I remember when Alan was a strong age group swimmer in Reston who converted to running at South Lakes. He was nearly state champion in cross country as a frosh in a state, Virginia, that had many competitive programs and a rich history. He was an immense talent and still has the U.S. mile record. We locals remember his astounding 13:57 solo from the gun time at Burke Lake Park over a 2.98 mile cross country course, a time still 22 seconds ahead of 50 years of runners including some sub 4:05 milers and eventual US national Junior or Senior team members. He will forever be a U.S. all timer.
Now, as a 39 year old with a young family and no recent races, a 4:15 would be pretty remarkable and among the best his age in the U.S. for 39 year olds who have talent plus 2 full years of recent training. I figure 4:25 and lots of graciousness and happiness about still being fast and not broken after his 10+ years of super intensive training. I wonder if this means Alan will be a masters runner who inspires many others to do the same and helps popularize the sport that way as Bill Rogers did for an earlier generation. He’s got the talent plus the sociability and genuine interest in others to fill that role if he wants it. I am rooting for him, once again.