Arkansas Razorback soon-to-be senior Dorian Ulrey clocked the "A" standard for the 2009 IAAF World Championships at the Golden Gala, in Rome, on Friday.
Ulrey, the only American in the race, tucked in behind a deep field of professionals in hopes of securing the World Championships "A" standard of 3:36.20. As he crossed the line in a respectable 12th place, Ulrey clocked a time of 3:35.23.
His bronze finish at the USA Championships and his newly acquired "A" standard secures his spot on Team USA for the 2009 IAAF World Championships, in Berlin, Aug. 15-23.
"Not bad for my first trip like this," Ulrey said. "I wasn't used to competing after the extended travel and the trip over took a little bit out of me. I wasn't feeling 100 percent. I just tried to keep my pace and stay in the race. I think there is more in the tank."
Ulrey, the only American in the race, tucked in behind a deep field of professionals in hopes of securing the World Championships "A" standard of 3:36.20. As he crossed the line in a respectable 12th place, Ulrey clocked a time of 3:35.23.
"Wow, what a race," head coach Chris Bucknam said. "Dorian followed the plan so well and it worked out for him in the end. He just needed to tuck in behind those guys and get a fast time. A spot on Team USA and the collegiate record is a huge accomplishment. His superb season isn't over yet and we are thrilled for him. He ran smart and didn't try to do anything crazy. That's a great personal best."
His time replaces the previous collegiate best of 3:35.30 set by Sydney Maree of Villanova (May 30, 1981). He clocked a personal best, replacing his previous of 3:39.93, and now holds the second-fastest time in school history. Former Razorback Seneca Lassiter still holds the Arkansas record at 3:33.27 but because that mark was set outside of the collegiate season it does not count as the collegiate record.
For more information about Arkansas Razorback men's track and field, visit ArkansasRazorbacks.com.
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