writing about running

Introducing the Daily Relay

2013-04-14T11:14:00.001-04:00

I'd like to introduce a new site that I am involved in, the Daily Relay.

What is it?
The Daily Relay will provide similar content to what has been here at Writing About Running, but it will be more consistent (daily posts) and will have a great group of writers involved.

Who is involved?
Jim McDannald of Track Focus
Kevin Sully of the House of Run podcast
Jesse Squire aka the Track Superfan

What will I be writing?
I'll be the contributing editor to The Mixed Zone, which will be a take on the entertainment side of Track and Field. I'll also be the contributing editor to 5 Questions, a section similar to the 5QW here at WAR.

Want a link to my first post?
Sure, why not. It's entitled "5 Reasons the Boston Marathon is similar to The Masters (and 5 reasons it’s different)"

If you have any questions, feel free to email or tweet at me!

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

Team USA Senior Men upset Kenya for World Cross Country Silver

2013-03-24T10:34:00.001-04:00

Ben True (photo:Mike Scott/Milesplit)

The snow covered course had been trampled all day by the Juniors and Senior Womens races, but the Senior Men's event would be the last chance for an American medal on the uneven grounds of Bydgoszcz, Poland, where the 40th IAAF World Cross Country Championships would take place.

The US Men would field a strong team, but one that would see Dathan Ritzenhein opt out due to his running of the NYC Half and both Matt Tegenkamp and Luke Puskedra having to bow out to injury. What could also be considered is Galen Rupp not participating due to his barnstorming indoor season.

The goal at this point had to be to get on the medal stand, but some breakout performances by multiple team members led to even more.

Ben True, hot off his USATF 15k Championship, would run the race of his life, and would finish a very strong sixth overall. He would also be the first non-African to cross the line. Chris Derrick would back up his strong win at the USA Cross Country Championships with a tenth place finish; one that would certainly fulfill his pre-race goal.

Beyond these two, things got interesting. Elliott Heath would finish 30th overall and hung there most of the race, but somehow, Team USA kept moving up the rungs each lap. They were fifth with three laps to go, then fourth with two laps to go, then third with one lap to go.

How did this happen?

Derrick, Mack, Vail, Strang, True, Heath
(photo:IAAF)

"Steady Eddies" Ryan Vail and Bobby Mack were slowing working their way through the pack and would finish 17th and 19th, respectively, to push Team USA past Kenya to second on the medal stand. A Silver medal; over Kenya!

Even James Strang, who was called in very recently, to replace the injured Tegenkamp, would run a very strong 37th, and finish ahead of Canada's Cam Levins, to complete an all-around American fireworks show.

Ethiopia would take the win with 38 points, to USA's 52 and Kenya's 54.

Full results are here

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

American Distance Running future stars emerge during 2013 Indoor Season

2013-03-10T22:00:00.001-04:00

Mary Cain
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

Future stars emerge every winter during the indoor season. Some continue to blossom during outdoors and some run out of steam. What will this year's class do? We'll likely find out at some early season meets like Raleigh Relays, Stanford Invitational and Mt. Sac Relays.

The ultimate goal for these athletes will be a strong performance at USATF Outdoors June 20-23 at Drake Stadium in Des Moines, IA, with hopes of qualifying for the IAAF World Championships August 10-18 in Moscow.

Who attain the World Championship A-Standards and who will emerge and don the Team USA kit come August?

Female
1. Mary Cain
High School Junior
Previous achievements: 6th at 2013 World Junior Champs 1500 in American High School Oudoor Record of 4:11.01
Notable 2013 achievements: USATF Indoor Mile Champ (5:05.68 - 58.61 final 400). American High School Indoor Two Mile Record at Boston Grand Prix (9:38.68). American High School Indoor Mile Record at Millrose Games (4:28.25).
Thoughts: What more needs to be said? Best season ever for a female high school runner. We'll see if she can keep progressing outdoors, get the A-Standard of 4:05.50, and compete with the likes of Morgan Uceny, Jenny Simpson and Shannon Rowbury.

2. Ajee Wilson @AjeeW
Sponsor: Adidas
Previous achievements: 2012 World Junior 800 Champ (2:00.91)
Notable 2013 achievements: USATF Indoor 800 Champ (2:02.64). World Junior 600 Record (1:26.45).
Thoughts: Wilson passed on Florida State after setting the 600 World Junior Record (for the first time. She should compete for a spot on the Moscow World Championship team this summer, but will need to run the A-Standard of 2:00.00 to be considered.

Abbey D (photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

3. Abbey D'Agostino
School: Dartmouth
Previous achievements: 2012 NCAA Outdoor 5000 Champ. 5th at 2012 Olympic Trials 5000 (15:19.98).
Notable 2013 achievements: NCAA Indoor Champ at 3000 (9.01.08) and 5000 (15:28.11).
Thoughts: D'Agostino is the most accomplished of the bunch here, with a National Championship already under her wing. But the way she dominated indoors shows her development. She'll look to defend her outdoor 5000 title and compete for a spot on the World team this summer, as the 15:18.00 A-Standard is just off her outdoor personal best.

4. Chelsea Reilly @CheReillyRuns
Agent: Flynn Sports Management
Previous achievements: 2012 USATF 10k Road Champ (32:41)
Notable 2013 achievements: USATF Indoor 3000 Champ (9:23.12) over Lisa Uhl and Emily Infeld. 8:53.89 for 3000 at British Athletics Grand Prix
Thoughts: Reilly ran a few excellent races this winter and capped it off with her first national championship on the track. She should compete for a spot on the 10,000 team for Moscow, but will need to run 31:45.00 likely at Stanford to be in contention.

5. Kate Grace @fastk8
Sponsor: Oiselle
Previous achievements: 2:01.63 Personal Best in 800. 4:10.57 Personal Best in 1500.
Notable 2013 achievements: 3rd at Millrose Games (4:28.79). 8:55.06 for 3000 at UW Invitational
Thoughts: Grace is quickly progressing. I'm not sure what her best distance will be, but she should have a breakout outdoor season, even if qualifying for Worlds may be a more distant goal.

Erik Sowinski (photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

Male
1. Erik Sowinski @eSowinski
Sponsor: Running Wild
Previous achievements: 2nd at 2012 NCAA Outdoor in PR of 1:45.60 (to Charles Jock). 3rd at 2013 NCAA Indoor 800. Semi-finalist at 2012 Olympic Trials.
Notable 2013 achievements: USATF Indoor 800 Champ (1:47.09) over Robby Andrews, Tyler Mulder and Matt Centrowitz. 600 American Record (1:15.61) at Millrose Games over Duane Solomon and Nick Symmonds.
Thoughts: 2013 has been a true breakout year for Sowinski and he'll hope to carry that momentum outdoors. The A-Standard for the 800 is 1:45.30, just off his personal best. He'll likely need a second faster than that to make Team USA.

2. Will Leer @william_leer
Sponsor: Nike
Previous achievements: 4th at 2008 Olympic Trials 1500. 3:36.33 Personal Best in 1500.
Notable 2013 achievements: USATF Indoor Champ at Mile (3:58.79) and 3000 (8:07.84).
Thoughts: Leer has always been a racer, yet he has never hit a World A-Standard. He'll need to run 3:35.00 early to be ready to fight for a spot on the always tough 1500 team. If he can get that out of the way, I like his chances at the USATF Outdoor Final.

Will Leer
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

3. Ryan Hill @ryanhillncstate
School: NC State
Previous achievements: 5th at 2012 Olympic Trials 5000 (13:27.49)
Notable 2013 achievements: NCAA Indoor Runner-up at Mile (3:55.25). 6th at Millrose Games (3:54.89).
Thoughts: Hill has shown some serious speed this winter. He'll need to run the A-Standard of 13:15.00 to be in contention for a spot on the Worlds team, but has improved steadily every year and has phenomenal closing speed. He'll look to battle Kennedy Kithuka and Lawi Lalang over 5000 for an NCAA Championship this outdoor season as well.

4. Eli Greer
School: Oregon
Previous achievements: 1:45.06 Personal Best in 800. 2012 Olympic Trials 800 Finalist.
Notable 2013 achievements: NCAA Indoor Champ at 800 (1:47.13).
Thoughts: Greer continues to get better and will compete for a spot on Team USA. He'd love to win an NCAA Outdoor title in the proceess.

5. Cas Loxsom @cassylox
School: Penn State
Previous achievements: 1:45.28 Personal Best in 800
Notable 2013 achievements: Fastest American time ever at 600 (1:15.42 - Oversized Track). NCAA Indoor Runner-up at 800.
Thoughts: The knock on Loxsom has always been his inability to make and run well in championship finals. He looks to have overcome that dig this winter with his runner-up finish at NCAA's. He'll look to build on that this spring as he has the best "true speed" out of any of the top American 800 guys right now (save maybe Solomon and Jock).

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

5 (more) Questions with the Gate River Run Elite Athlete Coordinator, Richard Fannin

2013-03-06T08:57:00.000-05:00

Richard Fannin will be everywhere this weekend

Today we have five more with more questions with the man behind the elite fields at this weekend's Gate River Run 15k National Championship. Here's the first set of 5 Questions with Mr. Fannin (from 2012) and the 2013 edition is below! Follow the race this Saturday on Runnerspace.

5 (more) Questions with Richard Fannin

1. Writing About Running: The Gate River Run 15k kicks off the road racing season each year. Everyone is excited for a new beginning. How does that energy translate to your event?

Richard Fannin: Yes, it seems that after a long track season, and the big fall marathons, everyone is ready to rest and re-group over the holidays. Many of these runners train in cold winter locations and are excited about an early season fitness test in balmy Florida. There is usually a little element of mystery, as many runners haven't raced in a few months and this is often their first race of the year. The slate is clean on the USA Running Circuit - and it is open season !

2. Writing About Running: American distance running icon, Todd Williams, set the American Record here in 1995 with a scintillating 42:22. How has that record stood for 18 years?

Todd Williams in Adidas' "Runners, Yeah we're different" ad

Richard Fannin: Todd Williams' American (and course) record was the result of a great runner having one of those perfect days where it all clicked. The course was a little different that year, with a long downhill ramp coming off the Hart Bridge. But that was such a great performance, I think it would still be the American Record on the current course, just maybe 15-20 seconds slower.

3. Writing About Running: You fly a great deal of athletes in, put them up in a nice hotel, feed them and host a post-race party. What else is it that makes this weekend such a "can't miss" on the USA Running Circuit?

Richard Fannin: We really do try to pay attention to every last little detail for the runners, and we have assembled a great group of volunteers here from JTC Running that get it done! My belief is that the less they have to worry about logistics, and the more relaxed they are, the better they can perform on race day. And as mentioned earlier, Jacksonville in early March typically has lows in the fifties and highs in the seventies - and tons of sunshine - that makes this race an easy sell after often long cruel winters in Minneapolis, Mammoth, Flagstaff, Boulder, etc.

4. Writing About Running: You are very plugged in to the sport. What changes could be made, in your opinion, to move the sport forward?

