Akron's Clayton Murphy Launches a Professional Career

Courtesy of Akron's Sport Information Department

AKRON, Ohio - University of Akron middle-distance runner Clayton Murphy (New Paris, Ohio) has announced he will forgo his final year of eligibility and turn professional after capturing the 1,500 meter title at the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships on Friday, June 10 in Eugene, Ore.

"Turning professional was a very tough decision I made following the NCAA Championships," Murphy commented. "I decided to take the next step in my running career because I feel I am ready to compete against some of the best in the world in every race. I'm staying in Akron with Coach LaBadie to train and I will be finishing my finance degree in May. I want…