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Former Canfield runners go the distance
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Neighbors | Submitted.In the beginning stages of the Sept. 18 Rochester Marathon, Marek Slipski (left) and Luke Slipski stayed side-by-side at a comfortable pace. By the end of the race, Marek Slipski earned a 3 hour, 6 minute finish, while Luke Slipski earned a 3 hour, 13 minute finish.
By SARAH FOOR
As they competed in the Rochester (N.Y.) Marathon on Sept. 18, Canfield graduates Luke and Marek Slipski wore their Canfield cross country team jerseys in a show of hometown pride.
Their cross country training served them well during the race, as Marek and Luke finished the marathon fifth and sixth, respectively in their age group and 25th and 35th overall, with times of 3 hours, 6 minutes and 3 hours, 13 minutes.
“Our experiences in cross country gave us a great basis for training,” shared Marek. “However, for the marathon, my brother and I definitely put in more miles in training and prepared for running the distance.”
The brothers trained all summer and run together often, but they cannot deny that they maintain a friendly sibling rivalry.
“In our last marathon, Luke bested my time. During this run, I managed to lead him by six minutes. We’re always pushing each other to do better and it’s all in good fun,” explained Marek.
When they’re not running, Marek, a 2007 Canfield graduate, and Luke, a 2009 graduate, both attend college at the University of Rochester. Marek recently earned his degree in Physics and Astronomy, while Luke is enjoying his junior year as a Health, Behavior and Society major.
The brothers’ impressive finish has made them eligible to compete in the prestigious Boston Marathon.
“We’ll be training hard and hopefully be participating in the Boston Marathon by 2013,” shared Marek.