By David Rogers. NEW YORK CITY — Morgan Beadlescomb (13:44) and Annie Rodenfels won their first national titles in the men’s and women’s divisions, respectively, of the USATF 5k Road Racing Championship on Nov. 4 in Manhattan’s Central Park, but Blowing Rock-based ZAP Endurance was well represented among the leaders. Beadlescomb was representing adidas, the shoe and apparel company.
In the Elite Men’s Division, ZAP middle distance specialist Dan Schaffer finished No. 4, just three seconds behind Beadlescomb in 13:47. To understand just how close it was at the finish, No. 2 Ahmed Muhamed (HOKA Northern Arizona Elite), No. 3 Tai Dinger (unattached) and Schaffer were all credited with the same time of 13:47. Close behind at No. 5 was Brian Barraza (Roots Running) in 13:48 and a second later, No. 6 Woody Kincaid (NIKE) in 13:49.
Of the 26 elite runners entered in the race, held in conjunction with the Abbott Dash to the Finish Line 5K, 14 men finished the 5km course under 14 minutes (within 17 seconds of the winner). While Beadlescomb took home $12,000 for the win, Schaffer netted $2,000 for the fourth place finish.
In the Elite Women’s Division, ZAP Endurance newcomer Amanda Vestri finished No. 7, approximately 16 seconds behind Rodenfels, representing the Boston Athletic Association (15:22).
Also among the leaders were Rachel Smith (Hoka One One), Bethany Hasz (Boston Athletic Association), Keira D’Amato (NIKE), Weini Kelati (UA Dark Sky Distance), and Katie Camerana (unattached), all ahead of Vestri.
A few places behind Vestri was another High Country athlete, Abbey Cooper, at No. 12, representing New Balance. A total of 23 elite female athletes qualified for and competed in the women’s race.
Rodenfels took home the $12,000 money for first place, Vestri came away with $750 for finishing No. 7.
“Overall, it was a good day for ZAP Endurance to place two of our team members among the leaders of a national championship race,” said Pete Rea, head coach of ZAP Endurance.
