by By Dan Ninham
The Rock ‘N’ Roll Half Marathon in San Jose, California on October 6, 2019 is billed as the fastest half marathon in California.
“The race route has numerous turns and no gigantic inclines or declines,” said Craig Curley (Navajo), one of the fastest native distance runners in the world. “A good course to run a good time.”
“The entry list for the runners hasn’t been released yet, but the winning time for the Men’s half marathon has been in the 63 minute mark in past years,” added Curley. “I plan to run 63 minutes and win.”
The race route is scenic and the environment is festive with live bands and spirited cheer squads along the course. The course also has very low elevation from 50 to 120 feet above sea level which means potentially fast times. High elevation runners like Curley are primed to get a fast time and high finish.
Craig Curley was raised near Kinlichee, Arizona on the Navajo Reservation and on the land his grandparents lived ranching sheep and cattle. Tucson has been his new home for the past few years.
“Rock ‘N’ Roll San Jose is an opportunity to run with people at my pace and continue building fitness. The last time I raced here was in 2014 when I ran 64 minutes for third place overall. Improving my time this weekend will be part of the fun,” added Curley.
Curley’s training regimen has evolved to include swimming. “I’m swimming at least a mile a day in the pool six days a week along with running”, added Curley. “I competed in local aquathons over the summer and won the Overall Series. Mostly, the aquathons have been a great way to manage training when temperatures exceed 90°.”
Traditional core values drive Craig Curley to strive forward. “Keep promises when I make them and live in harmony,” said Curley. “Establish balance in the world and be a good son, brother and citizen.”
The Rock ‘N’ Roll Half Marathon is a stepping-stone for the ultimate prize. “Everyone in my life has influenced me to run for the better. The good, the bad are details in making me who I am. I don’t feel anything, but thankful to be running at a high level for this long. My closest friends and my family all believe in me that I will make the Olympic Marathon Team in 2020,” added Curley.
“My first marathon was the Olympic Trials in 2012,” said Curley. “I competed in the 2016 Olympic Trials being ill. After nine marathons I have a feel for the big stage and 2020 is my opportunity to pop a big one. The lesson I learned is running doesn’t belong to me. I’m the caretaker. It’ll make more sense as my journey in life continues.”
Photo is provided by Craig Curley.
Click on the weekend race website: https://www.runrocknroll.com/en/Events/San-Jose/The-Races/Half-Marathon
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