Race Previews: April 15-16

Spring weather is finally here, but that doesn't mean the men and women of GRC will be stopping to smell the roses any time soon. In fact, it will be a busy weekend on the tracks and roads for the GRC harriers.

On Friday evening, Pacers hosts the third of five Crystal City Friday 5ks. Representing the men will be Dave O, Pat K, and Kyle C. Kyle will look to re-employ his start-line intimidation tactics that nabbed him fifth place in week 1 (as seen below). On the women's side, Kerry will attempt to live up to the high expectations set by the winning performances from Kara and LTO in previous weeks.

Photo courtesy of Swim Bike Run Photography

The track crew will divide and conquer on Saturday at the Loyola-Johns Hopkins Track & Field Invitational and Bison Outdoor Classic. In Baltimore, Hannah R will make her return to the track in the women's 5000 to build on her massively successful 2015 season. A few hours later in the 1500, Liz will make her GRC debut, while Kara and Alyson make their GRC track debuts. Ryan Witters will be on double duty for GRC, racing both the 800 and 1500. The unquestionable highlight of the meet will be the Mascot 100m Dash at 4pm. As of press time, GRC officials are frantically trying to clear mascot Bruno for entry into the race, where he would face the likes of the Oriole Bird and Poe from the Baltimore Ravens. Live results from Loyola-Hopkins Invitational will be posted here.

GRC mascot Bruno

Further north, a strong squad of GRC track stars will race at Bucknell in the Bison Outdoor Classic. Carlos will run his first competitive track 10,000 as a tuneup for a Trials qualifier attempt on the west coast in June. Insiders report that the club record could be at risk. Husband and wife duo Stewart and Steph will look to continue their streak of strong races. Steph, who is making her return to her alma mater is gunning for a PR and possible club record in the 5,000. Fresh off his first sub-15 minute performance, Stewart will be taking a break from the 12.5 lap race to compete in the 1500. Phil, Kyle W, and Luk will run the men's 5,000. Phil will be making his 2016 debut, which was delayed by a nagging injury. Phil was GRC's top man at Clubs and is undoubtedly on his way back up the pantheon of greatness. Live results will be posted here.

Stay tuned for results from these weekend races and for a preview of the 120th running of the Boston Marathon.

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