Olympic Middle Distance Running
A comprehensive look at Olympic middle distance running.
Rules for Olympic distance running events
What are former Olympic distance runners doing today?
Americans netted just one silver and one bronze medal - both in the marathon - and no other honors in distance running, steeplechase or race walking at the Athens Games. Led by double-threat Bernard Lagat, these U.S. runners hope to reverse that trend in 2008.
What is Olympic distance running? Middle- and long-distance races test the speed, strength and stamina of the competitors in five different events, including marquee races such as the 1500 and the marathon.
From the stirring Greek victory in the first Olympic marathon in 1896 to Hicham El Guerrouj’s double-victory in 2004, competitors in distance running events have gained success in a variety of ways. From 800-meter races that end in less than two minutes through the two hour-plus marathon, distance runners have gained glory through combinations of speed, strength and endurance.
The Men's 800 meter Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medal Winners from the Olympic Games.
The Women’s 800 meter Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medal Winners from the Olympic Games.
The Men's 1500 meter Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medal Winners from the Olympic Games.
The Women’s 1500 meter Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medal Winners from the Olympic Games.
Results of the 2008 Olympic men's and women's 800 meters
Results of the 2008 Olympic men's and women's 1500 meters
