One of the many must watch match-ups of the 108th NYRR Millrose Games on Saturday, February 14 at the Armory’s New Balance Track and Field Center will be the 1000 meter race between American middle-distance stand-outs Duane Solomon, Erik Sowinski and Robby Andrews.
Since running the second fastest 800 meter time ever by an American to take fourth at the 2012 Olympic Games, Solomon has become one of the biggest names in the middle-distance world.
“The 1000 is really new to me, but at the same time I’m ready for it,” said Solomon. “I want people to know that I have a lot of weapons in my arsenal.”
Sowinski rose among the middle-distance ranks after breaking the 600 meter American record at the 2013 Millrose Games. Solomon, who Sowinski overtook during that race’s final turn, was the record’s previous owner.
Though there is a bit of a rivalry between Solomon and Sowinski, the two teamed up last year to help break the 4x800 meter world record at the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix. Andrews was also a competitor in that race and led his team to a second-place finish that was also under the previous world record.
Of the three, Andrews has the most history with The Armory. The New Jersey native’s name can be found on The Armory’s record wall under the high school 800 and 1000 meter records as well as the collegiate 800 meter record. He also took second in the 2008 Millrose Games High School Mile.
“The Armory is where I got my start,” said Andrews. “I definitely have a soft spot for The Armory and definitely want to run well every time I step on that track.”
Declan Murray – who helped his Irish team secure a national record in the distance medley relay at January’s Armory Track Invitational – will also be a major player in the Games’ 1000 meters. Murray’s team finished just behind Team USA, which was led by Sowinski to a world record.
But no one should discount 2012 Olympic 1500m bronze medalist Adelaati Iguider from Morocco who will have his sights on the big win in New York.
Pierre-Ambroise Bosse set the Millrose Games’ 1000m record at 2:17.63 during the 107th NYRR Millrose Games. Solomon, Sowinski and Andrews each have reported they’re in good enough shape to run under that mark, which is not too far off the American record of 2:16.76.
The NYRR Millrose Games, part of the USATF Championship Series, is scheduled to be televised live nationally by NBC Sports Network (NBCSN) from 6-8 p.m. USATF.tv will carry live as well.
