By STEVE SINISKI
Running out to the front of the pack on the first lap, Ashley (1:56.20) held off late charges by both Roslyn's Tom Lipari (1:56.90) and Westbury's Eric Banks (1:57.50).
"Anytime anyone made a move I was able to counter and keep pace," Ashley said. "I was able to execute the race strategy and it worked perfectly."
According to coach Phil Costello, Ashley was ready to take on all challenges to his lead down the stretch. "Jordan seemed like he had a little left if somebody pressed him."
In setting the pace on the first lap with a time of 56 seconds, Ashley continued to maintain his lead with little dropoff his second time around the track, adding just four seconds, a clear demonstration of what helps push him past opponents. "His strength is his strength," Costello said. "He's a really strong runner. He's got endurance and power, and he's able to keep a strong pace."
Ashley's title run was one of two personal bests he set during the two-day championship tournament. He returned on May 29 for the 1,600 meter run and earned All-County honors with a second place finish (4:30.0), falling 10 seconds behind South Side's Brian Riley. Much like he did in the 800, Ashley tried to force the issue and set the pace from the opening lap, hoping to take advantage of the strength training he went through during the year.
"I couldn't have done it without the support of coach Costello and coach [Al] Berkowsky and my family and friends support and belief in me," Ashley said.
He now has three total All-County finishes under his belt after taking third place in the 1,000 meter run during the winter track season.
"He was really focused onto every little thing that needed to be done," Costello said, noting Ashley's attention to details in diet, stretching and practice. "The attention to detail made him that much stronger.
Comments about this story? tbellissimo@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000, ext. 204.
