Alan Webb Versus Nick Willis Next Month

Two of the fastest non-African milers are squaring off in Boston.

On February 5, American middle-distance star Alan Webb will take on Olympic silver medalist Nick Willis in the mile. The two are racing in Boston at the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix. In 2007, Webb broke the American record in the outdoor mile, running 3:46.91. Last year, he underwent Achilles surgery. He is coached by former New York City Marathon champion Alberto Salazar.

Nick Willis is New Zealand’s top miler. In 2008, he ended a 32-year Olympic medal drought for New Zealand male track athletes when he won the silver in the 1,500m event. He owns the New Zealand record in the outdoor and indoor 1,500m. He won the mile at the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix in 2009 and 2010.

In the women’s race, organizers announced that Kalkidan Gezahegne will compete. Gezahegne, an Ethiopian, is the reigning World indoor champion in the 1,500m event. She won the 3000m race at Boston last year.

The race will be held at the Reggie Lewis Track and Athletic Center at Roxbury Community College.

For More: IAAF