Gabriele Anderson Interviewed on NYRR On the Run Podcast and Video

The NYRR debuts its weekly video program On The Run.  Team USA Minnesota's Gabriele Anderson is featured on the radio podcast HERE.  She is also featured (4 minutes, 20 seconds) into the inaugural video HERE.

Reneau Looking for Next Level in Chicago

Former Minnesota resident Mike Reneau is at the Bank of America Chicago this weekend (as is your editor) with hopes of reaching a new level in the marathon and, along the way, earning a spot on the USA's 2009 IAAF World Championships team.

Two spots for the Berlin event were earned at the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon last weekend -- by Fernando Cabada and Team USA Minnesota's Matt Gabrielson -- while the remaining three will be awarded based on time. Reneau is targeting a 2:14-2:15 marathon here on Sunday, if the weather cooperates. Warmer-than-normal weather is forecast.

"I felt like I needed to get on a little bit faster course, because, obviously, after those first two spots they go to the time list," Reneau said. "I think a high-2:14, low-2:15 is a possibility for one of those final three slots on the World team. I also just wanted an opportunity to run on a fast course -- I think that's why most people come to Chicago."

Reneau, who sports a 2:17:46 PR, has focused on Chicago since his 3rd place finish at the Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon in June. The former Twin Cities-based road-racer, who is now a member of the Michigan-based Hanson's-Brooks Olympic Development Program, spent the spring of 2008 focused on half marathon training. Earlier in the spring, Reneau notched a 1:04:30 at Shamrock Half Marathon in Virginia Beach.

Reneau may face a solo challenge on Sunday. The pace he plans to run will put him well behind the race leaders, who are targeting 1:02:45 for their half marathon split.

"It's unlikely that I'll be running with anyone else, except for some Kenyans falling off from 2:06, 2:07 pace," Reneau said. "I expect it to be about a 26-mile time trial.

Audio ... Listen to my full conversation with Mike Reneau below ...

Fernando Cabada in His Own Words

2008 USA Marathon Champion Fernando Cabada spoke honestly and emotionally to the media yesterday after his victory at the Medtronic Twin Cities Marathon.

Listen to Cabada in his own words here ...