The Bobcat Nation

Patrick ran in the 3rd heat along with Bernard Lagat (living legend, US record Holder in 1500{3:26}), Lopez Lmong (former NAU standout, current Nat'l Champion). The top 3 from each heat advanced, plus the next 4? fastest times. Pat's heat started off very slow, so qualifying on time was not going be an option. He had to finish in the top 3. The first two heats both finished in the 3:40 range. Pat's heat winner finished in 3:44.

Pat started off in the back 3rd of the pack (12 runners in each heat). By the second lap he setteled into last. At about 600 meters on runner made a move from about 6th to take the lead....the sprint was on. Lagat and Lmong also moved up to stay with the shooter. The whole pack sped up & Pat stayed in last. With 200 left Pat found another gear and was able to pass a couple runners. He finished 8th. I think he came in around 3:48. His best time this spring was MSU record 3:41.

This was an extremely talented group in the 1500. I think this race will only make Patrick better. It shows that he is in the top 25 or so milers in the US, but it will take a lot of work to crack into the top 5. Even if he would have matched his personal best, he probably wouldn't have made the finals. Most of these guys have been running nationally/internationally for 5+ years.

Pat did MSU proud....again.

Thanks for the updates.

The finals was a VERY tactical race. First 2 1/2 laps looked like a jog. Guys were pushing each other in the back to try to keep from stepping on each other's heels.

Patrick's PR of 3:41 would've walked away with it. Winner came in at 3:47. Just proves that all you have to do is make the finals....then, anything can happen. The 3 US qualifiers were current NCAA Champ from U of Oregon, Centrowitz, current US record holder, Bernanard Lagat, and former Duck, Leo Monzano.