Richard Fannin: I think the advent of the big teams and training groups is the best thing that has happened to US distance running in 20 years. It has allowed many more elites to forego the professional world for a few years and focus solely on their sport. The team competition we created five years ago was designed to really reward and encourage those teams that are making it happen. A lot of runners come here and - although they might not finish in Top 10, end up going home with some nice prize money. The team competition is something we hope will catch on around the USATF circuit. I know the 8k championships is having a team competition this year.

5. Writing About Running: What's new for the 2013 edition of the Gate River Run?

Richard Fannin: We have several new things we are excited about this year. The first is that The Equalizer bonus is going to be 6 minutes 35 seconds .. based on our new formula of using the exact split the prior 3 years, averaged to the second, which we think will make for a very close race.

Craig Virgin on multiple Track & Field News covers

As referenced earlier, the team race is not new, but this year is the largest and most robust it has ever been; with teams from Hansons Brooks, Asics Aggies, Adidas Boulder Running Company (ADP), Boulder Track Club, ASTF, New Balance Silicon Valley, Nike Team Run LA, Sacramento Elite, Team USA Minnesota, Team USA Arizona, and Zap Fitness.

We are excited about our guest speaker for Friday night, Craig Virgin. Between breaking Steve Prefontaine's high school record, winning an NCAA title, winning two World Cross Country Championships, and appearing in three Olympic Games, he has quite a resume and quite an inspirational story to tell.

And as always, we are excited about the parties we throw for the runners on Saturday night. After a couple of nervous days and a big race, it is fun to blow off steam and celebrate with the runners. The elite distance running crowd in the US is really a pretty small fraternity, and most of the runners know each other well and are good friends. We try to position our race as a fun, spring break "family" reunion weekend; where hey, there also happens to be an awesome 15k race!

Have a request or recommendation for who next 5 Questions with should be with? Email writingaboutrunning@gmail.com

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

Hobby Jogging: That time I got farted on during a Colon Cancer race

2013-03-02T11:56:00.002-05:00

I've been injured for a long time and the spring of 2013 has long been earmarked as my return to "racing." I know it's going to take a while to get my bearings back, but that's ok. Time I have.

Before today, I recently competed decently at the Run at the Rock 7 Mile trail race, not so well at a "5k" in Brier Creek (that clocked 3.35 miles on my Garmin), and just last Saturday, had a blast running the Black Mountain Marathon with my dad; his first marathon since Boston '88. Today would be a true gauge of fitness on the hilly "Get Your Rear in Gear" course that I have run well on before (17:29 in 2010). Bring it on.

So I was a little more nervous than I should have been. Training has been a steady 25-35 miles a week since December and I can start to feel the consistency paying off. While I have only done a few little workouts, at 6:00 pace, I was hoping to run that speed today. I got up, had some coffee, a small breakfast, and watched Lopez Lomong's 5k American Record from last night on Flotrack. I was ready, I thought.

Warmed up and hit the start. Some poor girl muffed the national anthem, then we were off. A guy from Bull City Running took off from the gun and I was behind him and one other guy for the first half mile. As we turned onto Peace, I passed the second guy, but was a ways back from the leader. The first part of the hill by Cameron Village hurt, but I carried on. Hit the mile in 6:04 or so and was a little bummed, but was happy with my position in a sea of 720 or so competitors. Cruised down Clark and began to lose a little steam at the turnaround. I was right on around 19:00 pace. I wanted under.

This is an out and back race and part of the fun of the second half is hearing the cheers from the other runners as you press back towards the Fletcher Park finish. I heard the footsteps behind me as I approached the downhill, but I knew how to run this section. I thought so at least. My legs did not agree. I passed the 2 mile in 12:32 and was pissed. How did I slow so much? Oh well. Back to the race. At 2.25 miles, my legs weren't responding, but I pressed on, wanting to hold my ground.

This is where it got weird.

Finishing the death march

As I began to approach Broughton High School, one of the race volunteers approached me, turned around, and ripped a fart right on my leg; damn near tripping me, to the enjoyment of his cohorts. "You asshole," I called out. What a dick. I was feeling like $hit and I get farted on by some idiot, who was a volunteering at a race that raises awareness for colon cancer. How ironic.

So I soldier through the last bit of the race, hold my silver podium spot and finish in 19:05. I was bummed to not break 19, but I'll get there again. I ran 19:29 there in 2009 and then dropped 2 minutes the following year.

After finishing, I walked back to my car, called my girlfriend to tell her how I did, then did what any other mid-thirties sane person would do and put on my pullover, hat, and compression pants and jogged back onto the course, looking for the perp.

I'm generally pretty laid back, but this is the kind of thing that pisses me off, and although my 6 foot, 180 pound build isn't great for racing, it's ideal for post-race confrontation. I'm not a meathead. Promise.

Not a satisfied look

So I jog back up Clark as people continue to trickle in and I spot him. He and his cronies are now the race sweepers, sitting in the back of a pick up truck, driving towards the finish. They catch a red light. I approach. The girls start laughing and pointing. I say "I know you're the guy that farted on me." He says he's not. The girls are in hysterics. I hold my gaze. "I just want you to know that I know. Have a great day buddy." His face is frozen. That was it. I jogged back. While the guy was equally my size, it was obvious that he would not be testing the guy in the tight, black pants. For the better, of course.

But that was that. I got back to the finish area, collected my award (a gift certificate to my team's store, Capital RunWalk, which my girlfriend will enjoy), headed to Breugger's and got a bacon, egg and cheese on everything, and a french toast coffee. All is well. Onward and upward. Probably even treat myself to a beer at Trophy Brewing later today.

Looking forward to the next one!

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

Bobby Mack's win leads Team USA Men to victory at Great Edinburgh International Cross Country

2013-01-05T11:19:00.001-05:00

The Mack Attack on the BBC. Get this man a shoe deal!

Cool calm and collected was the best way to describe Bobby Mack's run over the grassy hills of the course at the 2013 Great Edinburgh International Cross Country race Saturday afternoon in Scotland. That was until the last 200 meters, when he began his eyeballs out attack on the 2012 winner, Ayad Lamdassem.

For most of the race, Mack, Lamdassem, Andy Vernon and Sergey Lebid trailed a defiant Tom Humphries, who would lead until about 250 meters to go. Humphries would finish just off the podium in fourth. Mack, on the other hand, would let Lamdassem lead him out until the final 100 meters, where he would find another gear and storm across the finish line in first in 24:27 over the 8 kilometer course.

"I knew if I could hang with Lamdassem when he pulled away that I could have a good opportunity to kick and get off that mud and thick grass over the last 50 to 100 meters" said Mack to Alberto Stretti after the race (full interview below). "It's really fun to get over here and run some true cross country, because usually in the World Championships, you're going to be out on a course that could be just like this. So it's good preparation."

Mack will attempt defend his 2012 USA Cross Country title and qualify for the 2013 World Cross Country team February 2nd in St. Louis, MO. Mack is currently a volunteer assistant coach at NC State and runs for (and works at) Capital RunWalk in Raleigh, NC, where he is hosting a 3-day running retreat, starting January 18th. He currently trains under Coach Rollie Geiger; with Ryan Hill, Stephen Furst, Sandy Roberts, Andrew Colley and the rest of the Wolfpack squad.

Team USA took the win on the Men's side with a strong come from behind finish. Behind Mack was Jake Riley (7th - 24:50), Craig Forys (8th - 24:56), Elliot Krause (10th - 25:05), Sean Quigley (11th - 25:07), Jonathan Peterson (12th - 25:08), Matt Forys (14th - 25:11), Joe Moore (15th - 25:11) and Philip Reid (22nd - 25:42).

Watch the race replay below:
Watch Mack's interview with Alberto Stretti below:
Read "5 Questions with Bobby Mack" here

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

Guest host on the House of Run Podcast

2012-11-28T22:46:00.000-05:00

The best shirt in Track & Field podcast history!

With Jason Halpin recovering from knee surgery, I channeled my inner Colin Kaepernick and joined Kevin Sully on this week's episode of the House of Run podcast. I've raved here about the House of Run before, but it's worth repeating; the House of Run is an excellent weekly podcast that any Track & Field fan should have in their rotation.

Tune into this week's pod here, or better yet, subscribe via iTunes here and listen to Kevin and I chat about the IAAF Athletes of the Year, the Ekiden Relay, World Cross, the Olympic Trials format, Adam Nelson's potential 2004 Gold Medal, the Usain Bolt/Yohan Blake rivalry, the London bottle thrower, Fukuoka, the Drake Relays, NXN, Foot Locker, and of course, Oscar Pistorius "allegedly" threatening to break a man's legs.

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

My offer to NYC Marathon runners

2012-11-02T17:50:00.002-04:00

It's official. The NYC Marathon is canceled. I hope all the resources allotted for the race will now go to help rebuild the city as fast as possible. I hope the holding area in Staten Island is used as a safe haven for those that have been displaced.

But if you have trained and want to race Sunday (Marathon, Half Marathon or 10k), come down to Raleigh, NC.

Here's what I can offer:

1. Ride to and from the airport (RDU) on Saturday, Sunday and Monday

2. Recommendations for cheap lodging near the start of the race (Days Inn a mile from the start/finish is $60)

3. A great post race party at the Busy Bee Cafe (they are having a pasta dinner Saturday night as well)

Here's more information about the race: City of Oaks Marathon (I'll be running the 4-man relay for Capital RunWalk)

I'm dead serious. If interested, email me at writingaboutrunning@gmail.com (or call me to work out logistics)

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

The show will go on in NYC.

2012-11-01T21:41:00.000-04:00

The show will go on this Sunday in New York City. Some hate it, some love it. I fall somewhere closer to the latter. Many are disappointed that their travel has been disrupted. That's tough. I've been flying in and out of LaGuardia every Monday and Thursday for the past seven months and know first hand how best laid plans can go awry. My 3:30-turned-11:30 departure last Thursday seems pretty small in comparison to the desolation that Sandy has inflicted on the biggest and best city in America. I also know how good it felt to run this great race in 2009.

While being the financial capital of the world, New York is also the most resilient city in the world. Many have been displaced, but the city will come together and recover. As much as I feel for those that are in dire straits right now, I'm happy that the race will be run. The New York City Marathon is as good as it gets. Mary Wittenberg and the New York Road Runners will do everything in their power to put on the best race they possibly can for those all over the world on this first Sunday in November.

Whatever your opinion, set your DVR and/or watch the marathon this Sunday at 9am eastern on ESPN. (A program called "Marathon Morning Across America: 2012 ING New York City Marathon" will air at 7am on ESPN 3). The better the ratings, the more likely it will be that more major running events are carried by ESPN. And I think we can all agree that this would be a good thing!

writing about running predictions:

Men
1. Moses Mosop
2. Martin Lel
3. Wilson Kipsang
Darkhorse: Meb Keflezighi
Next American: Jason Hartmann

Women
1. Bizunesh Deba
2. Kim Smith
3. Tatyana Arkhipova
Darkhorse: Edna Kiplagat
Top Americans: Amy Hastings & Molly Pritz

Prep for Sunday with two great podcasts:

House of Run - Jason and Kevin are joined by Jesse Squire and Dan Rubenstein

The Trailer - The guys are joined by Lauren Fleshman

...and the always excellent LetsRun.com Men's and Women's preview

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

5 Important Steps for the Track and Field Union

2012-09-26T08:19:00.000-04:00

"I'd like to thanks my sponsor underneath this tape"
(Photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

After a brief, post-Olympic hiatus, I'm back. Lots to talk about with the cross country season now in full swing and the talk of track and field unionizing. This opinion piece is the byproduct of 32 ounces of dark roast Blue State Coffee and a true desire to help the sport thrive now, and in the future. Note: I am a supporting member of TFAA.

