I've updated the site with Fernandez's comments from the press conference:
http://www.letsrun.com/2009/ammanpressconference2009.php
Sweet photos here:
http://www.letsrun.com/2009/ammanpressconference2009.php
If you were there, you'd realize that he really wants to run in this race. He is a guy that is VERY committed to his team whether it be OK state or the USA.
I don't get why everyone has to be negative and worry about the future. So many people don't get it. The point of running isn't to save yourself for 8 years from now.
This maybe the only chance he has in his life of ever being apart of representing his country on a team that could medal (although I think they'll get killed at #4) or maybe even medalling himself.
Steve Slattery had to sign a release that he wouldn't sue Colorado as he wanted to run NCAAs his senior year with mono or something like that.
Lots of guys run NCAAs each year with stress reactions. It's not ideal but the fact of the matter is he's going to have to take a month off anyway so why not run the race.
Personally, I think he should run this race, and then redshirt outdoors (although I guess the odds of him competing all 4 years are slim). But skip outdoors and then get ready for xc next year.