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Post by woody on Jan 16, 2007 8:04:04 GMT -5
I was just wondering what everyone thought of Ryan Hall's performance in the half marathon in Houston. I personally think it is an amazing accomplishment and a step in the right direction for American distance running.
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Post by frojoe23 on Jan 16, 2007 8:15:01 GMT -5
Well, all I can say is that I'm shocked by his performance. Here is a guy who was a pure miler. Very close to sub 4:00 in high school and then was able to stretch it out to be a fantastic 5k runner in college. The guy has never even run a 10k on the track yet. Based on his time Sunday, he should be able to take Meb's 10k record off of the books this spring.
All I can remember is his dual against Ritz at NCAA's in cross. One of the greatest races I have ever seen. It's hard to believe that Ritz beat him then, because I don't think they are even in the same league any more. Ryan Hall is "The Great White Hope".
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Post by Justin on Jan 16, 2007 10:30:43 GMT -5
I think it is awesome.
Jaron, I know what you are saying, but really in HS it's hard to call anyone a pure anything. There is a ton of development left to be done form that point. If I remember correctly Hall was a bit under developed in HS, meaning he was pretty small and had a lot of natural maturing left to do at that time. I really feel most runners need to be bumped up in their race distance. The added leg speed is crucial in upper level competition, even down to the NCAA level most races are won on a kick at the end. A guy who could be a good miler in college, could bump up and run the 5k, and that speed could be what seperates him from being good to winning races.
It should be interesting to see what he can do for the marathon. I think I read where he may run one in the Spring. In my opinion, you never really know, an awesome 1/2 doesn't always equate to a great full. I'm really looking forward to the trials, it should be very competitive.
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Post by wvrunner on Jan 16, 2007 13:49:53 GMT -5
I agree with the above thoughts. I only wish it would get the media attention it deserves. I have seen nothing about this in the mainstream media. Performances like Ryans motivate alot of people if they are aware of it. I think he is part of the same training group as Meb and Deena. That group has had alot of success nationally and internationally. I would love to see some in-depth info on how they train. I know Vigil and Larsen work with these athletes and they are 2 well respected coaches. Let's hope this is the beginning of something that America can feed off of.
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Post by Justin on Jan 16, 2007 15:18:50 GMT -5
Interesting quote from USA Today from Hall:
"The thing I'm most pleased about is that my preparation for the marathon has been really enjoyable," said Hall, who has logged 130-mile weeks. "I've never enjoyed running more than the last couple of months. I love the long runs; I love doing the hard tempos; I love the volume. I think I'm made for the longer distances."
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