Above: Race Video from the Mingo Scrimmage
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It looked like a stroll in the park.
Ryan Pajak (Ringgold) knows his home course better than anyone, and he proved that on Wednesday by dominating the competition at the Mingo Scrimmage and running an outrageous 15-flat 5k in his season opener.
If you've ever been to Mingo Creek Park, you know of its hilly terrain. That made no difference for Pajak, who made the course look like a Pancake. He remained conservative through the opening half-mile incline before letting loose and building a lead into the downhill back section.
He then worked his way back uphill and had a commanding lead by the time we saw him next. A glance at the clock showed 14:00 with around 400 meters remaining, and Pajak floored the pedal, posting a 15:00.80 and a 190 Speed Rating (courtesy of TullyRunners).
The mark also currently stands as a US No. 3.
Jack Bertram also ran well for North Allegheny. Bertram ran a 15:34.76 and posted a 178 speed rating. He is coming off a 2022 season that saw him finish third at the PIAA 3A State Championship.
Of note, Montour's Julian Kletz ran exceptionally well. He posted a near 40-second personal best and established his presence in the WPIAL. He ran 15:47.56 for third.
North Allegheny took the team competition by force and scored just 32 points.
RELATED: Full Results and More from the Mingo Scrimmage
