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Payne Train is DOY...

Monday, 03 November 2014 00:10

(YndeCam Photo - Dani and Diane leading the way at Du Nationals.)

Minnesota Multisport Awards - Never in the history of the MMAs has there been so many viable DUATHLETE OF THE YEAR candidates. Limiting the number of nominees to just four meant that several very successful run-bike-runners did not make the cut.

Like who, you ask?

Like 2013 US DOY Jenn Scudiero (three wins in seven du starts), 2009 US DOY Kevin O'Connor (four starts including a podium at Sprint Nationals), Bennett Isabella (six du starts, four Top 5s, podium at Sprint Nationals), Brian Sames (five starts, three podiums including one win), Jas Carlson (five starts, two runner-up finishes), Joe Johnson (seven starts, three podiums, including ...

a win at Falls) and Mario Minelli (three starts, two wins and a 2nd). (ALSO: Brooks Grossinger had two stellar du performances; a third would likely have landed him a nomination.)

Here, in alpha order, are the official nominees and the explanation for why they did, or did not, win the award:

DANI FISCHER - With her wins at Apple and the Badger State Games and her 2nd at Du Nationals (a result of a "passing" penalty), the statuesque former Rochesterarian will probably win the women's USAT DOY. Because the Minnesota DOY is a coed category, however, Dani finished 2nd here.

DIANE HANKEE - Diane set a CR at Falls, just missed another in a victorious effort at Oakdale and place 2nd at USAT Long Course Du Nationals. She was also 2nd (Behind Fischer) at Apple and was 4th overall woman at Du Nationals. Hankee should earn a USAT DOY HM.

NATE HOFFMAN - The former collegiate runner won Sprint Nationals and Fall Classic. He was 2nd amateur at Oakdale. His times throughout were very impressive.

MATTHEW PAYNE - Matt (photo R) was named MN DOY and will probably be named USAT DOY, too. His resume features a win at Duathlon Nationals and amateur titles at Oakdale (CR-1:00:54) and Gear West. At Oakdale, he managed to beat two-time US Elite DOY, Dan Hedgecock.