Rich qualifies via AVG: 54:58 and brings coach IQ to the floor. He’s not just fit — he understands why things fall apart, and that helps him stop them falling apart in real time.
Phoenix storyline: execution > ego. Rich can thrive in a Major because he doesn’t get baited into stupid pacing. He’ll let others surge, then quietly keep his stations smooth and his transitions clean. If Phoenix becomes a battle of mistakes, Rich is a top candidate to finish higher than the “headline” names expect — because he doesn’t gift anything. And if the race gets tactical late, he’s experienced enough to choose the right moments to push.