If you had't heard yet, Track and Field is unionizing. This has been brewing for a few years with the development of the Track and Field Athletes Association aka TFAA. What started as a small group of enthusiasts, has gained some major traction with the endorsement and membership of the biggest name in the sport, Usain Bolt. Now is the time to really push the agenda to truly professionalize the sport and give the athletes more ownership of their earning potential.

But what can they do? There's tons of ideas floating around and every athlete has different wants and needs. That in mind, these are the 5 things I think should be at the top of the agenda.

1. Make joining the union a necessity
For a union to work, everyone must be a part of it. Every player in the NFL is part of the players union. Same goes for any other major sport. This must be the same for track and field. You must have a united front to bargain with USATF, the IAAF and the IOC. If everyone is acting on their own, nothing will change. A united union must stand together and act as the only pool of athletes that the Diamond League can select from. Rogue athletes must be treated like scabs. Why so harsh you might ask? Go to #2.

2. Implement a stronger international drug testing pool
Aside from cycling, track and field comes under the most scrutiny for drug use. Just watch the Olympics and you'll see athletes come out of nowhere every four years, win medals, then never be heard from again. To thrive, the sport must police itself. A union must strengthen the relationship with WADA, USADA (in the US) and the national anti-doping organizations from every nation that has members in the union. The rules must be strict and must include every level of testing that is available (biological passport, human growth test, etc). Every athlete must back this force meet directors to shun those who choose not to participate in the necessary testing.

Lets make these OK to wear in a Diamond League meet

3. Get sponsor rules changed
For athletes to thrive, the rules must change so that they can make a living; not just get by. I spoke with Matt Scherer outside of the Wild Duck Cafe at the Olympic Trials and noticed he was wearing a Picky Bars sweatband. Five feet away was Lauren Fleshman. So I pulled them together and asked, "why not wear a Picky Bars singlet while your racing?" That turned into "you've gotta get Picky Bars approved as a club with USATF, then it can only go in the upper right hand corner of the singlet." Why can't Picky Bars or say, McDonald's or Subway be a title sponsor. Or dare I say Budweiser or New Belgium; a beer company with major ties to cycling. Lead sponsors should not be limited to shoe companies. If Nike or Adidas want to sign an athlete to an exclusive contract, that's great! But the union should agree upon a multi-spot sponsor design and present it to USATF nationally and the IAAF internationally. An example of a multi-spot sponsor could be logos the center of the singlet, the upper left hand corner (as the upper right is reserved for club affiliation), the back of the singlet and then any shoulder temporary tattoos or sweat/headbands. I am not tied to any particular arrangement, but this is something that should be agreed upon and presented before the 2013 outdoor season. Think PGA more so than NASCAR.

4. Force the IOC's hand for the 2016 Olympics
If track and field comes as a united front, they can overturn rule #40, or at least change it to better accommodate the athletes. Track and field is arguably the centerpiece of Olympic competition and the athletes should be able to profit. The Olympics is 10 to 11-figure business and the athletes get almost nothing. This isn't 1912, or even 1984 for that matter. If getting paid is too much to ask, athletes should be able to promote their sponsors during the Olympics. That is why companies sponsor athletes that compete in "Olympic Sports." You must provide them some return on investment or they won't invest during those other four years. This is where Usain Bolt's leverage will help, as he has been the star of the past two Olympiads and certainly will be a focal point in Rio. Is the IOC going to turn him away? I doubt it.

5. Develop the Track Club system in an organized manner
When the Oregon Track Club was performing so well at the 2008 Olympic Trials, everyone wanted OTC gear. Shirts, singlets, warmups, etc. They are and excellent example of a well developed club with a well developed brand. The Oregon Project is starting to do the same. I keep waiting for Jerry Schumacher's group to officially brand itself "Rip City TC." Everyone in the union should join a club if they aren't on one already. It's an excellent marketing tool and almost demands that the IAAF allow that upper right hand logo. Remember how cool the Santa Monica Track Club was? MVP Track Club should have the same brand identity. They've got the two top sprinters in the world! I've never even seen a logo. The union could develop and promote international club championships where athletes only wear specially designed club gear. Those would be big bragging rights that would certainly entice TV outlets.

While I know these things won't happen overnight, I am hopeful. Things are materializing. If you need any help Khadevis, or want me to sit on a board, I'm here for you. I'll be happen to elaborate on any of these points in long form, just email me.

And with all this in mind, any step forward is a positive step, so lets get moving!

UPDATE: I went on The Runaround on ESPN Radio Baltimore on 10/1 with TFAA President, Khadevis Robinson, to discuss the union. Listen to the recording here.

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

Get in the Trailer

2012-09-17T16:33:00.000-04:00

I'm not just a writer, I am also a runner. At least I was once a runner. I didn't run a whole lot after high school, but picked it up again when I turned 30. Right as I was starting to see some success, the injury bug took over. A few weeks ago, I made the decision to get a cortisone shot in my plantar fascia. Best decision I ever made.

I discussed the ordeal at The Trailer. They even had an artist come in and add some incredible illustration to my tale.

If you are unfamiliar with The Trailer, it's an excellent new site that features the writing of my like-minded friend, Jon Gugala, as well as an excellent podcast that discusses the sport with an attitude that you won't get elsewhere.

Check out my article on The Trailer here!

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

Film Major: "We Grew Wings"

2012-08-29T09:52:00.000-04:00

Just about every American Track fan could tell you about Steve Prefontaine, Alberto Salazar, Bill Bowerman and the Men of Oregon. But how many could tell you about the Women of Oregon? "We Grew Wings" does that and is required viewing for any true fan of the sport.

Ellen Schmidt-Devlin produced the film and introduced it to the media at the Track and Field Writers Association breakfast during the Olympic Trials. It debuted that week at historic McDonald Theatre in Eugene and was released on DVD this week.

Schmidt-Devlin's film introduces many to the stars of the 1985 National Champion team and the early stars of the Oregon Women's program; including Grace Bakari, Claudette Groenendaal and Leann Warren. The film also underscores the 40th anniversary of Title IX and its positive effect on Women's Track and Field.

Prior to the film, I was unaware of Leann Warren's excellent career at Oregon and her surprise qualifying for the 1980 Olympic Team in the 1500. Like Christian Smith in 2008, she was one of the last in, and would qualify in the third spot behind the heavy favorite, Mary Decker (Slaney). Slaney would be featured in much of the film as well, as she told of when she was a 14 year old prodigy, Prefontaine himself took her under his wing and told her "if you want to be good, come to Oregon." She didn't attend the U of O, but now resides in Eugene.

English Gardner competes in the 100 meters at the
2012 Olympic Trials alongside Jeneba Tarmoh
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

The film also features the evolution of the Women's program at Oregon, specifically on the 2011 team and focuses on Jordan Hasay, Jamesha Youngblood and English Gardner. I had the pleasure of meeting Gardner's father on my flight from Charlotte to Portland this year before the trials and it was exciting to see her evolution as an athlete on film. Her and Youngblood are part of the "new Oregon" movement that includes more than just distance runners and are led by the sought after coach (and former Appalachian State star) Robert Johnson.

The film is very well done and is directed by the filmmakers of "Fire on the Track" and "There Is No Finish Line." As mentioned earlier, "We Grew Wings" is now for sale at Amazon.com and you can check out the film's website: WeGrewWings.com and follow the film on Twitter @WeGrewWings

Check out the trailer below:

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

Evan Jager runs fastest flat 3000 meters ever by an American Steepler

2012-08-17T17:20:00.000-04:00

Evan Jager; good over land and sea
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

Evan Jager's "absolutely incredible dream of a season"continued in Stockholm, Sweden today as he ran 7:35.16 for 3000 meters; becoming the 9th fastest American ever at the distance (video highlights here). More importantly, Jager became the fastest American ever that primarily runs the Steeplechase. This makes sense, as he set the American Record earlier in the season in Monaco, running 8:06.81 for the 3000 meter Steeplechase.

After the race, Jager told Flotrack's Kevin Liao "I'm very pleased with how it went. I'm really happy." Jager would finish 6th overall, as Kenya's Isiah Koech would take the win in 7:30.43.

Jager will now run a few 1500's to look to improve on his 3:38.33 PR from 2009.

Jager's company on the American All Time Top 10 list for the flat 3000 meters is a who's who of the best American distance runners ever. If he continues on at the pace he has this season, he'll be remembered in the same way.

Top 10 Americans All Time at 3000 Meters
1. 7:29.00 Bernard Lagat
2. 7:30.84 Bob Kennedy
3. 7:31.00 Matt Tegenkamp
4. 7:33.37 Sydney Maree
5. 7:33.45 Galen Rupp
6. 7:34.32 Chris Solinsky
7. 7:34.96 Adam Goucher
8. 7:35.08 Alan Webb
9. 7:35.16 Evan Jager
10. 7:35.32 Dathan Ritzenhein

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

Meb Keflezighi closes out a strong American showing in London

2012-08-12T20:29:00.001-04:00

Meb Keflezighi streams the flag down the homestretch
(photo: The Oregonian)

Going into the final "Athletics" event Sunday, the United States Track and Field Team had earned 29 medals; only one short of Doug Logan's lofty goal of 30. All eyes were on fan favorite, Ryan Hall, to compete and potentially get that 30th medal. Needless to say, that didn't happen. Hall, along with Abdi Abdirahman, would both drop out just after the 10 mile mark. The man that came in with little fanfare nearly delivered #30 to a man that's no longer in office.

The word on the street, specifically from Meb Keflezighi's longtime coach, Bob Larsen, was that Meb had been injured and that he was under trained. With that knowledge available, no one gave much of a shot to the 2004 Athens Silver Medalist. And sadly, once Hall and Abdi dropped, I feared Meb may too. Luckily, that outcome was not in the cards.

Instead, Keflezighi slowed worked his was way up from 17th at the halfway mark to 14th at 25k to 10th at 30k to 6th at 35k, and finally, to 4th at the finish line. He was never in medal contention and finished 1:29 behind third placer, Kenya's Wilson Kipsang, but his run further validated his return to glory, after a disappointing 2008 Olympic Marathon Trials, one where he would break his leg and finish 8th, off the Beijing Olympic Team.

A job well done for the veteran. One of many inspiring performances from the American distance squad at the 2012 London Olympics.

