Our very own Jeremy Wysocki--former 'Berg harrier and innagural member of USATF-certified running club the Orb--made his debut in the half marathon this morning as part of the Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon festivities. Wysocki, who has yet to log a 60-mile week in 2008 surpassed even his own expectations, running a brisk 1:15:49 and finishing 7th overall at the distance. The 'Pig' was merely a stepping stone for the runner along the path to his goal race: the Detroit Free Press Marathon (October 19th). With the addition of a bit more volume, a summer dedicated to building capillaries and the eventual implementation of quality work, Wysocki's ultimate goal of sub-2:30 in Detroit suddenly doesn't seem as far-fetched as it once did.Former ONU harrier Mark Bierkan--member of the 2007 All-Time OAC record-holding 4x8 team (7:37)--also made his 13.1-mile debut at the 'Pig' running just behind Wysocki in 1:16:16 (9th overall). The former middie has recently joined the post-collegiate running group Earth Drummers and seems to be embracing races of longer distances, showcasing some good range. According to our source, Mark was in the lead pack at around 11 miles, when the group was directed off the course. A few athletes dropped out at that point, while Mark and some others attempted to find their way back. While Mark ended up getting back on course, he ran approximately 14 miles. His estimated finish time was said to have been around an impressive 1:11.
Otterbein alum Nate Ritz ran the full marathon Sunday, finishing in a time of 2:39:58 which was good for 7th overall.
