The Affolder brothers continue to make an impact on the New York running scene, one year since they moved to upstate New York. Noah Affolder may have made headlines in XC, as well as some of his exploits on the track, but now little brother Sam has something Noah does not: a National Record.
At the Westhill Steeplefest, the Affolders both debuted in the event ahead of their attendance at the Loucks Games. Noah won the race in a new NY #1 of 9:16.5h, moving up to challenge top returner Aidan Tooker later in the season. But of even greater note was Sam Affolder, who finished in 9:38.0h.
Not only does that mark take down the New York State Freshman Record, it grabs the Freshman National Record as well. The former record was hand-timed as well, staying on the books from way back in 1983. The record was previously held by Lyle Smith of Bernards, NJ, set at 9:38.9h. This would be Sam's first State Record, after momentarily holding the 8th grade state record in the 800m last year, before losing it to Noah Tindale.
Not bad to have some bragging rights around the dinner table.