ALEXANDRIA, Va. - Brian Shrader brought home a huge win yesterday at the US National 12K in Alexandria, Va. Shrader set a national record in the event with his time of 34:10.

This was Shrader's - who will compete his final indoor season for the Lumberjacks this year - first competitive 12K and first national win. 

"This race was a moment that I'm never going to forget," said Shrader. "Going into that straightaway and knowing I could get that win is something I'll never forget. You always dream of winning, and when it actually happens, it does shock you. It makes everything worth it."

Former Lumberjack Diego Estrada trailed Shrader by only a second, taking second with a time of 34:11 and defending champion Aaron Braun was third with 34:15. Braun set the pace for much of the 12K but was overtaken by Shrader with less than a half-mile to go. 

"I'm not quite as well known in the sport, so this opens up a lot of doors for me and helps keep my dream alive," said Shrader. "None of this would be possible without the guidance from Coach Heins. This reinforces that he is one of the best - if not the best - coach in the nation. He knows what he's doing."

A Flagstaff native, Shrader transferred to Northern Arizona after spending two years at the University of Oregon. During his time as a Lumberjack, he has won multiple Big Sky Championships in track & field and cross country and he has garnered multiple All-American honors. Last year, he helped the 'Jacks to their second-place finish at the NCAA Cross Country Championships.

"Dan Millman says 'An overnight sensation usually takes 10 years.' This quote says it all when it comes to Brian," explained Director of Track & Field and Cross Country Eric Heins. "We have all known that Brian was going to do something special with his running and that it was only a matter of time. Brian is a fantastic runner and an even better human being. I could not be more happy for his success this past weekend. He has worked his tail off for this and will only continue to improve."

The race was held by USARC which holds road championships for all distances from the mile to the marathon.