The 800 is supposed to be run in lanes. Instead of doubling up two people and having them share a lane, they have for some reason (Just like they did in the 12 person 2008 women's final) decided to run the race with 2 waterfalls. 6 on the inside and 3 on the outside.
This is just dumb in my opinion. Running with a waterfall start change the event.
Maybe they thought having two people share a lane was 'unfair' but that would be much better than this. It's a huge advantage to be in the 3 person outside stagger as you only have to fight two other people at the line and you also are ahead and see where you competitors are when you come off the turn.
Section 1 of 1 Finals
1st six on inside stagger
1 Charles Jock Nike OTC 1:47.35 _________
2 Brandon Johnson Nike 1:47.02 _________
3 Casimir Loxsom Brooks/Beasts TC 1:45.93 _________
4 Boris Berian New Balance 1:45.72 _________
5 Isaiah Harris Penn St. 1:45.95 _________
6 Erik Sowinski Nike 1:45.82 _________
Outside stagger
7 Clayton Murphy Nike 1:46.97 _________
8 Harun Abda Nike OTC/NikOTCE1:46.28 _________
9 Craig Engels Ole Miss 1:55.40 _________