BILLINGS – Former Laurel distance runner Patrick Casey nearly won the men’s 1,500 meter run Sunday at the Seiko Golden Grand Prix in Japan, finishing second to Australia’s Ryan Gregson in 3:39.11. The winning time was 3:37.72.
Casey was the only American runner.
Three years ago Casey was on target to reach the Rio Olympics before injuries hampered him.
Casey’s father, Tim, say Patrick now feels the healthiest he has in years and that Patrick is racing internationally in Europe. However, he plans to compete this weekend at the prestigious PreFontaine Classic in Eugene, Ore.
Casey is currently sponsored by Under Armour in a contract that extends through the next Olympics, according to his father.
After competing for Laurel High School, Casey ran for Montana State before closing his career at the University of Oklahoma. He currently lives and trains in Flagstaff, Ariz.
