Patricio Pardo kicked off his quest for a triple title at the AAU Junior Olympic Games 2023 with a record-shattering performance in the 12-year-old boys’ 3000 meters. Pardo clocked a time of 9:33.67 on Day Three at Drake Stadium, Drake University in Iowa, on Monday (31), securing his victory.
Watch 12-Year-Old Patricio Pardo Smashes 3000m At AAU Junior Olympics 2023!
As the reigning champion in this event, Pardo was widely expected to retain his title. Representing the Seven Locks Running Club, he took control of the race from the start and dominated the field on Monday, breaking the 36-year-old record of 9:40.80 set back in 1987. – Watch his Video Interview on Milesplit
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Read more: Day 3: AAU Track and Field Junior Olympics 2023 Start Lists, Live Results, and Schedule
When asked about his thoughts and feelings during the race, Pardo shared, “Try my hardest and do something good out there.” He admitted to initial nerves, saying, “I was kind of nervous in the beginning.”
Pardo was well aware of the long-standing record before the race, having kept the mark in his thoughts since last year. He also expressed his wish to break the record for his sister, who couldn’t attend the meet due to financial constraints.
“Yes, since last year, I had it in my head. My sister wasn’t able to come, so I wanted to race it for her. My dad didn’t have enough money to bring her here,” Pardo explained.
Finishing behind Pardo in Monday’s race were Archer Brown and Dominic Johnson, both of whom also broke the 10-minute mark with respective times of 9:55.39 and 9:58.69.
With the 3000m event now behind him, Patricio Pardo will shift his focus to the 800m and 1500m races as the AAU Junior Olympic Games 2023 continue this week.
The AAU Junior Olympic Games 20 in Des Moines, Iowa, is taking place from 29 July 29 through 5 August.
Click here for the complete results of the race
