Hats off to Phillip s 2:12, 50. The guy has talent. It was his second marathon, but last year he did not finish.
There are two arguments: make standard high and according to what I think is currently considered to result in a top 20 finish. The athletes would be ambitiously trying to hit that mark...so the argument goes.
Or, second, make qualifications easier like in Finland or Sweden (2:15) in order to give developing upcoming athletes a chance. With being Olympic athletes the can market themselves better and sustain a professional career.
Problem is Germany doesn't spend much money on athletes. They want medals and they know even guys like arne gabius have no chance in RÃo. So why give athletes like Phillip a free trip to Rio to finish somewhere top 25 at best.
I understand him Being pissed at that, but the real problem is the federations tight budget which results in them throwing the little money they have into throws and jumps.