The Lincoln Half Marathon was a good mix of experience and youth for Team Nebraska. Matt Pohren (27), Eric Rasmussen (29), Matt Schneider (27), Lee Anderson (23), Shain Kephart (26), Ryan Salem (36), Matt Seiler (24), Cheto Cerda (26), and David Bohlken (26) led the way for the mates. Ryan Salem never gives anything less than his best and it is never a surprise when he is in the middle of our youth parade. Add in Anthony Oberle at 23 (a 30:00 10K runner when at UNL) who was serving pacing duties, and Rachel Carrizales (25) and I like the future of the club with these young guns all in their twenties.
That would be another hallmark of Team Nebraska. The median age of the club has continued a downward trend since the year it was formed, inching ever closer to a predominantly post collegiate strata. While continuing to load up the top of the age groups too. Athletes like Ryan and James and Aaron and Brian Bergt modeling competitive excellence well into their thirties, forties, and beyond.
The sea of Red & White at the start of Sunday’s races. The Youth Movement of competitive distance running in Nebraska. Nice to see some Blue of the Lincoln Running Co. up front as well, I like their distinct kit.
Matty P. seems like a veteran with his vast competitive experience but still sets personal bests nearly every time he races.
When Ras is on, he is really on. Just :34 back of Matty Sunday, he’ll be a force at this summer’s Club T&F National Championships.
How tough is Matt Schneider? He ran a very hot Steeplechase just the day before Sunday’s Half.
Lee Anderson punched his ticket to the Hospital Hill Team Challenge with his 1:15:34.
Shain Kephart did very well despite an interrupted training cycle. I’m excited to see what he can roll with a full segment behind him.
Former Nebraska Wesleyan standout Ryan Salem is the ageless one at 36. He somehow manages to balance a job, family, and training to equal parts success.
Cheto Cerda and I have a connection that goes all the way back to the 1980s in Baytown, Texas. Another of our Wayne State alumni.
David Bohlken has been the surprise of this year for me. He continues to improve despite those shoes that have 7000 miles on them.
Jimmie Dougherty (aka “Lucky”) works his butt off with Shain and David, his work ethic promises a breakthrough this fall.
Yes, 50 year old Brian Bergt really did run a 1:23:10. Showing the depth and breadth of the Good Mates!
45 year old Steve Stender ran the half completely barefoot in 1:26:49 to capture the 45-49 age group. He’s shown here passing former mate and all around good guy Chris Stiffler as they approach the stadium.
Linda & I were bringing up the Rear on Sunday but our thoughts were always with the Good Mates of all ages, doing their best and making us all proud. Giddyup!
Tomorrow I’ll recap the Omaha Endurance Group mates, some very inspiring stories to be sure!
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