Carlson Opens 2008 with NYC Victory

What were you up to at midnight on New Year's Eve?

Team USA Minnesota's Andrew Carlson was ringing in 2008 on a high note at the Emerald Nuts Midnight Run in New York City early New Year's Day. Carlson won the 4-mile Central Park race in 18:12, which bettered the course record of 18:28 set in 2004. Runner-up Macharia Yuot crossed the finish line in 18:33. The event starts at midnight and marks the start of the New Year.

"I felt really good through 2 miles and at that point there were still guys around me," Carlson said in a Team USA Minnesota media release. "The third mile was all up hill so I knew that was going to be my spot to go. It was a surprisingly good field and I didn't want to have it come down to a kick at the end. The strength part is where I excel and I knew that was going to be my best chance to win."

Carlson said he wasn't bothered by cool temperatures of around 40 degrees.

"I did my last long run in Fargo on December 23 in negative 15 windchill, so last night seemed like it was hot out. This was my first time in New York City at the Midnight Run and I really enjoyed it. I am trying to do things a little differently this year and everything I do is geared toward Eugene and the Trials. Last night was a good night so I am on my way."

Next up for Carlson will be the Bermuda 10k on January 19.