The Nike Outdoor National 2 Mile more than lived up to the hype. Jeff Nelson's 29 year old record fell when German crossed the line in 8:34.4, easily pulling away from a superb field. En route he also topped the National Record for 3000 meters. (7:59.83). Quality runners like Luke Puskedra (UT), Colby Lowe (TX) and Rob Finnerty (MN) had no answer when he dropped them one by one after the 1st mile.
The question is, "Is Fernandez the best High School Track Distance Runner ever?" In my opinion, Yes. I still believe he has not been pushed to his limit. He simply leaves everyone behind as he hammers away at the most even pacing I have ever seen. He's a human metronome. I think under the right circumstances he can go Sub 4 and run an even faster 2 Mile.
It puts his mark into perspective when you see the names of some of the runners now behind him on the All-time HS 2 Mile list (Lindgren, Nelson, Virgin, Prefontaine, etc). His same day double (4:00/8:34 1600/3200) will set the standard for distance doubles for years to come. I look forward to watching him compete for years to come.
Tx fans take note. Today at Nike Outdoor Southlake Carroll won the Distance Medley (Lowe, 4:05 anchor) and The Woodlands won the 4 x Mile.
Also tonight at USATF Juniors Elijah Greer of Oregon (a HS Junior!) clocked a US #1 1:47.68. The stars keep shining.
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