The Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) half marathon team took to the course in Durham, N.C. over the weekend for the RDC Half Marathon. After a memorable race of battling challenging conditions, the four Lakehawks finished within the top-15 with three recording new personal records (PR).
The first stretch of the course was nearly two miles through the Streets of Southpoint before leading the runners onto the Scenic American Tobacco Trail. Then, the runners turn back just after mile seven to finish back at the Streets of Southpoint where the race began.
Despite a steady rain that cleared just before the 7:15 a.m. start, the team braved the chilly 53-degree weather with determination, competing in a field of nearly 300 runners.
William Petersen took a second overall, recording an 11-minute PR from the previous half marathon race. Following close behind was Thatcher Clarke, taking sixth, who also recorded nearly a four-minute PR.
Spencer Palmer, competing in his first half marathon, took seventh with a time of 1:25:55, followed by Owen Kingeryfinishing 12th with just short of a seven-minute PR.
Head Coach Cristy Snellgroves shared her thoughts on the team’s strategy and execution throughout Sunday’s race, “The men ran smart against a competitive field, pacing themselves, demonstrating racing maturity beyond their years.”
“It is exciting to see these young men embrace the challenge of running 13.1 miles and push their limits with such determination, proving what can be achieved through hard work, resilience, and a commitment to excellence,” said Coach Snellgroves.
The Lakehawks will now prepare for their final race of the season, the 2024 NJCAA Men’s Half Marathon Championships, which will be held in Richmond, Va. on Tuesday, Nov. 12.
Final Results
2. William Petersen – 1:23:36 (PR)
6. Thatcher Clarke – 1:25:34 (PR)
7. Spencer Palmer – 1:25:55
12. Owen Kingery – 1:30:18 (PR)
Follow the Lakehawks
Next Race: The 2024 NJCAA Men’s Half Marathon Championships in Richmond, Va. on Tuesday, Nov. 9.
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