Top 12 Storylines To Watch At New Balance Nationals Indoor 2016

Storyline #12: Garek vs. the Northeast, Boys 2 Mile


Defending champion Drew Hunter isn't entered here -- but the National High School Record holder's absence provides for more drama, as there is no clear favorite in a field of athletes with similar personal records.

Garek Bielaczyc of East High School in Utah stands out, and not entirely because he's the sole non-Northeasterner. The University of Texas commit placed fourth at Foot Locker Nationals in the fall, took down NXN champion Casey Clinger at the Simplot Games and clocked U.S. No. 3 8:57.03 over 3200m.

Athletes who will run right with Bielacyc include Thomas Ratcliffe (US #1, 8:57.47 2 Mile), Aidan Tooker (US #1 8:54.22 3200m), Conor Lundy (US #2 8:22.06 3K), David Principe (US #2, 8:59.05 2 Miles), Matthew Bouthillette (US #4 9:05.48 2 Miles), Jack Salisbury (US #5 9:06.58 2 Miles) and Gannon Willcutts (US #5, 9:05.49 3200m).

Based on those stats, we wouldn't be surprised to see another finish as close as last year:


BOYS TWO MILE RUN FINALS
PLACEATHLETETEAMRESULTWINDH#
1Andrew Hunter11Loudoun Valley8:48.222
2Levi Thomet12Kodiak High School8:48.322
3Alex Ostberg12Darien High School8:48.882


Boys 2 Mile Championship Field
New Balance Nationals Indoor 2016 meet page