Track and Field News has flattered me by selecting me as an "expert" picker for the Marathon Trials. I'm supposed to get to them my top 5 for the men's and women's trials.
Usually this far out (2 months) I don't think too much about these things so I'm curious as to who your top 5 are and why.
My quick thoughts (not necessarily my top 5) without really analyzing it.
Hall and Meb are above everyone else if healthy.
Then Ritz. If healthy and at their best that is the team.
I think conceivably a few guys like Mo Trafeh (never finished a marathon) have shown the talent to possibly get to the level of the top 3. But obviously guys blow up in marathons and guys get hurt so others could break this up.
On the women's side.
Shalane, Kara, and now Desiree seem to be a level above everyone else. Deena has been at that level and is coming back nicely so you can't exclude her. Magdalena has shown success in the marathon and has made a step up in class on the track. Amy Hastings is at that next level as well. I guess what I'm saying without improvement if everyone runs their best the team is Shalane Kara and Desi but the other 3 could bust them up.
Your thoughts.