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2009 - 10K NATIONAL RACE WALK
This year’s 10K nationals had an aura of nostalgia for long-time race walkers such as myself. We awoke to a crisp clear cool spring day in Albany NY where the 10K nationals were about to unfold around the reflecting pools of NY State’s capital. Reminiscent of the old National Race Walk Invitational in Washington D.C., the dead flat course winded through ten turns per kilometer. I remember well the toll so many turns can take upon the body and was glad I was the photographer instead of the competitor. The race was organized by Don Lawrence and was extremely well structured. It seems like a Lawrence has been in charge of the 10K Nationals since I have been racing (brother Dave did a great job for years up in Niagara). Unlike many competitions, the men and women start together, given an appearance of added depth to the field that sadly has been lacking in most races.
From the gun a trio of Tim Seaman (two-time Olympian), Allen James (two-time Olympian), and Rich Luettchau hammered to the lead. Setting a blistering pace of 4:21 the three walkers set out hard. Seaman was looking for his 36th National title in route to a goal of surpassing the great Henry Laskau (42 National titles) on the all-time list. James goals were less lofty, but an Olympian is an Olympian and is never one to concede defeat. James pressed early, and pushed Seaman who seemed willing to settle in for the first two kilometers. Seaman was nursing a strained hamstring and had only goal, to win the race.
 Rich Luettchau, Tim Seaman and Allen James early in the race |
 Allen James pressing early |
 Allen James, showing Olympian effort |
.  Seaman is not one to walk behind anyone |
 Our trio walked for almost 2K together |
 John Soucheck, a fan favoriate, on his way to 5th place. |
 Tim Seaman crossing to victory! |
 A confused Allen James, was I #1? |
 Opps I mean #2 |
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America’s premier team of clinicians Jeff Salvage and Tim Seaman’s Race Walk Clinic — in a Book beautifully illustrates textbook techniques while it catalogs typical mistakes race walkers make that can rob them of a legal race and speed. It explains why these problems exist and prescribes critical solutions to correct them. If you are ready to improve your race walking style and step up to the next level, then pick up Race Walk Clinic - in a Book today. |
More results:
1) Tim Seaman, 42:56
2) Allen James, 45:36
3) Richard Luettchau, 46:34
4) Theron Kissinger, 50:17
5) John Soucheck, 52:02
6) Dave Talcott, 52:17
7) Dan O'Brien, 54:29
8) Dan Serianni, 54:44
9) Robert Keating, 55:34
10) Radael Marin, 55:53
