Deniz Goes to Third All-Time at Fanelli Classic

Sophomore Esteban Deniz took another shot at the 5000 meter record board and was able to to move up one spot at the Mike Fanelli Classic in San Francisco. Having run 14:39.86 at the Occidental Spring Break Classic to run under 14:40 for the first time, this time the King City graduate was able to run 14:37.75 and move past Daniel Tapia and into the third overall position. He now only trails two Northern California champions in the event, Diego Leon and Isaac Gensel. Deniz is currently ranked second in Norcal in the 1500 meters, third in the 5000 meters and 10,000 meters heading into April.

Fellow King City graduate Ricky Diaz III was able to win his 5000 meter heat and also achieve the State "A" standard. He was timed in 15:13.60. Diaz will have to place in the top six overall at the Northern California Championship to advance to the CCCAA State Championship. Joshua Riley lowered his personal best to 15:35.04 with teammate Jose Velaquez at 15:45.75. Freshman Mario Avila won his first college race in 15:59.01. Miguel Leon-Fernandez was 16:18.21 with Jesus Martinez at a season best 16:27.22. 

In the 1500 meters, Kaimana Cantere had the best time for the Panthers running 4:13.24 to win his heat. Emiliano Ramirez took five seconds off his season best to run 4:14.27. Liam Pattison ran 4:15.63. Isael Estrada (4:27.11) and Maximo Puga (4:30.29) also competed. Cantere (10:17.91) and Puga (11:00.66) also competed in the 3k steeplechase on Thursday. 

On Saturday the 800 meter heats were run with Ricky Diaz III leading a trio of Panthers who won their heats. He was timed in a lfetime best 1:58.04. Liam Pattison won his heat in a lifetime best 1:59.00. Joshua Riley was 2:01.92 a day after his 5000 meter race.  Kaimana Cantere took a heat win with 2:02.82 with Emiliano Ramirez at 2:04.31. Isael Estrada ran 2:09.62.

The Panthers will compete next in the annual Hartnell vs De Anza "Duel" Meet on Wednesday, April 5th at De Anza College in Cupertino, CA.