30:04.43 Betters Old Record of 30.18
Photo: Paul Aufdemberge, pictured at the 2004 Columbus Marathon

Running for the Front Line Racing Team in the 10,000 meter race at the Hillsdale Gina Relays on April 29, Paul Aufdemberge set a pending new masters record. First reported by "Relay" Fred Vanhala, USA Track and Field confirmed the pending record on May 2,

"In his first track 10,000 since turning 40, Michigan's Paul Aufdemberge ran a pending U.S. Masters record of 30:04.43, finishing tenth in the invitational 10,000 at the Hillsdale "GINA" Relays. Aufdemberge was also named Male Track Athlete of the meet for his performance."

Aufdemberge, an alumnus of Hillsdale College, chose his college track for his masters debut. Aufdemberge is a three-time Michigan Runner of the Year (1996, 1999, 2000), competed in the USA Olympic Team Trials, Mens Marathon in 2004, and finished second overall at the 2004 Columbus Marathon.

Fred Vanhala reports the race: "It was a perfect evening for running. Paul went out in 14:49 for the 5K (setting a new outdoor team record with another 5K to go!) and came back with a 15:15 2nd 5K.

"We all know that Paul is God's gift to Michigan running. What's great about Paul is he is a better man than he is a runner-- just as humble a guy as you'd ever want to meet. I know I could learn a few things from him."