11-05-2005

Contact:
Jim Estes
LDR Programs Manager
USA Track & Field
317-261-0500 x315

Mobile, Ala. - Winning by over 30 seconds and running a course record 28:11, Dathan Ritzenhein won his first U.S. road championship at the USA 10 km Championships hosted by the Food World Senior Bowl Charity Run 10 km in Mobile, Ala. on November 5.

Ritzenhein quickly took the lead and was never challenged as he stalked Marc Nenow's U.S. 10 km record of 27:48 through the first 3 miles, but the warm conditions combined with oppressive humidity hampered his record attempt.

"I wanted to give myself a shot at 27:48," said Ritzenhein after winning his first U.S. road title. "I wanted to go out on that pace. I held it for three or four miles, but then I kind of lost it. It was definitely hot and humid. I just wanted to be aggressive. I'm happy to get the course record at least."

Behind Ritzenhein, Matt Gonzales and Brian Sell ran together, taking turns in the lead of the chase pack until Gonzales gradually pulled away at five miles and hung on for second place in 28:39. Sell held on to third in 28:48, with Josh Moen (29:13) fourth and Fernando Cabada (29:16) rounding out the top-five.