Runner's & Triathlete's Web (RRW) Athletics: Kastor And Carlson Win U.S. 15-K Titles

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In conditions so windy that water was blowing onto the course between the 5 km and 6 km marks, Andrew Carlson and Deena Kastor captured the U.S. 15-K road running titles this morning in Jacksonville, Fla., at the 31st Gate River Run.

Carlson was the big winner as he and three other men were able to catch Kastor who, along with the other elite women, were given a five minute headstart. Carlson won not only the $12,000 first place prize but an additional $5,000 bonus for winning the gender battle. He crossed the finish line about 25 seconds ahead of Kastor. It was Carlson's first U.S. title at any distance on any surface, and he waited for Kastor at the finish line and congratulated her with a hug.

Kastor, the overwhelming favorite in the women's race, notched her sixth U.S. 15-K title. Until the men caught her, she has run the entire race alone, battling the winds. She was running hard, unofficially passing 10-K in 32:44.

Official winning times are not yet available.

NOTE: You can see a short video of the finish at: RunnerSoace.com --Ed.