You ain’t seen nuthin yet! Whitlock ticketed for Rotterdam Marathon
Ed Whitlock’s recent speed drills (his indoor world records at Kamloops) are just the appetizer. The main dish comes April 10, when he’s entered in the marathon at Rotterdam — renowned as one of the fastest courses in the world. Of course, nothing is guaranteed when you’re 80 years young. But Ed “The Lock” Whitlock is indeed a favorite to crash the 3:30 barrier. And why not? He’s still legendary for going 2:58:40 at 74. The listed WR for M80 marathon is 3:39:18 by Aussie Robert Horman in 1998. So take our poll and check out my latest quickie Q&A with Ed.
Masterstrack.com: What was your race plan in the Kamloops 3000? Who did you run with? Get pacing help from anyone?
Ed Whitlock: My objective was to run at 12 minute pace. My first lap was slow by 2 to 3 seconds, after that I got on pace but did not make any inroads on the deficit until the last 2 laps when I made up a little. I ran the race on my own, Tim Payne was maybe 30 yards in front of me for most of the race but he slowed over the last 1000 and I made up a bit so I passed him with 3 or 4 laps to go.
What did you cross the 1500 in?
Not sure probably around 6:03
Will you get credit for a 1500 WR?
Not from the 3000, but then I ran the 1500 the following day in 5:48.47
What are your plans for the outdoor season? Going to Sacramento? If so, what events?
I have not committed to Sacramento, but I’m certainly thinking about it.
What other records are you gunning for?
Outdoor distance track records if I recover from the marathon OK.
Were you upset with yourself for missing sub-12 in the 3K?
No, not really; it would have been nice of course.
How is training going?
The training is going OK at the moment, but I will be somewhat short of the desired preparation for Rotterdam even if training goes perfectly between now and then.
Any injuries or life challenges being fought?
Just continuing concerns about my knees which have caused two extended layoffs in my 70s.
What else did you run at Kamloops?
1500m and two relays, 4X200 and 4X400. There were three other 80-year-olds and I volunteered to be a fourth to make up a team.
2 Responses
Studly. Awesome. Inspirational!
Inspirational!
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