You know what I’ve been thinking? When you break a record from 1975, go viral on Twitter, and secure the fifth best 2-mile time in the country this spring, that’s pretty good.
Nathan Lopez of St. John’s Prep did just that in the Meet of Champions, recording an 8:59.29 in the 2-mile to thundering applause. On top of that, it was his third consecutive state title in the event – hence why Lopez held up three fingers as he completed the race.
If you haven’t watched the video online, I strongly recommend it. As if he stole something, Lopez ran away from a pack of runners in the blink of an eye – nearly lapping the last-place runner, also.
The 1975 meet record was held by former Olympian and New York City Marathon runner Alberto Salazar of Wayland. Adding to the craziness, Lopez ran while it was 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
I’ve had the pleasure of chatting with Lopez several times this year – once for a story, another at an Item All-Star ceremony. He’s as respectful and professional as you’d hope for from an athlete of his caliber.
Oh, and something tells me he’ll be a part of spring Item All-Stars, too. To the Lynnfield native and soon-to-be Michigan Wolverine, good week.
