By Kyle Merber
May 4, 2022
If Gary Martin has a million fans, then I am one of them. If Gary Martin has a hundred fans, then I am one of them. If Gary Martin has only one fan then that is me. And if Gary Martin has no fans, then I am no longer on Earth. If the world is against Gary Martin, then I am against the world.
In a world full of high school sub-four milers, a weekend highlight was seeing Pennsylvania’s own chase the mark all by his lonesome on a windy day at Franklin Field. Although his series of 60-second quarters came up short, there was a soul-cleansing level of purity in witnessing Gary’s honest attempt. Without rabbits or pros to draft off, he gritted his way to a theatrical near miss. After the race, he even said a quote from Steve Prefontaine inspired him to give the crowd a performance they were owed.
Gary then rushed off to make it back in time for his senior prom, before returning on Saturday to run the 4×400. Hell, he probably would have a leg for On’s 4xmile team had they only asked!
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Kyle Merber
Kyle Merber is a former professional miler turned media multi-hyphenate. While he’s not above dropping a quick “back in my day,” he’s far more focused on the present. Since 2021, he has brought his signature analysis and commentary to track fans across the CITIUS MAG network. When he’s not writing The Lap Count or hopping on podcasts, Kyle manages partnerships and pitches a relentless stream of ideas for Chris to consider. He might not be running a 3:52 mile anymore, but he keeps himself in just good enough shape to ensure the athletes still respect him.