Not bad for a Soccer player.
That modifier doesn't usually bring much significance in the track sphere. But when much of the field already has the strong aerobic base of Cross Country, it becomes notable when you run a NY #14 All-Time performance in your first few weeks of specific training since last Spring.
That was the story of Lily Flynn (Ursuline), who wrapped up her ticket to the Millrose Mile, after finishing runner-up her attempt before. Taking charge of the race two laps in, Flynn ran to a new personal best, relay split or otherwise, hitting 2:08.15 for the 800m distance. That marks the first time Flynn has ever broken 2:10 for the event, and she's done so on very little speed work.
The Stanford-signee is proving why she's a distance standout in a State filled with XC stars like Katelyn Tuohy and Kelsey Chmiel. Last year, Flynn ran the 6th best ever mark for 1000m at the Indoor State Meet, running 2:45.83 for the win. There, she opened her first 800m in 2:12.03, and closed strong. With her new found 800m speed, she could challenge the Unofficial State Record of 2:40.72 set by Sammy Watson in 2017 (Mary Cain holds the actual State Record, running 2:35.78 while still attending a NY HS.)
For now, Flynn will join Marlee Starliper (Northern, PA) on the line at Millrose, and see what her 800m kick can bring there.
New York has now added their second boy to the coveted Millrose Mile, named in honor of CHSAA's Larry Byrne. Matt Payamps (Saint Anthony's) made sure he'd make his second appearance at the race in as many years with a tight lean at the line. Payamps now joins Shea Weilbaker (Saratoga) who qualified for the race at the Hall of Fame Invite.
Payamps overtook 1000m State Leader Matt Rizzo to book his ticket in 1:54.73. Now a Senior, Payamps was part of a 4x800m squad that swept both Indoor and Outdoor State titles the year before. He placed 8th at Millrose in 2018, and is looking to improve that mark.