Paris-Bound Conner Mantz Drops Training Partner Clayton Young’s Hands in Upcoming Marathon

Eyeing the Paris Olympics 2024, the US middle-distance runner of measure, Conner Mantz has already booked an Olympic seat. Following the US Olympic Marathon Trials pole position finish, Conner walked the victory lap with Clayton Young, who trailed behind by one-hundredth of a second. Though their long-standing rivalry has surfaced often, the comradeship can’t be overlooked.

Rising from fifth to first at the US Olympic Trials was a journey to laud. But the former Birmingham Young University collegiate, who unfurled victory at back-to-back NCAA championships, has a piece of news to leave the world concerned.

Conner Mantz sits out of the upcoming half-marathon feat

Resorting to his Instagram handle, the 27-year-old posted the news of his absence from the United Airlines NYC-hosted event over the weekend. His comment reads, “Good luck to everyone competing at the United Airlines NYC half marathon this weekend. After a minor setback, I have decided to sit this one out. I’m grateful for the support of @nyrr in this process. It’s unfortunate I have to withdraw, but I need to do what is best in preparation for the Olympic Games”. True athleticism bore fruits when Mantz extended heartfelt wishes to the participants, despite ruling himself out. Since Paris will be his first Olympic destination, it holds paramount importance.

So, the 2020 and 2021 NCAA Division I Cross Country Champion mindfully took some time off track to focus on the bigger picture. Especially from his stride at the US Olympic Marathon Trials, the fire within became apparent. Speaking about this, his last performance demands a revisit, where he and Young delivered a photo finish.

Young and Mantz finishing 1-2

In a dramatic turn of events, the leader of the pack got edged out by Clayton Young and Conner Mantz. Zach Panning, 28, started the race strong and was toe-to-toe with the Juno’s swans. But at the 22-mile mark, he faded to sixth, when Mantz and Young secured the first (2:09:05) and second (2:09:06) positions, respectively. In October, at the Chicago Marathon, the two men ran faster than the Olympic standard mark, only to cement their names in the final roster.

“I’m going to compete to win — but I also understand that if it doesn’t happen I need to keep things in perspective. It’s a lot of pressure, but also an exciting time. You never know what’s going to happen”, said Mantz. Sporting this attitude throughout the season, will Mantz give the Olympic victory to Young or skip to compromise?

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