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IOWA CITY, Iowa — University of Iowa distance runner Nathan Mylenek walked onto the Hawkeyes’ track & field team in 2016. He now has earned a scholarship and holds the cross country school record in the 10,000 meters (29:53.15) and distance medley relay (9:33.90).
Mylenek runs the 1,500 meters (3:47.87), mile (4:05.13, ranks fifth), 3,000-meter steeplechase (8:48.66) and 5,000 meters (14:09.43). He holds seven top 10 marks in the mile, 1,500 meters, 3,000-meter steeplechase, 5,000 meters, and distance medley relay.
The Clarkston, Michigan, native heads to Madison, Wisconsin, this weekend to compete at the NCAA Championships. He is the first Hawkeye to qualify for the NCAA finals since Jeff Thode in 2011.
Why did you choose Iowa?
“I loved the cross-country team when I visited. It felt like everyone was a family, and it still feels that way!”
If you could invite anyone to dinner, who would it be?
“Rick Ross, he only produces bangers.”
Who has been the most influential to you at Iowa?
“Michael Melchert; the man is a living legend, someone to live your life by, the true embodiment of a Hawkeye.”
What is one thing people don’t know about you?
“I like to watch very weird and obscure sports. One of my favorites is Bo-Taoshi.”
Who is your favorite professional athlete?
“Zlatan Ibrahimovic.”
Do you have any pre-meet rituals?
“I blast Rage Against the Machine in my headphones before my warm-up. Gotta give the people what they want.”
If you could choose anywhere to live, where would you choose?
“Taos, New Mexico, there’s an awesome ski resort out there that has some awesome hiking spots.”
Who would play you in a movie?
“Keanu Reeves, He oozes confidence. I think he would look like a stud running around a track.”
How do you feel about pineapple on pizza?
“If you know… you know.”
Where’s your favorite spot on campus?
“Hillcrest dining hall. They always manage to hit the spot, especially for breakfast. Highly recommend their breakfast.”
Who would you choose to be a part of your Family Feud team?
“I would take a whole team of Marshawn Lynch.”
