HossierFan wrote:
Sorry, but you don't have a clue. The stated goal was for Puskedra to work toward the team goal, by "drafting" the pack of Oregon runners, with a goal of keeping the 1-5 spread within 30 seconds. By the way they were three seconds from achieving this goal. At the mid-way point, he had them only six seconds behind him. Later, when the pack was dropping off a bit, Puskedra tempered his pace appropriately allowing the pack to stay together and still use him to key off of. Hmmmmm, Danny Mercado finished at #31 (right behind Klotz #29, Centrowitz #27). Based on his ability to deliver for the team, I'd say, Puskedra has grown into the leader that Oregon needed, and will now have for two more years. Rather than come here to criticize, get educated on XC running strategy first--Vin can give you a few classes.
you my friend, are none too bright
number 1, I want you to go run for 8 seconds at 4:50 pace (lukes lead over centro at 5k), then look back at where you started and tell me if you still think it is possible to "draft from there"
2nd, that 8 second lead grew to 17 seconds (you can try the same exercise again if need be) at 8k...never once did luke slow down again to "keep the pack" together, he died and the rest of the team died more
lukes a great runner, vins a good coach and will get him back, and his guys did peak at the right time this season, but luke went backwards thats all there is to it