Natasha Wodak sets BC Half Marathon Record

Natasha Wodak surprised herself by slicing 1:44 off her half marathon best at the Rock 'n' Roll Arizona Half Marathon on Sunday, and in doing so set a new BC record of 1:12:23. She was pulled to the record by race winner Amy Hastings of the US, who finished 19 seconds ahead. Wodak's time improved the previous BC record of 1:12:47 set by Tina Connelly in 2004.

Wodak's training partners in the BC Endurance Project had mixed fortunes. At the same race in Phoenix, Dylan Wykes placed third in 1:05:29 on his return from injury. Wykes previously won the race in 2012 in 1:02:38.

Meanwhile, Catherine Watkins made her marathon debut in Houston, aiming for a PanAm Games qualifying time of 2:40:00. After starting well, she suffered intestinal problems before half way, but persevered to finish top master in 2:44:59.