The 2007 World Outdoor 10,000m bronze medalist, Goucher made her half marathon debut a memorable one in setting a new American best time of 66 minutes 57 seconds. Her time bettered the previous U.S. record of 67:34 by Deena Kastor set last year in Berlin, but due to the downhill nature of the course, it will not qualify as the American record. Goucher posted splits of 47:36 (15 km), 50:59 (10 miles), and 63:33 (20 km), which are quicker than any U.S. competitor has run before. With her performance, Goucher spoiled the return to competition after a 21-month absence of British world marathon record holder Paula Radcliffe, who was the runner up in 67:53. Now in its sixth year, USATF's Athlete of the Week program is designed to recognize outstanding performers at all levels of the sport. USATF names a new honoree each week and features the athlete on the USATF website. Selections are based on top performances and results from the previous week.
BEST MARKS WEEK ENDING SEPTEMBER 30 WOMEN 100 - 10.97 Sanya Richards (Nike) - Shanghai, CHN 9/28 400 - 50.27 Sanya Richards (Nike) - Yokohama, JPN 9/30 1500 - 4:22.99 Tiffany McWilliams (adidas) - Yokohama, JPN 9/30 100H - 12.65 Michelle Perry (Nike) - Shanghai, CHN 9/28 400H - 55.01 Tiffany Williams (Reebok) - Shanghai, CHN 9/28 |