Today was an ideal day for the running of the 31st annual America’s Finest City (AFC) Half Marathon. Mild temperatures allowed for very fast times amongst the pros and top amateurs. The lead pack would start the race with a very quick 5:10 mile followed by a 5:04. This was all before even reaching the long downhill.

At the bottom of the hill (approx. mile 4) it was number 141 leading the pack with Christian Hesch and Justin Young following close behind. Allen Wagner passed by fourth with a large chase pack right behind. Wagner, after experiencing some difficulties due to a lingering leg injury, would have to drop from the race.

As the race progressed, Justin Young was leading at mile 7 in 34 minutes. The leaders had completed mile 10 in a blazing fast 49 minutes. The leaders’ pace would drop slightly as they ran up hill to the finish. Justin Young crossed the finish line first with a time of 1:05:46 and for the first time since 1987, an American would win. Second and third place went to Joseph Chirlee and Jynocel Basweti respectively. Hiromi Ominami returned to be the first woman across the line for the second year in a row.

The remaining 7,747 participants, with a wide range of ages and abilities, would follow in a steady stream and become a solid river of people. The cooler conditions allowed for a very enjoyable race day for all involved.

Below is a video of Justin Young crossing the finish line. In addition, be sure to check out the Athlete Interviews.