Ridge Robinson emerges alone from around a bend. Only after several long seconds do the rest of the athletes come into view, scrambling to catch up with Ohio's top runner.
The problem for the Bobcats is that he's not wearing their colors.
Instead, Robinson is wearing a generic black jersey. He is redshirting this season and is limited to running unattached in Ohio's meets.
Despite establishing himself this year as the best runner at Ohio and perhaps in the Mid-American Conference, Robinson's results do not count for his team.
We're taking a little bit of a ding this year
coach Clay Calkins said. It affects the team obviously because (Robinson is) doing so well and not in the results.
The Bobcats could have used him so far.
Robinson finished first overall in Ohio's first two meets against some of the best teams in the state and the nation. That includes Atlantic Coast Conference competition like Florida State, which is ranked 28th in the nation.
He also edged Dayton and MAC powerhouse Kent State, which were ranked seventh and 10th, respectively, in the Great Lakes region.
At the All-Ohio Championships on Oct. 2, Robinson's time of 26:20.2 in the open race would have been good for third overall in the main event of 269 runners. Only athletes from Cincinnati and Ohio State, the latter being ranked fifth in the Great Lakes region, had better times.
Even though Robinson has had success running unattached this season, he would much rather his results count for the team.
It kind of drives you nuts every now and then
Robinson said. I honestly think I would have a shot at winning the MAC (individual title) this year.
Robinson's decision to redshirt was part necessity and part strategy.
Academically, he is using this year to catch up on classes in his new major, digital media. For athletics, it is a maneuver to allow Ohio's core of freshmen and sophomores time to develop. And, with Robinson's help, to potentially contend for a MAC title next season.
Next year we're going to be really good
Robinson said. I wouldn't doubt it if a couple of these (younger) guys have some breakout years next year.
Freshman Tyler Ames said that while the men want to run well this year, everyone is looking forward to next season.
Obviously losing your top guy is going to hurt the team
Ames said. But he's definitely (redshirting) for the benefit of the team.
