Salem State College speedster Eddie Bynum III is already a two-time All-American and a national champion in the 55-meter dash. Now he's getting closer to being the fastest runner in Division 3 collegiate history.
Competing in the Division 3 Indoor Track & Field Championships at Ohio Northern University, Bynum warmed up for today's final by clicking off a 6.25 last night in the trials. That wasn't just Bynum's personal best, it's also the fastest time in the nation this season.
"He looks better than ever," said Salem State assistant coach Jeff Rockwood, who accompanied Bynum to Ada, Ohio. "He's more prepared than ever.
"I'm having a hard time finding problems with his races," added Rockwood. "I look at video of his races and there aren't any issues."
Bynum, who lives in Lynn, clearly established himself as the favorite for today's final. His closest challengers in last night's trials were Steve Headley of Springfield College and Joe Reed of SUNY (State University of New York) in Oneonta, both of whom ran a 6.34.
Last night's super run moved Bynum closer to the all-time Division 3 record of 6.22, set by Stefan Mascoll of SUNY/Cortland in 1999.
"That's how smooth Eddie is running right now," said Rockwood. "He ran the race the right way."
Rockwood wasn't the least bit concerned that Bynum might not have anything left for today's national championship race.
"It's only 55 meters," said Rockwood. "He was trying to establish a rhythm to build on (at the trial run). This is everything he's been working towards. He's doing what he's been taught and what he's capable of doing."
Bynum has been consistently outstanding this season. He broke his own record when he won the MASCAC/Alliance Meet championship with a 6.36. He also took the ECAC title in the dash and won the New England championship with a 6.27, which was the fastest time in the country until last night.
Although everything has to go just right, Rockwood said he wouldn't be surprised if Bynum comes up with a record run today.
"Anything is possible at this point," said Rockwood. "He needs to run the way he's been running at practice. Eddie can only run his race."
That may be good enough for another national championship.
