Why doesn't anyone run both the 1500 and the 800 anymore? Miling and half-miling sucks now because nobody does what Coe, Cram, Ovett, and those guys did back in the early 80's.
Anyone got an explanation as to why nobody doubles on the international scene anymore?
>>Why doesn't anyone run both the 1500 and the 800 anymore? Miling and half-miling sucks now because nobody does what Coe, Cram, Ovett, and those guys did back in the early 80's.
Anyone got an explanation as to why nobody doubles on the international scene anymore?<<
My guess: EPO use changed the game a bit, as it helps aerobic metabolism far more than anerobic metabolism. (Although I and many others think Kipketer used it during his WR days). What this means is that the best 1500 types TODAY tend to have less basic speed than back in the days of Snell-Ryun-Von Damme-Coe-Ovett-Cram etc. AND that their 2nd best event is likely to be the 5000...
It's really rather shocking when you think about someone like El G running 3:26, or Daniel Komen running 3:29; these people couldn't hold a candle to many greats of the past WRT basic speed, yet their chemistry set allows them to run longer distances much faster...
Take away the doping and things will revert, IMHO...
So that's why EPO is mentioned in one of Coe's training books...
Even if Coe did dope, which I beleive he didnt, who in their right mind would mention such a thing in a training book?
Think before you post.
I must agree that EPO and perhaps other drugs are much due to the change in performances. That and several other factors.
The 800 seems to be right where it was 20 yrs ago- marginal improvement in WR's and consistent level of guys 143-144. The 1500 is a different ball game. Where 332 would be a WR or near 20 yrs ago, now it will be tough to place you top 20 in the world, by seasons end.