Local runner wins national title

Runner Tomas Rodriguez now has a National Title under his running belt. (Photo courtesy Rodriguez)

By Donald Qualls

Local resident, Tomas Rodriguez, who splits his time between Mammoth Lakes and Laguna Beach, Calif., has won the National Masters half marathon championship, held in Melbourne, Fla., on Feb. 6. Rodriguez took the National Title for the age group of 55-59 years of age with a time of 1:24:08 for the 13.2 mile course.

Rodriguez came out of retirement two and a half years ago, after a 30 year hiatus from distance running. Although very successful during his college running days, a National Title eluded him. Until Rodriguez hit the comeback trail, his highest NCAA finish was 11th. With the recent help of local professional training coach, Andrew Kastor, Rodriguez finally reached his goal.

During his time with Kastor, Rodriguez won every major marathon he entered in the last two and a half years, culminating in his National Title.

Rodriguez is known for his interest in Mammoth’s local cross country and track teams. He was a volunteer assistant coach for the Mammoth High School cross country teams and donated nearly $10,000 to the Mammoth High School cross country team, as well as other teams.

Rodriquez has also set up a scholarship that helps high school cross country runners receive funds to help with college expenses.  Qualified students can apply for the “No Runners Left Behind” Scholarship by e-mailing tomasrdrgz@verizon.net or call directly at 310.629.7263.