xenonscreams wrote:
Why is it that everyone seems to have forgotten about the 2012 Olympics?
Cause haters gonna hate.
On a more serious note, the challenge facing Rupp in competitive, tactical races is his last lap. It should be quite clear Rupp is in as good or better shape than his competitors.
The reason why people discount the 2012 Olympics is because
a)It was in the 10,000; where Rupp has had some good final laps
b)Rupp hasn't ever had a really stellar last lap in a race shorter than 10,000 EXCEPT for the 2012 trials 5000m vs Lagat
In other words, Rupp's problem (and could well just be a mental issue) is that he struggles to rip a fast last lap when the initial tempo is faster. Clearly, given the trials race, Rupp CAN compete with the best in the world as a 52.xx close in a tactical affair will almost always medal and frequently win.
What I'll really be watching for with interest at USA's is if Rupp can come up with another one of those blistering laps. I just get the feeling if he figures it out again he'll have it down and we will see him contending regularly in international races against top competition.