New England Rankings: 2nd Release

It was a big week for athletes from New England as an elevated level of competition at several major invitationals catapulted many to the top of the national rankings. 

Sarah Gillespie of Northwest Catholic (CT) posted the first sub five minute mile performance of the year and was perched atop the national ranking.  Unfortunately, it lasted for just two days.  Her 4:59.06 winning time at the Rhode Island Classic on Wednesday now has her ranked US#2 behind Brianna Nerud of North Shore High School (NY) who posted a 4:58.45 at her home invitational on Friday.

Bethanie Brown of Waterville High School (ME) remains the national leader in the two mile by almost ten seconds.  Her 10:48.95 time from last week was not challenged and she remains one of only two athletes to run under eleven minutes so far this season.

Royal Cheatham of Hope High School (RI) has picked-up right where she left off. The Ocean State's top sprinter won the Rhode Island Classic 55m in 7.21, and now leads the New England rankings by .03 over Molly Gribbin of South Burlington (VT).  Cheatham is also NE#2 in the long jump (18’10.75) behind fellow Rhode Island star Madeline Berkson (Classical High School) at 19’0.25”.

Joe Velez of Classical High School (RI) launched a 76’11.75” bomb to help his team win the Rhode Island Classic Weight Throw Relay.  His mark is US#1 by over seven feet!

Nick Christensen of Peabody High School (MA) posted the fastest time in New England and the second fastest time in the country during his winning performance at the BU Mini Meet #3.  His 4:12.56 is second only to Edward Cheserek’s 4:09.90.

Andre Rolim of Somerville (MA) took over the top spot in the country after winning the 600m at the Boston Holiday Challenge in 1:21.67.  His performance ranked him just ahead of in-state rival Nathan Pierre-Louis of Waltham High School who is currently ranked US#3 at 1:21.88.