Check out this swift 1600m that featured four runners 4:16 or faster
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FULL MEET CONTENT
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In lieu of the regular Thursday meet preview, there was a fabulous 1600m run that featured some of the state's most prominent names during the 2014 track and field season. Let's take a trip down memory lane! (Colin Boyle photo)
Original meet transcript:
The formidable Zach Dale (Jr., Hoffman Estates Conant) came to Prospect on a mission. As one of the top distance runners in the state and premier stallion in the mighty Mid-Suburban League, he knows plenty about competing against some of his league rivals. Dale was initially scheduled to run the 3200m, but after consulting with his coaches, they decided it was best for him to put down a great mark in the 1600m. "I discussed with my coach about the [1600] because I went to Arcadia [Invitational in California] for the fast two-mile," Dale said regarding his change. "I really needed a mile PR- I haven't broken 4:20 since last year. I think this is the best choice for that."
The at-large entrant, Dale, made the most of his opportunity in the 1600m. The pace of the race went out fast and honest in 61.4. Dale controlled matters through the following circuit in 2:06. The chasers consisted of Alex Bashqawi (Sr., York), Chris Korabik (Sr., St. Ignatius), and David Schmieg (Sr., Chicago Lane).
All four runners rotated the track within an arm's length of one another until the bell at 3:09. Dale put his foot on the accelerator and cruised home in a state leading 4:12.09 for 1600m (Danville's Johnny Leverenz ran 4:12 for the full mile).
Bashqawi, who is fresh and well from the illness that wrecked his cross-country post-season, posted a personal best 4:13.61. Korabik earned a personal record by holding on to the third position in 4:14.24. Schmieg also recorded a lifetime best of 4:16.24.