The Providence Day senior began his ascent to national recognition on this weekend a year ago, and can bring that process to competion on Saturday.
At this time last year, nobody (except maybe his coach) knew just how far Ben Huffman had progressed as a runner. Sure, he had won the NCISAA 3A state title, but his major competitor had suffered an injury-plagued season and Ben was never really challenged in that race. His time of 15:21 at WakeMed, which he had run in September and then had not improved upon, was among the state's best, but not really of national importance. Then came the Nike Cross Nationals Southeast Regional, and though the time remained the same, Huffman finished among the top 5 individuals in the race and advanced to the national race in Oregon. It was a huge breakthrough for him, and established his case as the top returner in the state.
This year, Ben has a top time of 14:59 at WakeMed, good enough to win the Race of Champions at Great American, and has been in the Saucony Elite 50 rankings or on the watch list most of the season. He followed up a repeat state title with an 8:58 for 3200 in the Dash for Doobie. Huffman will run at Foot Locker South, attempting to join the relatively short list of elite runners that have gotten to experience both national championship events for our sport. This time, he is far from off the radar, and it won't be surprising to anyone if he books a trip to San Diego. Through it all, Ben remains humble and approachable, one of the most enjoyable to talk with among all the athletes that I've had the privilege to interview.
Ben Huffman's Athlete Profile