4. The American Fork boys executed on a preseason goal, breaking the national record in the 4x1600m relay at Arcadia
Athletes will rarely talk about pressure in big races or events. Mostly, it doesn't make sense to wonder.
But it would be unreal to think some of those feelings don't exist, especially for teams or athletes shooting for performances they may never have a chance in again.
Case in point: The American Fork boys 4x1600m relay team.
Their chance to break a national record in the relay came down to one race and doing so at one event: Arcadia.
Beyond this weekend, the team likely won't run the race again -- honestly, it doesn't make much sense.
Fortunately enough, everyone did their part, beating last year's mark held by Temecula Great Oak (Ca.) in 16:52.95.
American Fork went 11 seconds faster, winning in 16:41.30.
Sophomore Carson Clinger ran a first mile clip of 4:26, Patrick Parker went 4:08 on the second mile, McKay Johns went 4:05 in the third and Casey Clinger took it home in 4:02.
Each runner held an equal part in that record. And even if they didn't have to say it, you knew they felt at least some of those expectations.
And now they're better for it.
Photos by USA Today's Kirby Lee
