Miracle Mile lives up to billing
The Harry Jerome Classic concluded on Thursday with an elite mile that saw four men break 4, among them Nate Brannen and Charles Philibert-Thiboutot. Brannen took the title in 3:57, narrowly escaping fellow Canadian Philibert-Thiboutot. While Brannen was unable to dip under 3:56 and collect the $4000 bonus, his final time was still impressive considering his 3:02 split at 1200m. The top-4 finishers all showed good closing speed, including Chris Derrick, who was running the 1500/mile for the first time in over a year. Colby Alexander was excited to see himself closing well, and was ultimately rewarded with his first sub-4. Here are some observations from the conclusion of FloCanada. Nate Brannen and the Commonwealth Games While it was no miracle to see Nate Brannen winning the Miracle Mile in Vancouver, the 31-year old was still impressive, gathering himself to close in 54-55 seconds, and get past the up and coming Charles P-T. His final time did not warrant the bonus prize he coveted, but the two-time Olympian was pleased with his performance and spoke about the Canadian Selection committee that left him off this month’s Commonwealth Games roster. “I knew the standard. I ran 3:35 in May, and I wasn’t about to chase that (again). Apparently they wanted me to be peaked in May.” Brannen was referring to the brief window that Canada allotted for qualifying times, and his displeasure with them wanting him in top form so early in the season.
Jul 11, 2014