Here are a few more of my favorite American Distance Moments of the 2012 games:

Galen Rupp following his teammate, Mo Farah, to the promise land to earn a Silver Medal in the Men's 10,000 meters (story here).
Leo Manzano kicking furiously over the last 100 meters of the Men's 1500 to take the Silver Medal, while Matt Centrowitz battled to within .04 seconds of the Bronze (story here).
Duane Solomon (1:42.82) and Nick Symmonds (1:42.95) going 4,5 in the best 800 final of all time; one where David Rudisha would break the World Record (1:40.91).
Shannon Rowbury's strong rally for 6th in the Women's 1500; the same race where Morgan Uceny's fall made every distance running fan in America feel sick to their stomach.
Evan Jager finishing 6th and Donn Cabral 8th in the Men's 3000 meter Steeplechase. Strong runs by both in an event where the US hasn't done anything in a very long time.
Emma Coburn's continued improvement in the Women's 3000 meter Steeplechase. Her 9th place finish would net her another PR (9:23.54).
The Men's 5000. It's been a long while since the United States had three men in the final. All three held their own and a trip with 100 meters to go is the only thing that kept Bernard Lagat off the medal stand.
All three American's setting PR's in the Women's 10,000. Being your best on the biggest stage is what the Olympics are all about!

And if you're enjoying this Track & Field thing, DN Galan aka Diamond League Stockholm is this Friday, August 17th!

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

Leo Manzano, American Olympic Silver Medalist

2012-08-07T17:07:00.001-04:00

Leo Manzano took the Silver and Matt Centrowitz
was a very close 4th in the Olympic 1500 meters
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

The resurgence of American Distance Running is alive and well. First, Galen Rupp runs the race of his life for the Silver Medal in the 10,000, and now Leo Manzano has matched him in the controversial Men's 1500 meter final.

Manzano stormed the last 100 meters at a furious pace to close on eventual winner, Alegerian Taoufik Makhloufi, finishing second in 3:34.79, 0.71 second away from Gold. 2011 World Championship Bronze Medalist, Matt Centrowitz, wasn't far behind in fourth. He would finish just behind Morocco's Abdalaati Iguider in 3:35.17.

Makhloufi has been the talk of the games, with his unbelievable finishes through the rounds, and once again in the final tonight. He's also been infamous for his brief exit from the games for not trying in Monday's 800 prelims.

Put Makhloufi's name into Twitter and you will see another reaction; one that sends you down the Rashid Ramzi rabbit hole. Time will tell if these allegations are founded or misguided.

Regardless of speculation, a 2,4 finish in the Olympic 1500 final is phenomenal for the United States. We didn't have anyone in the Olympic final in 2008! Now we are keeping the Kenyans off the podium.

Well done guys.

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

Galen Rupp stole my voice

2012-08-04T18:33:00.004-04:00

Mo Farah takes gold, Galen Rupp takes silver and a dejected Kenenisa Bekele stares down at the track in defeat

It's a good thing I'm typing this and not telling you, because my voice is gone. Over the last 500 meters of that memorable Men's 10,000 meter Olympic Final, I yelled, I screamed, and I probably had my neighbors debating on whether or not to call the cops on the guy next door that has been getting up very early this weekend for some odd reason.

It was that good. No. That great. Inspiring for many and validating for Alberto Salazar and his Galen Rupp, ahem, Oregon Project.

For the English and the American fans out there, the race went about as well as it could have. Maybe even better. How did these two guys that train in Portland, Oregon beat up on back-to-back Olympic 10,000 Champion, Kenenisa Bekele? his brother Tariku? and a load of excellent Kenyans? A ton of hard work, that's how.

Now I wonder if Salazar will give them the night off. One would think that they earned it after the Pre Classic, when Farah took the 5000 win in 12:56.98 and Rupp would break the 13 minute for the first time in 12:58.90. No chance. Olympic Finals were their goal, not early June. After the meet ended and many of the journalists were finishing up their stories, Rupp and Farah emerged onto the track to rattle off eight 75 second laps before calling it a day. It wouldn't surprise me that after the fans file out of Olympic Stadium tonight, they'll do the same.

Post-race workouts like this have been more the standard and not the anomaly over the years, as Salazar has crafted Galen Rupp from wunderkind to world class. And think what you want, but adding Farah to train with Rupp over the past few years was just another piece to that puzzle. It has been extremely mutually beneficial to both.

And lucky for us, they'll be toeing the line again Wednesday, August 8th in the 5000 heats, and likely again in the 5000 final on Saturday, August 11th; the final day of track competition.

Bring it on!

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

Born-Again: Duane Solomon by Jon Gugala

2012-08-02T17:47:00.000-04:00

Duane Soloman gives the glory after making the
2012 United States Olympic Team at 800 meters
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

As we dawn on the Athletics portion of the 2012 Olympic Games, a new star has emerged in American Middle Distance running; Duane Solomon. Luckily, my friend Jon Gugala was able to catch up with him after his huge run in Monaco. Check out his story below and follow him @JonGugala

Born-Again
Duane Solomon was cute story at the Trials. But after Monaco he’s grown some teeth.

by Jon Gugala

Death by car in France can come at you from any direction. It doesn’t matter that there’s a little green man illuminated, beckoning you across the intersection, or that it’s a one-way street; as soon as you put one foot into the road, the other one had better be following it—and soon—because the squeal of tires is quick from the side you least expect. The French drive like assholes.

After spending an entire month traveling through the country for track meets, I found myself thinking about this, and what a friend said in January as she was training for the 2012 U.S. Olympic Team Trials. She said that the scary thing about an Olympic year is that it doesn’t matter about who’s been hanging around the previous three; athletes crawl out of the woodwork to contend for an Olympic spot, and you never know where they’re going to come from.

So was the case with Duane Solomon.

Solomon, of Los Angeles, Calif., was one of the Cinderella stories from the trials. Holding on for third in the Men’s 800-meters, he simultaneously broke the Olympic “A” standard of 1 minutes, 45.60 seconds (which he did not have) and PR’ed by almost a second. He would collapse on the rain-soaked track in tears, then embraced by his coach and American record-holder Johnny Gray. It was touching as hell.

Solomon and Coach Johnny Gray embrace at the trials
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

But just like all third-place Cinderella stories, you don’t expect much when it comes to the deep end of the pool, aka Olympic rounds, which start on August 6th. Solomon, just like the feel-good stories that came before him, would play his part by quietly bowing out in heats, and on his mantelpiece forever would be the time he was an Olympian.

Well, not so fast.

Because Solomon went to Europe. Solomon got into a Diamond League race. And then Solomon ran fast as hell.

Solomon didn’t just run fast in Monaco; he ran faster than any American in the last 15 years. He ran faster than every current American competitor, including five-time U.S. champ Nick Symmonds. With Solomon’s 1:43.44—almost two seconds faster than his PR set in 2010—he is now the fifth-fastest American ever at the distance. And that changes everything.

“I was talking to my coach the other day [and] we said the same thing,” Solomon says. “We didn’t expect that time, and we didn’t expect it to be now. We were going to be happy with a 1:44-anything. For me to go out there and perform like that, in that type of condition, I think it’s a good sign of what we can do in the Games.”

It was a race that shouldn’t have happened, he says: he’d just got to Europe, and both he and Gray estimated that the jet lag wouldn’t be conducive to a fast time. Monaco was just a rust-buster first race after the trials. But, he says, the feeling between his last race and Monaco was completely different.

“At the trials I was pretty tense because I knew it was all or nothing in that race,” Solomon says. “This race I went in with really no type of pressure. So I went in very relaxed and just basically stayed on the big dogs, on their shoulders, to test myself, [to] see what I could do.

“It’s kind of weird to say that, but running that time felt a lot easier than when I ran a 1:44.”

Solomon knows no one really expected it; he didn’t even expect it of himself. And now that it’s happened, he knows there will be those who consider it a fluke, a random pop off, never to be repeated. They’re the same people that won’t expect him to make it out of rounds, and “definitely not a medal contender,” he says. But that’s not what he and his coach think, and not what they thought even before it happened.

Solomon has won back-to-back
USATF Indoor 800 meter titles
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

“We always thought that we were going to have a chance to make the final, even when I ran my last race in Oregon,” he says. “But for me to do what I did now, and the time that I hit, and just how I looked in the race—how I felt in the race—I feel like that’s a big tell of what I can be."

“After running Monaco I think it solidifies that I’m legit and I can contend for a medal. I can get to the final and make something happen.”

What does this mean for the U.S.’s medal chances in the 800 meters? Solomon now has the fifth-fastest time in the world, and while Symmonds has been the medal favorite for so long, Solomon isn’t the heart-warming story any more—he’s just too fast. Solomon is the supplanter, and he could be the contender.

For Solomon, however, the best part is that there’s still no pressure. “It will be the same thing [as Monaco],” he says. “I don’t have to be a hero; I can just hang in there in the front”—just as before—“and then use my strength and my speed."

“Everyone has up and down years, and I definitely had my times, but just to break that barrier was awesome,” he says. “I’m a lot more motivated. I’m disciplined. I’m a changed runner.”

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

Kip Litton article entitled "Marathon Man" published today in The New Yorker

2012-07-30T06:59:00.000-04:00

I woke at 5:30am this morning before my usual Monday flight to LaGuardia to read the article that has been a year in the making; "Marathon Man."

It's an excellent piece from The New Yorker's Mark Singer on good ole Kip Litton. If you are on this blog, you've likely read my piece on Litton from January 2011: "The Outing of Kip Litton". Singer's article takes my findings to a new level and evokes the Stephen Glass New Republic scandal from 1998.

A summary of the article is here and there's a podcast companion piece. But if you would like to read the whole article and don't subscribe to The New Yorker, ~~email me and I'll send you the 12-page PDF~~ it is now available in its entirety online!

It's an excellent piece and from trading emails with Singer, I can tell you he was as enthralled as the many Let's Run Message Board posters.

My favorite part of the article is that Singer arranged to meet with Litton after the 2012 Boston Marathon, as both of his sons would be running. Litton was a no show. Singer countered by showing up at Litton's office in Michigan the next day! Ballsy and awesome. He finally did get a sit down with Litton, at Wendy's of all places, and discusses it on the podcast; a must listen after reading the article.

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com (even subscribe to The New Yorker)

Taking the temperature of the US Olympic Distance Squad a week before Athletics begin

2012-07-27T10:29:00.002-04:00

Shalane Flanagan got to wear the flag in 2008. Will any American
Distance Runners get that opportunity in 2012?

Track and Field at the 2012 Olympic Games starts one week from today (check out the schedule here).

How's are the United States Distance Team doing going into the games?

Below is an update about what each American athlete has been up to since the trials and who has a true MEDAL CHANCE, a DARKHORSE medal opportunity, and then sadly, those who may not by ready to roll due to injury (HURT ALERT).

Men's 800
1. Nick Symmonds - MEDAL CHANCE
Ran a near PR 800 in Monaco in 1:43.78, then ran a tune up 400 in Ireland in 47.45. Symmonds looks to be fit and has run rounds well. No doubt he'll be gunning for a medal after coming in 5th in Daegu last year. Abubaker Kaki's recent demise helps him, but it will take an A+ effort to make the podium.

2. Khadevis Robinson - DARKHORSE
KD ran great at the trials, but hasn't run since. Making the final should be his number one goal. If he can do that, he's capable of top five or better, especially with his run from behind and kick from 300 out tactic, that he's employed over the last two seasons.

