THUNDER BAY — Records are made to be broken, but sometimes it takes a while before they’re eclipsed.
Kim Krezonoski has her eyes set on setting a new standard in the women’s competition at this month’s Fire Fighters Ten Mile Road Race, aiming at Erja Ervonen’s 31-year-old top time of 57:16, a record not even approached since 1999, when Duluth’s Katie Koski crossed the finish line in 57:50.
Seven years ago, Krezonoski, whose twin sister Michelle won the race, finished runner-up in a time of 63:11, which puts her outside the top 25 all-time.
Can she get there?
Past history says she’ll be close.
Last October Krezonoski set a personal best, running a 58:03 ten-miler in St. Paul, Minn., just 47 seconds off the Thunder Bay record.
It’ll be fun to watch, said race organizer Herb Daniher.
“It’s their hometown and I think she’d like to make that mark,” Daniher said. “She understands that it’s going to be quite the challenge. Those records have been held by elite runners for a significant number of years, but she seems to be up for the challenge.
“She’s a very positive person to begin with and I have a suspicion if she can’t get there, she’s going to be close.”
No stranger to distance races, Krezonoski, who served as a co-starter with her sister for last year’s race, held annually on Victoria Day, she set a personal best at the Houston Marathon in January, running the course in 2:39:36, good for 13th overall, not bad for a runner who sits at 876th on the world women’s marathon rankings.
It’s also a bit of a family tradition.
Krezonski’s father, Bill, was runner-up in 1989, his 50:59 time just cracking the top 25 all-time finishes. Unfortunately Michelle won’t be able to compete this year because of injury.
Daniher said it just makes sense to give Krezonoski the ceremonial No. 1 bib.
He added he’s expecting about 550 competitors relay team members to take part in the 89th running of the Ten Mile Road Race, though time is ticking down to register, with entries closing on May 11 at 11:59 p.m.
Daniher said one thing they do need is more volunteers, who receive a shirt, training and an invitation for volunteer appreciation party after the race.
“We’re down about 30, so we need people to step up,” Daniher said.
Race Day is May 19 and anyone looking to register or volunteer can do so at www.10mileroadrace.org.
