Title dreams: UMO's Lafond seeks national championship

By Rudy Coggins
Published in Sports on May 23, 2014 1:48 PM

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rcoggins@newsargus.com

ALLENDALE, Mich. -- Fitness and confidence.

No one has handled either training factor better than Dylan Lafond during his short -- and brilliant -- career at the University of Mount Olive.

The sophomore hopes a strategic plan developed by head coach Matt van Lierop plays in his favor during the 5,000-meter race at the NCAA Division II men's track and field championshps. Lafond also qualified in the 3,000-meter steeplechase, but decided not compete in that event.

"I think it's because we think that's the race I have the best shot at getting a win," said Lafond, a three-time All-American. "Also, I feel like there is better competition in the 5k. If I do win the 5k, it's more of an achievement I guess."

A record-setting achievement, no less.

Lafond would emerge as the first-ever individual national champion in any sport in UMO athletics history. He would become just the second national champion in Conference Carolinas history along with Queens University of Charlotte alum Michael Crouch, who won the national title in 2009 in the 1,500-meter run.

According to NCAA statistics, just five North Carolina schools have produced one or more D-II national champions since 1963 -- Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association powerhouse St. Augustine's and fellow league members Livingstone and Fayetteville State; and UNC Pembroke.

St. Aug's has won 12 national team titles and has had 99 individual champions -- second only to Abilene Christian.

Lafond is confident he can finish among the top eight and earn All-America status for the fourth time in his career. He's also determined to win a race that borders on a relaxed tempo.

Kevin Batt of Adams State (Colo.) University is considered the pre-race favorite.

"Usually championship races are more of a sit and kick ... a paced run," Lafond said. "It's not a race that you go to get a PR (personal record) in. I'm going to make it so that it is a race that I can PR in ... set a good pace and burn the field sooner than later.

"When 1,200 meters comes around, that's when I'm going to take off."

Lafond is aware the plan could backfire. Anyone can get tripped up in the pack during the early portion of the race, even him, as the runners begin to search for some leg room.

The key is to rely on his fitness and confidence.

Since returning to New Hampshire nearly three weeks ago, Lafond and a training partner have ran nearly 80 miles per week. He trimmed it to between 65-70 earlier this week and did a workout Wednesday that involved strengthening his legs.

The race is Saturday.

"I think I'm the fittest I've ever been going into a championship race and I think that's what you need ... confidence in not only yourself, but your fitness," said Lafond, who was recently named the D-II Southeast Region outdoor track athlete-of-the-year.

"I enjoy training, enjoy being the best I can be. Honestly, whatever I finish -- whether I win, get All-American or don't make All-American -- I'm happy to be where I am and thankful God blessed me with the talent to be able to do something like this."