Saucony has made custom spikes for #5 All Time American
in the 800, Duane Solomon

3. Duane Solomon - DARKHORSE
His phenomenal 1:43.44 PR in Monaco shows he is at the top of his game. Solomon, like KD, has changed his style from frontrunner to "run right behind the leader" and it's paid off well. His goal should be making the final, and then going from there. Like KD, and Symmonds for that matter, he's got a great shot if he's on the line for the final on Thursday, August 9th. One side note; neither Abraham Kipchirchir Rotich or Leonard Kirwa Kosencha, both of Kenya, who beat Solomon in Monaco, are running in London.

Women's 800
1. Alysia Montano - MEDAL CHANCE
Monaco was good, but not great for Montano. She ran 1:59.05 for third, but looked to be in better shape at the trials. Maybe it was just her international rust buster. She likes to front run, which can be disastrous, but she's too good not to make the final. From there, I'm sure she'd like to improve on her 4th place finish from Daegu last year.

2. Geena Gall
"OMG Opening Ceremonies is tonight!!!!" was a recent tweet from Gall. This is her first rodeo and she leads the clubhouse in the potentially "happy to be here" division. Will she be ready? She ran 2:01.65 at Crystal Palace, so she'll have to return to her Olympic Trials form to make it past the semifinal (it took 1:58.61 to make the final in '08).

3. Alice Schmidt
Schmidt's added strength training this year led to a PR and A Standard in the 1500 at Prefontaine. She barely missed the final in Daegu last year. That will be her goal for London. Read the 5 Questions with Schmidt feature here.

Hopefully this Manzano will show up in London
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

Men's 1500
1. Leo Manzano - DARKHORSE
Known for his hot and cold racing habits, Manzano has been hot all year, except for two weeks ago at Crystal Palace. Hopefully one poor showing isn't a sign of where he is right now. Manzano's kick is medal-worthy and if he runs like he did at the trials, that's a possibility.

2. Matt Centrowitz - DARKHORSE
A poor 800 at Crystal Palace led to a withdrawal at Monaco. He ran much better at the Morton Games a few days ago, winning the 800 in 1:47.72. Centro rounds into shape fast and runs rounds well. If he can time this right, he'll hope to finish on the podium again, like he did in Daegu.

3. Andrew Wheating - HURT ALERT
A few days ago, "Britain's Athletics International" said that Wheating had withdrawn from the games. That looked to be false information, but Wheating has been hurt and had to withdraw from Monaco with a flaring up of plantar fasciitis. Let's hope he's ready to go, but I wouldn't put too much stock in him going beyond the semis if this continues to be an issue (it took 3:37.77 to make the final in Beijing)

Uceny will lead a strong 3 in the 1500
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

Women's 1500
1. Morgan Uceny - MEDAL CHANCE
Uceny hasn't looked quite as strong as last year. The devastating kick that she displayed all of 2011, save Daegu, hasn't been there. Maybe by design. Her, Shannon Rowbury and Jenny Simpson all looked good, but not great, at Crystal Palace, but I'm sure she and her coach, Terrence Mahon, have been trying to time her peak for the games. We'll see if it works; as if it does, she's a podium threat.

2. Shannon Rowbury - DARKHORSE
No stranger to the medal stand, Rowbury has been overshadowed by Uceny and Simpson over the past two seasons. She's a smart racer most certainly will make the final. After that, she'll need a big race, but like Simpson last year, is capable of medaling if things go her way.

3. Jenny Simpson - MEDAL CHANCE
Last year's 1500 meter World Champ hasn't shown that kind of form yet, but we know it's there. She's run under 4:00 in the event and has as good of 100 meter speed as anyone if it comes down to the last straightaway.

Man of the hour, Evan Jager
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

Men's 3000 Steeplechase
1. Evan Jager - MEDAL CHANCE
What's he done since the trials? Only set the American Record in the Steeple in an incredible time of 8:06.81. He also launched himself into the medal conversation. Maybe it's too soon, but maybe not. This event was made for Jager and he's taking full advantage of the opportunity. Look for him to contend on Friday, August 3rd (semifinal) and Sunday, August 5th (final).

2. Donn Cabral
The 2012 Princeton grad recently ran a PR of 3:40.03 for 1500 meters in Lignano, and then four days later, ran a flat 3000 PR of 7:53.48 in Szczecin. His smart racing style should land him in the final (it took 8:23.66 in Beijing). After that, top 10 would be an excellent goal. Read the 5 Questions with Cabral feature here.

3. Kyle Alcorn
If you saw Alcorn at the trials, you know he left it all out there to make the team. He'll have to do the same to make the final in London. He's got a great kick, which will bode well in a kickers race. Read the 5 Questions with Alcorn feature here.

Women's 3000 Steeplechase
1. Emma Coburn - DARKHORSE
Yet to be truly challenged this season, Coburn should thrive in London. She tuned up this week with a 4:33.24 Mile in Ireland. It took 9:17.16 to make the podium in Daegu last year. Coburn has run 9:25.28, but is certainly on the rise.

2. Bridget Franek
Franek looked excellent at Crystal Palace, running a PR of 9:29.53. She just missed the final in Daegu last year, but should be ready to run faster than the 9:40.04 it took to make the final then. Read the 5 Questions with Franek feature here (note: from before the trials).

3. Shalaya Kipp
Like Gall, hopefully Kipp won't fall into the potentially "happy to be here" mode and will compete. In the same Morton Mile as Coburn, Kipp managed only a 4:40.31, but is "hungry for more." She's certainly capable of making the final, but her best shot at the medal stand will be at 2016 or 2020.

Rupp, Lagat and Lomong will all have a shot at 5000
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

Men's 5000
1. Galen Rupp - MEDAL CHANCE
While Rupp's training partner, Mo Farah, ran in front of his home crowd at Crystal Palace, Rupp has been silent. I don't think anyone has any doubts he'll be ready to roll when the 5000 semifinal goes off on Wednesday, August 8th.

2. Bernard Lagat - MEDAL CHANCE
Not too much should be taken from Lagat's 3:54.17 Mile at Crystal Palace. It was an alright tune up race. Like Rupp, Lagat is a veteran that will be ready to go for the semis and will exhaust just enough energy to make the final. Gold is on his mind, but a podium finish would be a victory for him and America.

3. Lopez Lomong - DARKHORSE
Lomong won't have the hoopla that comes with being a flag bearer this year. In '08, he didn't make it out of the semifinal in the 1500. He should make it out of the semifinal and then could surprise in the final. He's run very few 5000's, but has run them all well. It took 13:06.22 to medal in Beijing, and will likely take faster in London.

Women's 5000
1. Julie Culley
Culley's kick at the trials was phenomenal. She'll need to channel that and more to make it to the final in London. Her 15:13.77 in Eugene and 8:45.57 3000 in Monaco show she is capable of the 15:15.12 that it took to make the final in 2008.

2. Molly Huddle
How fit is Huddle? We're not really sure. She's battled injury since her 14:44.76 American Record in 2010. Could she be rounding into shape? She didn't make it out of the heats in Daegu, so priority number one will be that.

Conley should feel like this if she
can make the 5000 final
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

3. Kim Conley
"Conley's definitely not just 'happy to be here.' This is the freaking Olympic Games. You can't simply coast in and show up," says her Coach Drew Wartenburg. "Training/prep is going well." She's got absolutely nothing to lose. She ran the race of her life to make it and secured a deal with New Balance in the process. Things are looking up. They'd be even more exciting if Conley could find that same magic to make the final. She won her tune up race in Cork, so it's possible!

Men's 10,000
1. Galen Rupp - MEDAL CHANCE
What seems to be Rupp's signature event will be the first on his schedule. The gun will go off next Saturday, August 4th for his run at the medal stand. It will be tough beating his teammate, Mo Farah, but everyone else is beatable, including Keninisa Bekele. He'll need to have the kick of his life to medal, but that's what he and his coach, Alberto Salazar, have been training his whole life for.

2. Matt Tegenkamp
Teg's run at the trials was inspiring. After looked washed up at Pre, he rebounded and looked in control the whole way. Keep in mind, he's only run four 10,000's ever. His 10th place finish at Daegu last year was good, but I'm sure he wants more, as he finished 4th in Osaka in the 5000 in 2007. Top 7-8 is likely where he'll fall if he runs a strong race.

3. Dathan Ritzenhein
Ritz seems to be on the upswing. His 13:15.91 in the rain at Crystal Palace was another positive step towards his comeback to the track (although he's running the Chicago Marathon this fall). Can he hang on to the front pack? It's going to be tough, but I would think a top 7-8 finish, like Teg, for Ritz is doable.

Brooks made custom shoes for Amy Hastings & Desi Davila
(photo: Amy Hastings Twitter)

Women's 10,000
1. Amy Hastings
One of the best stories of the trials was Amy Hastings breaking through and winning the 10,000, after finishing a disappointing 4th at the Marathon Trials. It will be near impossible to make the podium, but a top 7 finish should be possible, based on Daegu's results.

2. Lisa Uhl
Like Huddle, Uhl has been injured and it's hard to know what to expect from her. She hasn't raced since the trials, so we'll see what happens a week from today!

3. Janet Cherobon-Bawcom
JCB mentioned in her interview with me that she was "so sick in Eugene that I can't even pretend that I had a strategy." Hopefully she's feeling better now and will compete! Read the 5 Questions with JCB feature here.

Men's Marathon
1. Meb Keflezighi - HURT ALERT
While Meb has been busy on television running around in Citibank commercials, it sounds like he isn't ready for London. A hamstring injury seems to have set him back in his training, but he was the 2004 Olympic Silver Medalist, so he'll put forth his best effort.

2. Ryan Hall - DARKHORSE
In early June, Hall looked abysmal at the Rock 'n' Roll San Diego Half Marathon, getting his butt kicked by Meb. He's done this before, but never this slow. News came out that he'd had a bad case of plantar fasciitis that was hindering his training. That seems to be in the past now, but will he be ready for the world's best? I know he wants to rebound from his 10th place finish in Beijing. Expect him to contend for as long as he can on the last day of athletics, Sunday, August 11th.

Abdi hopes to airplane some people in London
(photo: The Oregonian)

3. Abdi Abdirahman
The Black Cactus is always a question mark. He could contend for the podium or he could finish 25th. It's hard to say until the race gets going. He'll likely be running in Nike's new Flyknit Racers and he "had a good workout at the track" on July 25.

Women's Marathon
1. Shalane Flanagan - MEDAL CHANCE
If you needed more of a reason to watch the Women's Marathon on Sunday, August 5th, Flanagan is it. Her surprise bronze medal finish in the Beijing 10,000 only whet her appetite for her chances in the marathon. She'll contend. Just watch.

2. Desi Davila - HURT ALERT
News has come out recently that Davila has been injured and could potenially not start next Sunday, August 5th. Let's hope she can find a way to go. The marathon is a tough event to go into half-cocked, but Davila is one of the toughest out there.

3. Kara Goucher - DARKHORSE
She surprised many with her podium finish at the trials and has been training well by all accounts. She could surprise again in London if people crash and burn, as she'll likely take a more balanced approach.

