Watch: The full 3K race above
Few people in the West Chester Henderson Track and Field complex knew that they were about to witness history. But as the gun went off and Sophia Rodriguez (Dallastown) rocketed off the line - the prospect of history became real.
Last summer, Virginia Kraus ran 10:08 at the AUU Junior Olympic Games to set the Middle School State All-Time Best (unofficial). She has gone on to start her high school career with a bang and most recently finished sixth at the PTFCA Indoor State Championship.
But when Rodriguez made her first lap, it was apparent that Kraus' time would only stand for a bit longer.
She split 5:11 through the opening mile and was on her way to a new unofficial state record. By the end of her seven-and-a-half lap waltz, she obliterated the old standard, running 9:43.08 to rewrite the books yet again.
In truth - it is nationally one of the fastest times in eighth-grade history. And though no official records are kept for Middle School marks, we acknowledge it as one of the Top-10 times of all time.
Rodriguez discusses her race and training above
Astonishingly, this race wasn't Rodriguez's focus. It was just a stair in her journey to the national circuit next week. She'll compete in the mile and 2 Mile at Nike Nationals - competing with some of the best girls in the Northeast. While no one expects her to run in there and win the whole thing - in the back of our heads, we wouldn't be surprised if she pulls it off.
But that's a story for next week. This week - we'll bask in her success on the outdoor track.