MARATHON — Jeffrey Tait's time of 45 minutes, 53 seconds in the 23rd annual Seven Mile Bridge Run was quite impressive for any serious runner. That's an average of 6:40 per mile, which would make even the seasoned runner proud to accomplish.

Now picture this: Tait is only 9 years old and has been running competitively for just more than a year.

"I didn't want to go out too fast today, but it turns out I went out a little bit faster. So I just tried to maintain that pace," Tait said. "I'm pretty pleased with this distance since it's the longest I've ever run."

Not a serious runner according to stepfather and training partner, Jon Williams, Tait quickly is raking in the trophies, medals and accolades that an older runner might have a tough time grabbing.

This kid is so good, he is promoting himself through his own Web site.

But when you talk to Tait, you quickly realize he still is kid.

Asked why he wanted to do the run, Tait said, "I like to run races. It's fun. I've never run a seven-mile race before, but this was fun."

According to Tait's Web site, http://www.jeffreyrunning.com/, he began running when he was 6 years old and cross-trains to become a better, more recognized athlete.

He currently is soliciting sponsors, is available for public speaking engagements, coaching and as traveling billboard.

A third grader, Tait said he wants to run a marathon some day. But Williams is not pushing him, as he fears it will hamper his growth.

Meanwhile, Tait will continue to add to his collection of over 35 trophies, ribbons and plaques from running, duathlons and triathlons.

Tait has been recognized nationally as one of the top runners in his age group. Williams said they will still keep everything in perspective.

"Jeffrey is really good and is probably has one of the top 10 5K times in the country right now in his age group," Williams said. "We don't train hard, we don't want to push too hard. As long as he enjoys it, we're having a good time. We train in the mornings before school. We normally run about four to four and a half miles.

"He wants to run a marathon, but I told him he'd have to wait until his 20s."

Williams, who ran in college and high school, stopped running for 15 years and was just getting back into it when Tait asked if he could tag along. He quickly realized that Tait had plenty of talent and encouraged him to keep running.

"When I was 6, I ran a race and just stopped running," Tait said. "I just started again. I really enjoy racing and am having a good time."

For the Seven Mile Bridge Run on Saturday morning, Williams' 41:19 was still better than Tait's time. Williams knows, though, that it will not be long before the young runner takes the lead.

"Luckily for him, I can still beat him," Williams said. "It's lucky for him he's got someone faster than him to train with.

"But I know it's not going to be long before he beats me."

rcooke@keysnews.com