Agree? Disagree? Got some information I missed? Feel free to comment or email me something I left out.

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

2012 London Olympics Track and Field Schedule (with US Time Zones)

2012-07-22T20:46:00.000-04:00

The Olympics start Wednesday and along with the coverage on NBC, there are the NBC Olympics and the Live Extra Apps. Live Extra is also available online. TV times are here.

No matter where you live in the United States, here is when each event will take place live. I'll link with results from IAAF's Olympic Coverage page as they happen.

2012 London Olympic Games Athletics Schedule

Friday, August 3:
Morning Session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Men’s Shot Put Qualification	10:00 AM	2:00 AM	3:00 AM	4:00 AM	5:00 AM
Women’s 100 Hurdles (Heptathlon)	10:05 AM	2:05 AM	3:05 AM	4:05 AM	5:05 AM
Women’s Triple Jump Qualification	10:25 AM	2:25 AM	3:25 AM	4:25 AM	5:25 AM
Women’s 100 Prelims	10:40 AM	2:40 AM	3:40 AM	4:40 AM	5:40 AM
Men’s 400 Hurdles Prelims	11:15 AM	3:15 AM	4:15 AM	5:15 AM	6:15 AM
Women’s High Jump (Heptathlon)	11:15 AM	3:15 AM	4:15 AM	5:15 AM	6:15 AM
Men’s Hammer Qualification	11:20 AM	3:20 AM	4:20 AM	5:20 AM	6:20 AM
Women’s 400 Prelims	12:00 PM	4:00 AM	5:00 AM	6:00 AM	7:00 AM
Men’s Hammer Qualification	12:45 PM	4:45 AM	5:45 AM	6:45 AM	7:45 AM
Men’s 3000 Steeplechase Semifinal	1:00 PM	5:00 AM	6:00 AM	7:00 AM	8:00 AM

Afternoon session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Women’s Shot Put (Heptathlon)	7:00 PM	11:00 AM	12:00 PM	1:00 PM	2:00 PM
Women’s 100 Prelims	7:05 PM	11:05 AM	12:05 PM	1:05 PM	2:05 PM
Women’s Discus Qualification	7:10 PM	11:10 AM	12:10 PM	1:10 PM	2:10 PM
Men’s Long Jump Qualification	7:50 PM	11:50 AM	12:50 PM	1:50 PM	2:50 PM
Men’s 1500 Prelims	8:05 PM	12:05 PM	1:05 PM	2:05 PM	3:05 PM
Men’s Shot Put Final	8:30 PM	12:30 PM	1:30 PM	2:30 PM	3:30 PM
Women’s Discus Qualification	8:35 PM	12:35 PM	1:35 PM	2:35 PM	3:35 PM
Women’s 200 (Heptathlon)	8:45 PM	12:45 PM	1:45 PM	2:45 PM	3:45 PM
Women’s 10,000 Final	9:25 PM	1:25 PM	2:25 PM	3:25 PM	4:25 PM

Saturday, August 4:
Morning session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Men’s 100 Prelims	10:00 AM	2:00 AM	3:00 AM	4:00 AM	5:00 AM
Women’s Long Jump (Heptathlon)	10:05 AM	2:05 AM	3:05 AM	4:05 AM	5:05 AM
Women’s Pole Vault Qualification	10:20 AM	2:20 AM	3:20 AM	4:20 AM	5:20 AM
Men’s 400 Prelims	10:35 AM	2:35 AM	3:35 AM	4:35 AM	5:35 AM
Women’s 3000 Steeplechase Semifinal	11:35 AM	3:35 AM	4:35 AM	5:35 AM	6:35 AM
Women’s Javelin (Heptathlon)	11:40 AM	3:40 AM	4:40 AM	5:40 AM	6:40 AM
Men’s 100 Prelims	12:30 PM	4:30 AM	5:30 AM	6:30 AM	7:30 AM
Women’s Javelin (Heptathlon)	12:55 PM	4:55 AM	5:55 AM	6:55 AM	7:55 AM

Afternoon session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Men’s 20k Race Walk Final	5:00 PM	9:00 AM	10:00 AM	11:00 AM	12:00 PM
Men’s 400 Hurdles Semifinal	7:00 PM	11:00 AM	12:00 PM	1:00 PM	2:00 PM
Women’s Discus Final	7:30 PM	11:30 AM	12:30 PM	1:30 PM	2:30 PM
Women’s 100 Semifinal	7:35 PM	11:35 AM	12:35 PM	1:35 PM	2:35 PM
Men’s Long Jump Final	7:55 PM	11:55 AM	12:55 PM	1:55 PM	2:55 PM
Women’s 400 Semifinal	8:05 PM	12:05 PM	1:05 PM	2:05 PM	3:05 PM
Women’s 800 (Heptathlon)	8:35 PM	12:35 PM	1:35 PM	2:35 PM	3:35 PM
Men’s 10,000 Final	9:15 PM	1:15 PM	2:15 PM	3:15 PM	4:15 PM
Women’s 100 Final	9:55 PM	1:55 PM	2:55 PM	3:55 PM	4:55 PM

Sunday, August 5:
Morning session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Women’s Marathon Final	11:00 AM	3:00 AM	4:00 AM	5:00 AM	6:00 AM

Afternoon session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Women’s 400 Hurdles Prelims	7:00 PM	11:00 AM	12:00 PM	1:00 PM	2:00 PM
Men’s High Jump Qualification	7:05 PM	11:05 AM	12:05 PM	1:05 PM	2:05 PM
Women’s Triple Jump Final	7:35 PM	11:35 AM	12:35 PM	1:35 PM	2:35 PM
Men’s 100 Semifinal	7:45 PM	11:45 AM	12:45 PM	1:45 PM	2:45 PM
Men’s 1500 Semifinal	8:15 PM	12:15 PM	1:15 PM	2:15 PM	3:15 PM
Men’s Hammer Final	8:20 PM	12:20 PM	1:20 PM	2:20 PM	3:20 PM
Men’s 400 Semifinal	8:40 PM	12:40 PM	1:40 PM	2:40 PM	3:40 PM
Women’s 400 Final	9:10 PM	1:10 PM	2:10 PM	3:10 PM	4:10 PM
Men’s 3000 Steeplechase Final	9:25 PM	1:25 PM	2:25 PM	3:25 PM	4:25 PM
Men’s 100 Final	9:50 PM	1:50 PM	2:50 PM	3:50 PM	4:50 PM

Monday, August 6:
Morning session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Men’s Discus Qualification	10:00 AM	2:00 AM	3:00 AM	4:00 AM	5:00 AM
Women’s 100 Hurdles Prelims	10:05 AM	2:05 AM	3:05 AM	4:05 AM	5:05 AM
Women’s Shot Put Qualification	10:45 AM	2:45 AM	3:45 AM	4:45 AM	5:45 AM
Men’s 800 Prelims	10:50 AM	2:50 AM	3:50 AM	4:50 AM	5:50 AM
Men’s Discus Qualification	11:25 AM	3:25 AM	4:25 AM	5:25 AM	6:25 AM
Women’s 1500 Prelims	11:45 AM	3:45 AM	4:45 AM	5:45 AM	6:45 AM

Afternoon session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Women’s Pole Vault Final	7:00 PM	11:00 AM	12:00 PM	1:00 PM	2:00 PM
Women’s Shot Put Final	7:15 PM	11:15 AM	12:15 PM	1:15 PM	2:15 PM
Women’s 200 Prelims	7:20 PM	11:20 AM	12:20 PM	1:20 PM	2:20 PM
Women’s 400 Hurdles Semifinal	8:15 PM	12:15 PM	1:15 PM	2:15 PM	3:15 PM
Men’s 400 Hurdles Final	8:45 PM	12:45 PM	1:45 PM	2:45 PM	3:45 PM
Women’s 3000 Steeplechase Final	9:05 PM	1:05 PM	2:05 PM	3:05 PM	4:05 PM
Men’s 400 Final	9:30 PM	1:30 PM	2:30 PM	3:30 PM	4:30 PM

Tuesday, August 7:
Morning session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Women’s Javelin Qualification	10:00 AM	2:00 AM	3:00 AM	4:00 AM	5:00 AM
Men’s 110 Hurdles Prelims	10:10 AM	2:10 AM	3:10 AM	4:10 AM	5:10 AM
Men’s Triple Jump Qualification	10:45 AM	2:45 AM	3:45 AM	4:45 AM	5:45 AM
Women’s 5000 Semifinal	10:55 AM	2:55 AM	3:55 AM	4:55 AM	5:55 AM
Women’s Javelin Qualification	11:25 AM	3:25 AM	4:25 AM	5:25 AM	6:25 AM
Men’s 200 Prelims	11:50 AM	3:50 AM	4:50 AM	5:50 AM	6:50 AM

Afternoon session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Men’s High Jump Final	7:00 PM	11:00 AM	12:00 PM	1:00 PM	2:00 PM
Women’s Long Jump Qualification	7:05 PM	11:05 AM	12:05 PM	1:05 PM	2:05 PM
Women’s 100 Hurdles Semifinal	7:15 PM	11:15 AM	12:15 PM	1:15 PM	2:15 PM
Men’s Discus Final	7:45 PM	11:45 AM	12:45 PM	1:45 PM	2:45 PM
Men’s 800 Semifinal	7:55 PM	11:55 AM	12:55 PM	1:55 PM	2:55 PM
Women’s 200 Semifinal	8:25 PM	12:25 PM	1:25 PM	2:25 PM	3:25 PM
Women’s 100 Hurdles Final	9:00 PM	1:00 PM	2:00 PM	3:00 PM	4:00 PM
Men’s 1500 Final	9:15 PM	1:15 PM	2:15 PM	3:15 PM	4:15 PM

Wednesday, August 8:
Morning session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Men’s Pole Vault Qualification	10:00 AM	2:00 AM	3:00 AM	4:00 AM	5:00 AM
Women’s Hammer Qualification	10:00 AM	2:00 AM	3:00 AM	4:00 AM	5:00 AM
Men’s 100 (Decathlon)	10:10 AM	2:10 AM	3:10 AM	4:10 AM	5:10 AM
Men’s 5000 Semifinal	10:45 AM	2:45 AM	3:45 AM	4:45 AM	5:45 AM
Men’s Long Jump (Decathlon)	11:10 AM	3:10 AM	4:10 AM	5:10 AM	6:10 AM
Women’s Hammer Qualification	11:25 AM	3:25 AM	4:25 AM	5:25 AM	6:25 AM
Women’s 800 Prelims	11:35 AM	3:35 AM	4:35 AM	5:35 AM	6:35 AM
Men’s Shot Put (Decathlon)	12:50 PM	4:50 AM	5:50 AM	6:50 AM	7:50 AM

