Q&A With Matt Tegenkamp

[Ryan]

MADISON, Wis. - Matt Tegenkamp wrapped up his UW track and cross country career in June as a seven-time All-American in track, setting a UW record for most All-America honors in a career. Following the completion of his collegiate eligibility, the Lee’s Summit, Mo., native spent the summer competing in Europe.

Tegenkamp began his post-collegiate career by setting a UW record in the 5000 meters at the USA Outdoor Track & Field Championships in Carson, Calif., in late June. Tegenkamp ran a personal best of 13 minutes, 25.36 seconds to place sixth in the race. His time improved upon his own school record of 13:30.90 set in 2004.

Following the USATF Championships, Tegenkamp left for Europe where he competed in three meets. At the Norrtelje Galan in Sweden on July 11, he won the 1500 meters in a personal best time of 3:39.40. Tegenkamp’s time was the fourth fastest ever run by a UW athlete and faster than the best time run by Coach Jerry Schumacher (3:39.46). Tegenkamp also ran the 1500 meters at the Naimette-Xhovemont in Belgium on July 20, finishing fourth in 3:43.77. On July 26, he competed at the DN Galan in Stockholm, placing eighth in the 3000 meters in 7:43.33. Tegenkamp’s time set another UW record, besting the time of 7:58.35 set by Matt Downin in 1999.

Tegenkamp returned to the States in early August where he will continue to train under Schumacher. Following is a Q&A with the former Badger.

UWBadgers.com article