If any East African (or any one else) became a citizen today they would not be able to represent the USA in international competition until after 2013.
If any East African (or any one else) became a citizen today they would not be able to represent the USA in international competition until after 2013.
cool story bro
totally worth all the capital letters
Yeah, but he could be the POTUS
3 years if they are any good and represented their previous country.
It is also 2 years before they can run a US Championships. Meaning that they can't run a trials race.
You're missing the point: anyone who is granted US citizenship this year may not be able to compete for the US in 2012, but he or she could follow Lagat's example and compete for his or her original country while holding US citizenship. I know the Letsrun boards will EXPLODE with pride if any new Americans medal in London, even if it's for their country of origin!!!
Not legally. Bernard was a cheat.
OP
You must look at the whole picture.
You do not realize that many countries other than the United States have made people 'instant citizens' so they could compete under their flag for international evenets.
This rule is an attempt to prevent that.
The rule is there for a reason.
I love the rule. I just find it humorous that fans think that athletes like Chelenga has any chance of wearing a USA uniform prior to about 2016.
Reuters: The United States of America will be merging with the The United States of China in 2012 and will be now called China.