Afternoon session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Men’s High Jump (Decathlon)	6:00 PM	10:00 AM	11:00 AM	12:00 PM	1:00 PM
Men’s Javelin Qualification	7:05 PM	11:05 AM	12:05 PM	1:05 PM	2:05 PM
Men’s 110 Hurdles Semifinal	7:15 PM	11:15 AM	12:15 PM	1:15 PM	2:15 PM
Women’s 1500 Semifinal	7:45 PM	11:45 AM	12:45 PM	1:45 PM	2:45 PM
Women’s Long Jump Final	8:05 PM	12:05 PM	1:05 PM	2:05 PM	3:05 PM
Men’s 200 Semifinal	8:10 PM	12:10 PM	1:10 PM	2:10 PM	3:10 PM
Men’s Javelin Qualification	8:35 PM	12:35 PM	1:35 PM	2:35 PM	3:35 PM
Women’s 400 Hurdles Final	8:45 PM	12:45 PM	1:45 PM	2:45 PM	3:45 PM
Women’s 200 Final	9:00 PM	1:00 PM	2:00 PM	3:00 PM	4:00 PM
Men’s 110 Hurdles Final	9:15 PM	1:15 PM	2:15 PM	3:15 PM	4:15 PM
Men’s 400 (Decathlon)	9:30 PM	1:30 PM	2:30 PM	3:30 PM	4:30 PM

Thursday, August 9:
Morning session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Men’s 110 Hurdles (Decathlon)	9:00 AM	1:00 AM	2:00 AM	3:00 AM	4:00 AM
Women’s High Jump Qualification	9:30 AM	1:30 AM	2:30 AM	3:30 AM	4:30 AM
Men’s Discus (Decathlon)	9:55 AM	1:55 AM	2:55 AM	3:55 AM	4:55 AM
Men’s 4x400 Relay semifinal	11:35 AM	3:35 AM	4:35 AM	5:35 AM	6:35 AM
Men’s Pole Vault (Decathlon)	12:55 PM	4:55 AM	5:55 AM	6:55 AM	7:55 AM

Afternoon session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Men’s Javelin (Decathlon)	6:30 PM	10:30 AM	11:30 AM	12:30 PM	1:30 PM
Men’s Triple Jump Final	7:20 PM	11:20 AM	12:20 PM	1:20 PM	2:20 PM
Women’s 800 Semifinal	7:30 PM	11:30 AM	12:30 PM	1:30 PM	2:30 PM
Men’s Javelin (Decathlon)	7:40 PM	11:40 AM	12:40 PM	1:40 PM	2:40 PM
Men’s 800 Final	8:00 PM	12:00 PM	1:00 PM	2:00 PM	3:00 PM
Women’s 4x100 Relay Semifinal	8:20 PM	12:20 PM	1:20 PM	2:20 PM	3:20 PM
Men’s 200 Final	8:55 PM	12:55 PM	1:55 PM	2:55 PM	3:55 PM
Women’s Javelin Final	9:00 PM	1:00 PM	2:00 PM	3:00 PM	4:00 PM
Men’s 1500 (Decathlon)	9:20 PM	1:20 PM	2:20 PM	3:20 PM	4:20 PM

Friday, August 10:
Afternoon session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Men’s Pole Vault Final	7:00 PM	11:00 AM	12:00 PM	1:00 PM	2:00 PM
Women’s 4x400 Relay Semifinal	7:10 PM	11:10 AM	12:10 PM	1:10 PM	2:10 PM
Women’s Hammer Final	7:35 PM	11:35 AM	12:35 PM	1:35 PM	2:35 PM
Men’s 4x100 Relay Semifinal	7:45 PM	11:45 AM	12:45 PM	1:45 PM	2:45 PM
Women’s 5000 Final	8:05 PM	12:05 PM	1:05 PM	2:05 PM	3:05 PM
Women’s 4x100 Relay Final	8:40 PM	12:40 PM	1:40 PM	2:40 PM	3:40 PM
Women’s 1500 Final	8:55 PM	12:55 PM	1:55 PM	2:55 PM	3:55 PM
Men’s 4x400 Relay Final	9:20 PM	1:20 PM	2:20 PM	3:20 PM	4:20 PM

Saturday, August 11:
Morning session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Men’s 50k Race Walk Final	9:00 AM	1:00 AM	2:00 AM	3:00 AM	4:00 AM

Afternoon session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Women’s 20k Race Walk Final	5:00 PM	9:00 AM	10:00 AM	11:00 AM	12:00 PM
Women’s High Jump Final	7:00 PM	11:00 AM	12:00 PM	1:00 PM	2:00 PM
Men’s Javelin Final	7:20 PM	11:20 AM	12:20 PM	1:20 PM	2:20 PM
Men’s 5000 Final	7:30 PM	11:30 AM	12:30 PM	1:30 PM	2:30 PM
Women’s 800 Final	8:00 PM	12:00 PM	1:00 PM	2:00 PM	3:00 PM
Women’s 4x400 Relay Final	8:25 PM	12:25 PM	1:25 PM	2:25 PM	3:25 PM
Men’s 4x100 Relay Final	9:00 PM	1:00 PM	2:00 PM	3:00 PM	4:00 PM

Sunday, August 12:
Morning session	London	Pacific	Mountain	Central	Eastern
Men’s Marathon Final	11:00 AM	3:00 AM	4:00 AM	5:00 AM	6:00 AM

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

5 Questions with Genevieve LaCaze

2012-07-18T16:44:00.003-04:00

Genevieve LaCaze was a star at Florida
(photo: Gamedayr)

Today we have our fourth 2012 London Olympics Steepler for 5 Questions with. She's not American, but this tremendous Australian athlete has large ties to the US, as she just capped off an excellent collegiate career at the University of Florida and just signed on with an agent to run professionally.

Genevieve LaCaze had a great collegiate outdoor season, but it got better the week after, when she ran below the Olympic A Standard in the Steeplechase at the American Milers Club High Performance Series in Indianapolis, IN. Unfortunately, it was after Australia had already set their deadline. Luckily, her fans (and family) took to the internet and helped remedy the situation. With the groundswell of support, Athletics Australia overturned their initial decision and #LetLaCazeRun. Follow her on Twitter @GenGen_LaCaze and on Instagram @Gen_Gen_LaCaze

5 Questions with Genevieve LaCaze

1. Writing About Running: Congrats on being selected to the Australian Olympic Team. How much it mean to have all your fans rally around your potential bid?

Genevieve LaCaze: It meant more than I ever could have imagined. You sometimes don't realize the love and support you truly have til something like this takes place. I have an amazing support system, and I guess social media today really helped me out!

2. Writing About Running: You ran the Olympic A Standard at the American Milers Club High Performance Series a week after NCAA's. Did you feel you had that kind of performance in you and what were your immediate thoughts when you hit the A after Australia had set their deadline?

Genevieve LaCaze: I was very lucky to have been approached immediately after my NCAA final by Total Sports (my agency today) because if it wasn't for them, I would have never even known about that race. I was 100% positive I was capable of the time. I had said it all season, I just couldn't get into the right race to allow me to do so. I wrote the splits down on my hand and convinced myself there was no way I shouldn't be hitting them. When I crossed that line in 9 minutes and 41 seconds it was a big sigh of relief but I knew that was only half the battle.

3. Writing About Running: You're from Queensland, Australia, but ran at the University of Florida. How did you end up there?

Genevieve LaCaze: There were a few Aussies in the US before me that I think helped with getting my name out to be recruited however I was never a big fan about coming over initially. When they say parents know best, it isn't a myth. My parents forced that move on me 4 years ago and to this day I will never be able to thank them enough. I love USA.

LaCaze with her first shipment from New Balance Running
(via Instagram)

4. Writing About Running: New Balance recently signed you to a professional contract. How did all of that come together?

Genevieve LaCaze: Again, Total Sports has helped me out there and dealt with all the behind the scenes work. I met with New Balance while in Eugene watching the US Olympic Trials and I am definitely very honored to be onboard with Team New Balance.

5. Writing About Running: You're now onto the next step as a full time runner. What are your plans leading up to the Olympics?

Genevieve LaCaze: I am currently in Teddington, just outside London, training with a few other Aussie athletes. I will head over to Dublin, Ireland for a mile, but that is all I'll be doing before the big one!

And we had one last bonus question...

Writing About Running: Is the Olympic Tattoo on Instagram real?

LaCaze: Haha, you bet. I am digging quite a hole for myself because some particular family members don't know yet but as I said earlier, social media power will let the cat out of the bag in time, if not already....

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

5 Questions with Michael Tolcher

2012-07-16T08:21:00.000-04:00

Michael Tolcher was a runner before hitting the stage as a musician

Today, we skew from the norm at 5 Questions with. When I worked in the music business from 2000-2005, I remember this guy coming up. He opened for every big act out there and seemingly was playing seven shows a week all over the country. "How does he have the endurance to keep this up?" I thought. Well, turns out he was a pretty decent runner as well. He's also a big fan of the sport.

Michael Tolcher's debut major label album "I Am" was released May 4, 2004 and he's been on the road ever since. Before that, he was a State Champion runner at Lovejoy High in Georgia and went on to run in college, before taking up a career as a musician. He planned his most recent tour around the Olympic Trials and spent half the week at Hayward and the other half at the Wild Duck Cafe. Check out his website and follow him on Twitter @MichaelTolcher

5 Questions with Michael Tolcher

1. Writing About Running: People may know Michael Tolcher the musician, but can you tell us about your running roots at Lovejoy High, the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and Georgia Tech?

Michael Tolcher: Well, I once dreamed of being an Olympian too - I had run off and on as a kid (county record for 100 yard dash for 11-12-haha!). I loved track in high school. Winning the 3200 meters at state my senior year enabled me to run in college. I went to UTC because I loved the mountains in Chattanooga and the coach there was very cool. Then I thought I was more of a fit for Atlanta, so I transferred to Georgia Tech my sophmore year.

I focused on the steeple and 1500 meters. I soon realized I was a better singer, and that it hurt alot less!

2. Writing About Running: You were all over the place for the trials. How'd you end up making it to Eugene and how was your stay?

Michael Tolcher: Yea, what a blast that was! I was putting together my touring schedule in January, and purposely routed it through Eugene for the trials. I had always wanted to go...and this year I really wanted to see Wallace Spearmon light up the track. He's very inspiring as an athlete and as a person. I think he's the man to beat in the 200 meters.

3. Writing About Running: With all the excitement at the trials, what were your favorite moments on and off the track?

Michael Tolcher: On the Track: Well, of course the 200 meter final ... the Womens High Jump and Javelin, Men's 1500... both Men's hurdle events were super exciting. Off the track: I enjoyed the late nights at the Duck - meeting Maggie Vessey wasn't half bad (the feeling was mutual).

4. Writing About Running: Runners need the next "Born to Run" or "Runnin' Down a Dream." You seem like the guy for the job. Have you thought to write the quintessential running song, and how much of your music comes from your passion for the sport?

Michael Tolcher: Haha. Good point! I'm gonna wrap my head around it now... maybe belt it out in London.

I think running all those years built up my lungs for singing! Actually, putting on a show is a lot like a race. I approach shows similarly; psych myself up, clear my mind, and give it everything I got! I'm gonna be training for the 1500 meters again for fun. Who knows what songs will come about during that endeavor. Hopefully a Track & Field hit!

5. Writing About Running: What are your predictions for Team USA's performance in London?

Michael Tolcher: Hmmm. Tons of gold! Wallace, Angelo, LaShawn, Tolcher - I really hope I make one of the relay teams! Oh yea...and Will Claye, the grasshopper!

