Holland Reporter

Former Grand Valley State athlete Zach Panning achieved a 10th place finish in the 2024 Chicago Marathon, marking a personal record with a time of 2:09.16. This performance positioned him as the second fastest American man in the race, trailing behind CJ Albertson, who secured seventh place with a time of 2:08.17.

Panning expressed mixed feelings about his result, stating to LetsRundotcom, "It's a PR, that's always fun, but I definitely wanted a lot more." Despite setting a new personal best by shaving off 12 seconds from his previous record, he remains motivated for future improvements.

Having qualified for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials during the 2022 Chicago Marathon with a then-personal-best of 2:09.28, Panning later finished sixth at those trials in February 2024 with a time of 2:10.50.

During his tenure at Grand Valley State University from 2015 to 2019, Panning distinguished himself as an accomplished runner. He earned titles such as three-time national champion and USTFCCCA National Outdoor Track Athlete of the Year.

Reflecting on Panning's progression over the years, his coach Jerry Baltes commented on his development and potential for further success: "Looking back, Panning's time at GVSU was very similar to his now...He simply kept working hard and committing to the process...there is no doubt in my mind that he will reach all the goals he has set for himself."