of 22:40 set by Jenna Darcy for an extra prize bonus. I am just trying to gear up for the US 5k Champs coming up on September 17th (CVS Downtown held in Providence, RI)." Bryan finished seventh overall in a fast men's race which saw the course record (held by Providence grad and Irish national Vinnie Mulvey) fall. The men's winner last year was none other than PRTC runner Ryan Fennelly.

29 July, 2006
West Ocean City, MD; Philadelphia, PA

PRTC RUNNERS TAKE FIRST PLACE IN TWO STATES

Racing for general fitness amongst the members of PRTC continues. In the last full weekend of July, Tim Callinan was taking in the sights of Ocean City, Maryland. But he combined that small vacation with a little road racing. His first hard effort of the Summer, Tim took first place in the Green Turtle West 5k.

Back in PA, five other members of the team took place in a race which is a staple for many locals. The race is somewhat unique in that it is run in the very place where the team practices very Sunday - Forbidden Drive. The race starts out by the Chestnut Hill stables and runs East. The course then turns back towards the end of Forbidden Drive. Ross made it the third different male on the team to win a road race outright this month, stopping the clock at 25:49. Bryan Skelly ran his fifth race of the Summer, rounding out the winner's circle in third. These two were joined by Bart, who posted a solid effort of 26:33, and Seann, who ran 28:06.

Renee Gunning continued to augment her win total, garnering first place with a 28:13. And Claire broke up her Summer training with a hard speed workout. Claire's work paid off, as she was able to capture second place in 29:58.

23 July, 2006
Avalon, NJ

Gunning and Skelly Keep the Summer Road Racing Going

The Web site racing news for July might as well be dubbed the 'Bryan and Renee' show. Both having enjoyed excellent returns to fitness, Bryan Skelly and Renee Gunning have used some Summer road races to sharpen their speed. They started the month near Bryan's hometown in the Pitman Freedom 4 Miler. The very next weekend, they traveled to the Central Jersey shore, running the Belmar 5 Miler. This past weekend, Bryan and Renee finished out the month by racing at the South Jersey shore.

The Avalon Run from the Sun takes place at the beautiful Avalon Yacht Club. Though it was admittedly a small race, Bryan intentionally ran himself hard in the first mile to practice continuous running after hitting a small lactate threshold spike. Bryan was pleased with the effort and a chance to turn the legs over. Renee was also happy to get the chance to race. Both our runners captured the overall wins, bettering their finishing places from Belmar.

And to show true girl power, Renee drove home while Bryan slept the ride away.

8 July, 2006. Belmar, NJ
TWO PRTC RUNNERS FINISH IN THE 2 SPOT!

PRTC runner and Puma rep phenom Bryan Poerner solicited his teammates to take a break from Summer training a few years ago and run a race in early July on the central Jersey shore. Since then, the Belmar 5 Miler has become, in one fashion or another, a staple on the PRTC Summer schedule.

But the Belmar 5 Miler is no easy Summer shuffle. It is a vital part of the USATF-NJ road race scene and a must-run for every Central and North Jersey runner, as well as an attraction for many runners out of New York City.

This year, the team sent along three men and one new member of the girl's team - Renee Gunning! Renee is from the Philadelphia area and a graduate of North Carolina State University. Renee works at Philadelphia Runner and joined the team in June! You will be definitely reading a lot more about Renee. Her bio will appear on the bio page soon.

Though Renee now is competing in the open ranks, she found herself on this day competing against an old collegiate rival - Clara Horowitz of Duke University (which sits just miles away from NC State). Horowitz ran this race off of fitness she is enjoying from her last season in the NCAA - which ended just two weeks ago. She recently signed a professional contract with New Balance. Despite this and the fact that Renee is just getting in to shape, she was able to finish second overall behind Horowitz. Renee's speedy time would have won 11 of the last 13 editions of this race!

On the men's side, Bryan Skelly ran his second road race of the week (he finished second overall at the Pitman Freedom 4 Miler back near his hometown of Washington Township, NJ) and finished second as well. Though Bryan finished within seconds of winner Shadrack Too, Bryan said Too seemed to have the energy at the end and just wanted to hold on for the victory. But Bryan is in heavy Summer training, as he is looking for a Fall marathon, so this performance was great. Ross and Bart finished fourth and ninth respectively to place the three men we sent to the race in the top ten! Nice work, team!

16 June, 2006
SUMMERTIME SAUNTER

Most athletes for PRTC are either on their break or in the early stages of their training. Yet there's always room for a fun, local Summertime road race. PRTC enjoyed representation from two guys and one new girl to the team at the annual Media 5 Miler.

Held on a Friday evening, the Media 5 Miler is a rolling, two-lap course. With many Widener roots, Mucharia Yuot (who completed an unthinkable trifecta at the DIII National Championships) secured the overall win, missing Mike McKeeman's 2005 time by just several seconds. Yuot completed the course in 25:17. PRTC's Mike Hatch grabbed second in 25:39. One week back in to training, Widener grad Tim Callinan was the team's second finisher in 26:21.

In the women's race, Shannon Klick (whose brother also ran for Widener) took the outright title. Shannon is currently joining PRTC and will surely add depth to the already deep women's squad. Shannon's broke the tape at 32:11. Great race, Shannon!

In a few weeks, some members of PRTC will take to the Summer roads at Belmar 5 Miler. We'll be sure to give you the report!