Dan and Bricyn arrived in Albuquerque ready to do battle with the top athletes in the USA. They did not disappoint. Racing at over 5000 feet above sea level can negatively affect distance races. Based upon the steady splits and times consistent with sea level performances, it does not seem to have caused problems for either of them.
Dan held a secure 2nd place for the entire 15 lap race, never being challenged for the silver medal, and crossing the line is a very strong 12:19.23, only 11 seconds off his sea level PR. For his efforts, he brought home $4000 as well. Dan’s 1600m split of 6:17.74 coverts to a 6:20.3 time for a full mile, which sets a new club record for the distance, besting his 6:30.8 from 2022.
Bricyn was in 3rd place early, but spent the majority of the race tucked away in 6th place. A late surge over the last 2 laps (400m) saw him overtake Jordan Crawford, the NAIA #1 athlete, and finish in 5th overall. Most impressive was being able to have his last lap be his fastest of the race. He takes home $1000 for the effort.