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

5 Questions with Sheila Reid

2012-07-13T08:44:00.001-04:00

Sheila Reid leads future Olympians Kim Conley and
Molly Huddle at the Mt. Sac Relays 5000
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

Finishing off the week, we have another international Olympian at the keyboard for 5 Questions with. But like yesterday, this tremendous athlete has large ties to the US distance running scene, as she just capped off a fruitful collegiate career and will now test her mettle in the professional ranks.

Sheila Reid has been fighting lately, but not the way you'd expect. Until yesterday, she was fighting to attain a spot on the 2012 Canadian Olympic Team. Luckily, the call came and the multi-time NCAA National Champion at Villanova will be competing in the 2012 London Olympics. She has signed on with famed agent, Ray Flynn, and will compete in a few tune up races in Europe before the 5000 prelims start on August 7th. Follow her on Twitter @shewolfruns

5 Questions with Sheila Reid

1. Writing About Running: First off, congrats on being selected to the Canadian Olympic Team for the 5000 meters. How excited were you to get the call at the final hour?

Sheila Reid: I probably didn't sound very excited, as the first thing I said when I got the call was "Really?" I thought the appeal process was over and that I wouldn't be going to London, so I was confused. But when it was confirmed officially, I was ecstatic! I'm still smiling about it.

2. Writing About Running: You had an outstanding career at Villanova with Coach Gina Procaccio. What were a few moments that you took the most pride in and how did you choose Nova in the first place?

Sheila Reid: The first cross country team championship will always have a special place in my heart. We didn't qualify for NCAA's when I was a freshman, but Gina saw the potential our team had and said we would be national champions by the time we were seniors. As it turned out, we won two before my class graduated. I chose Nova because of the great tradition. The program has a great track record when it comes to NCAA champions, and Olympians.

3. Writing About Running: You recently signed on with Ray Flynn to be your agent after graduating. What led you to select Flynn Sports and have you signed a shoe deal at this point?

Sheila Reid: Flynn Sports is a really professional company with many successful athletes. After meeting Ray, it seemed like a good fit for me. I've yet to finalize a shoe contract.

Celebrating the 2010 Cross Country National
Championship with her Villanova teammates
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

4. Writing About Running: Between you and Cam Levins, Canada has had a lot of recent success at the collegiate level. How much does it mean to you to be one of the "future stars" and carry out that promise at the professional level for your country?

Sheila Reid: I think that was one of the keys to my selection to the Olympic team. I have a lot of ground to cover in this transition from collegiate to professional running, and more world experience is the only way to do it. I am not the best in the world now, but I want to be at that level in 4 years, so I am excited to start that process in London!

5. Writing About Running: The European racing season has begun and it sounds like you're already there and getting started. What are your plans before and after the Olympics?

Sheila Reid: Before the Olympics, I will race a couple 1500m races in Belgium and Italy to tune up for the 5000m. I have not planned much beyond London, but I can confirm that I will be seeing Bruce Springsteen in concert at the end of August.

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

5 Questions with Kyle Alcorn

2012-07-12T08:05:00.000-04:00

Kyle Alcorn hurdles a barrier en route to
his first Olympic Team
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

Today, we have another Steepler on board for 5 Questions with a member of the 2012 London Olympic Team. He's been competing at the top level of the US ranks since 2008, but this is his biggest accomplishment to date. Read on to hear about his "necessity" year.

Kyle Alcorn made his first mark in 2004 with a win in the steeple at US Juniors. He would later go on to win the NCAA Championship in 2008 and would make the Berlin World Championship team in 2009. Last year, he would finish third at the USATF Championships, but didn't have the standard to run in Daegu. This year would be different. Alcorn hit the Olympic A Standard with time to spare in a strong personal best time of 8:20.86 at Oxy in May. This would set him up for his performance at the trials, where he would end up flat out on the track with a ticket to London in his pocket.

5 Questions with Kyle Alcorn

1. Writing About Running: Congrats on making the 2012 London Olympic Team. You looked like you were in severe pain after the finish of the Steeple Final. How bad did you want to make the team?

Kyle Alcorn: Going into this Olympic trials failure was not an option. I knew that this was going to be a tough race and was willing to push myself as hard as I needed to make sure I would be top 3. This year was all or nothing for me, and fortunately it paid off for me.

2. Writing About Running: With six guys going into the steeple final with the Olympic A Standard, what was your strategy?

Kyle Alcorn: Going into this Olympic trials failure was not an option. I knew that this was going to be a tough race and was willing to push myself as hard as I needed to make sure I would be top 3. This year was all or nothing for me, and fortunately it paid off for me.

3. Writing About Running: You made the Berlin World team in 2009. How much will that experience prepare you for London?

Kyle Alcorn: I think the only thing that will be helpful from that experience is learning to warm up a little earlier to allow for extra time to go through the call rooms to get on the track. I think that everything else will be amplified on this Olympic stage compared to the World Championship stage.

4. Writing About Running: What are your racing plans before and after the Olympics?

Kyle Alcorn: Right now I am planing on running two races prior to the Olympics. I am planning on racing a steeple in Lucern on the 17th and a mile in Dublin on the 25th. As for after the Olympics nothing is planned yet.

Evan Jager helps a worn, but relieved Alcorn off the track
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

5. Writing About Running: Coming off an NCAA Championship in '08, it had to be a little bit of a let down not making the team. Can you summarize your last four years leading back to where you are today?

Kyle Alcorn: There has been some changes over the last four years. I first moved back to my home town for about 1.5 years right out of college so that my wife could finish up grad school. This was tough on training since my coach Louie Quintana lived in Tempe. So in February of 2010 I moved back to Tempe to be trained by Louie face to face. I have had my ups and downs over the last four years but have managed to finish 3rd in 3 of the last 4 US Championships. I think looking at where I am now compared to where I was at the trials in 2008, I have gained a lot of experience and also confidence at racing on this level. In 2008 making the Olympic team would have just been a huge cherry on top, this year it was a necessity and I treated it as so.

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com

5 Questions with Ciaran O'Lionaird

2012-07-11T08:02:00.000-04:00

Ciaran "Mad Len" O'Lionaird rode his
mullet all the way to the 2011 World
Championship final in Daegu
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

Today we have another Olympian for our 2012 London Olympics 5 Questions with series. Although, this time it's not an American that I traded emails with. It's one of Ireland's brightest young stars that attended college, and currently trains, in the United States.

Ciaran O'Lionaird had a big 2011. After leading the Florida State Seminoles to a surprise runner-up finish at the 2010 NCAA Cross Country Championship, he had a strong, but disappointing finish to his collegiate track season. That's when things got exciting. He had an excellent string of races that netted him a 3:34.46 PR in the 1500 and landed him in the 2012 World Championship Final. He's fought through injury this year, but is coming around in time to compete in his first Olympic Games for his native Ireland. Check out his webpage GoCiaran.com and follow him on Twitter @GoCiaran

5 Questions with Ciaran O'Lionaird

1. Writing About Running: First off, congratulations on being selected for the Irish Olympic team. Ireland has a long tradition of great milers. What does it mean to you to be able to carry on that legacy at the Olympic level?

Ciaran O'Lionaird: Thank you very much. I'm really excited to represent my country naturally, but the fact I'm competing in an event that presents such a rich heritage for Ireland makes it that much better. Though I managed a breakthrough last year in the 1500, I still feel like I'm really new to the event, given my injury history. To be able to draw on the experience of Eamonn Coghlan and Mark Carroll has been a big positive factor, especially dealing with negative scenarios, such as this achilles injury. I'm hoping I can do Irish middle distance running justice there and I know we have a lot of talented young runners coming through to help continue that process.

2. Writing About Running: Your excellent 2011 that landed you in the World Championship Final had to open your eyes to what is possible. How much did that run of excellent racing change your long term goals in the sport?

Ciaran O'Lionaird: It definitely caused me to re-adjust my goals long-term and start looking at consistent high-placing in finals, which is a good thing, but it also perhaps filled me with a little too much excitement, as I felt I pushed too hard coming back off Daegu in the autumn as I wanted to make another jump for London. My body still isn't able to handle the training that most 3:34 runners do, and because of that, I need to take a step back and allow myself to develop as a runner and almost grow into the role I've cast for myself through my run at World's last year, as opposed to pushing the envelope constantly.

Leading Florida State to a surprise second place finish
at the 2010 NCAA Cross Country Championship
(photo: TrackAndFieldPhoto)

3. Writing About Running: You recently switched training camps and have been training with Mark Rowland and Oregon Track Club Elite. How has the change gone and who are you working out with in Eugene?

Ciaran O'Lionaird: The change has gone very smoothly. I'm extremely thankful of course to Coach Rowland, all of the OTC and Tracktown USA family, but also to Nike Running, the Oregon Project and Alberto (Salazar) for being understanding and facilitating the change. It was a really difficult decision for me to make and the timing was tough too, but I felt for my long-term development it was the right move. No doubt, Alberto's guys are putting out phenomenal performances and I'm really happy for them. For me though, my running goes well when my life outside running is balanced and not vice-versa. I felt like OTC gave me a better opportunity to achieve that, and so far it's been great. Coach Rowland is an incredible motivator and has really brought me back from what looked like a season-ending injury. I can't express my gratitude enough for that.

4. Writing About Running: You were all over Eugene for the US Olympic Trials and have ties to the American collegiate system as a standout at Florida State. What were a few of your favorite moments at the trials, on and off the track?

Legendary Coach Bob Braman with O'Lionaird
(photo: Athletics Ireland)

Ciaran O'Lionaird: There were definitely some moments that will stick with me, however I also tried to keep my distance from the trials, as I don't like to be immersed too much in the running scene. I actually drove out of town for all of my runs so I could be with myself in the woods and just chilled out. But I definitely cheered on all of my Total Sports US family, as well as my OTC teammates. Seeing Nick (Symmonds) retain his 800m title was special. Off the track I got to hang out with Coach Braman, my coach at FSU, who is one of my closest friends and mentors. I also got to kick it with my agent, Chris Layne, and Stephen HAAS, who works under him. Total Sports took a chance on me when nobody else would last year, so I'm really close with Chris. I call him "Mad Layne" and plan to wear cargo shorts consistently through the Olympics in his honor.

5. Writing About Running: Injuries have plagued you this year, but it sounds like you are starting to round into shape. What kind of racing do you have planned before and after the Olympics in August?

Ciaran O'Lionaird: I'm going to do some tune-up races mid-July before the Games. I'll be racing the mile in Cork, Ireland on July 17th, and from there we'll see. I'm still training hard, so I won't let up until right before the Games. I'm not looking beyond the Olympics right now. Should my body cooperate and opportunities present themselves, I always love to compete. But I'm taking it one race at a time. I've only been on the track less than a month training, but in the past ten days have had some of my best workouts ever. I don't quite know how it's come together, but it has. Credit to Coach Rowland and my support team at OTC as well as AAI HP and the Institute of Sport. Their work in handling my injury is starting to pay dividends!

Follow writing about running on Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest

Support the site and start here when you shop on Amazon.com