Michigan Signs Pair of Standout Milers in Early Period
11/15/2000 12:00:00 AM | Men's Track & Field
Webb is one of top high school track and field long distance runners in the nation. A two-time state champion in the mile, Webb had the third fastest time in the event in the nation last year, posting a time of 4:03.33. He also broke the course record for 5,000 meters in winning the Virginia state cross country title this season, with a time of 15:03. At the Penn Relays, Webb was the anchor leg on the distance medley, and ran a 48.6 leg on the 1,600-meter relay. He owns personal bests of 8:57.1 in the two-mile run and 1:50.63 in the 800 meters.
"It's been 32 years since a high schooler broke the four-minute mile, and Alan has a great chance to do that this year," said head coach Ron Warhurst. "That's indicated by his anchor leg at the Penn Relays, where he ran a 3:59.8. He will have an immediate impact on our team in both cross country and track."
Brannen, who came in fourth place at the Canadian Olympic Trials in the 1,500 meters, was Warhurst's second commitment. Brannen also won the Canadian junior championships in cross country this year, and he has run a 3:45.09 in the 1,500 meters, which equals a 4:02 mile. His other personal bests include 8:25.42 in the 3,000 meters and a time of 1:50.35 in the 800 meters.
"Another opportunity for an incoming freshman to break the four-minute barrier in the mile is very realistic for Nathan," Warhurst said. "It would be quite an accomplishment for two guys to break the four-minute mile as incoming freshmen, and the potential is there. These guys will give us added depth in cross country, and with adjustments, will make us a very promising team next fall."
Contact: Steve Grialou (734) 764-6108
