DALLAS, Texas — WVU Tech was represented on a national stage Sunday morning as three Golden Bears competed in the NAIA Marathon Classic, held in conjunction with the BMW Dallas Marathon.
Sophomore Evan McElwayne, freshman Jan Fasius Ponsa and sophomore Peyton Asbury each earned qualification for the event after completing the NAIA's demanding 12-week training standards, which require sustained high weekly mileage and multiple two-hour long runs.
McElwayne Paces the Golden Bears
McElwayne delivered a strong showing in his first competitive marathon, finishing in 2:53:34 and placing 42nd overall in the elite men's field. He averaged a 6:37 per mile pace across the 26.2-mile course.
The sophomore ran consistently throughout the race, posting early splits near six-minute pace before settling into a steady rhythm through the middle miles. He remained composed late in the race in a deep national field.
Fasius Follows Closely in Marathon Debut
Just seconds behind McElwayne, Fasius crossed the line in 2:53:41 to finish 43rd overall, averaging a 6:38 per mile pace in his collegiate marathon debut.
The freshman showed remarkable consistency, maintaining similar splits throughout the race and continuing to push through the later miles as the course looped around White Rock Lake. His performance capped a successful first season at WVU Tech and demonstrated poise well beyond his collegiate experience.
Asbury Shows Grit in National Debut
Asbury made her marathon debut on the national stage, competing through the early and middle portions of the race while gaining valuable experience at the 26.2 mile distance. The sophomore maintained a steady pace through the opening miles and embraced the challenge with determination and resilience.
Her effort reflected the preparation, commitment and courage required to qualify for the NAIA Marathon Classic and take on one of collegiate running's toughest tests.
About the Event
The NAIA Marathon Classic is unique among collegiate athletic organizations, as the NAIA remains the only governing body to sponsor a marathon event for student-athletes. Approximately 120 collegiate runners from across the country competed in Sunday's race, which serves as the NAIA's unofficial national championship marathon.
This year marked the first time the event was held in Texas, expanding the championship experience by partnering with one of the nation's premier marathon weekends.
WVU Tech's participation highlights the discipline, preparation and mental toughness required to compete at the national level in one of collegiate running's most demanding events.
