Tim Young finished more than three minutes ahead of the second-place finisher.

Date published: 5/18/2008

Cowan Boulevard is a convenient shortcut to Central Park for most Fredericksburg residents.

Cowan also was the place Tim Young of Fredericksburg took charge in today's Marine Corps Historic Half race.

The rising senior at James Madison University and former track star at James Monroe High School was pushed by Adam Condit of Centreville at the beginning of the 13.1 mile race, then moved ahead to stay after crossing the I-95 overpass.

By the time Young reached the cheering crowd in front of Hugh Mercer Elementary School, his lead had expanded to roughly 60 yards.

Despite a nasty spill leaving the canal trail onto U.S. 1, Young completed the race in one hour, eight minutes and 51 seconds - a 3 1/2 minute advantage over the second-place finisher.

Mary Kate Bailey of Arlington was the top female finisher in 1:21.07. The winner of the 2004 Marine Corps Marathon only began training for the event after giving birth to her second daughter 11 weeks ago.

The inaugural event attracted roughly 5,800 runners. Registration for the 2009 race will begin on Jan. 7.

- Kurt Nicoll, The Free Lance-Star

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Date published: 5/18/2008