As with most of these types of "kid ran X time at Y age" we need to see how prospects pan out at least into College ranks.
As reported by Jake Klim a while back (
http://archive.dyestat.com/rivals/8136173.html
):
Ryan Deak ran:
7th grade - 9:54 3200m, 4:42 1600m
8th grade - 9:32 3200m, 4:26 1600m
Ryan's progression into Collegiate ranks (and even HS ranks) did not continue that improvement curve.
Running faster early doesn't necessarily mean better it just means you reach your physical peak earlier. Kids how started running in HS often catch up to the times in College with a lot less wear and tear and lifetime mileage.