2008 Olympic Hopeful - Galen Rupp of the University of Oregon
Rupp has proven that he has what it takes to beat Americans and fellow collegiates. He has yet to face the top distance runners in the world, namely, the East Africans. To give light to Galen's recent performance, at the 2004 Olympics in Athens, the top American finisher in the 10k was Dan Browne, running 28:14. Rupp's ultimate challenge may come at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing.
Galen's distance running prowess would come as no surprise to those who have been following his running career since high school. As a senior in high school, Rupp already had numerous accomplishments which he will be remembered for. He finished 2nd at the Foot Locker Nationals cross-country race, as well as setting the national high school record for 3000m at 8:03.67. This time surpassed that of the distance running legend, Steve Prefontaine, who ran 8:08 in 1969. To add to this list, he also ran a 4:01 mile at the Prefontaine Classic.
Following his high school career, Galen set U.S. junior records in both the 5,000 and 10,000 meter events. His times were 13:37 and 28:15 for the respective distances. The 5000m record was previously held by 1964 Olympian Gerry Lindgren, while the 10,000m record was held by fellow Oregon Duck, Rudy Chapa. Rupp had originally decided to forego NCAA running to train under his high school coach, 1984 Olympic marathoner Alberto Salazar. His move to the University of Oregon brought with it a coaching change, as he is now coached by Vin Lananna, formerly Stanford's Head Coach, although he continues to receive instruction and feedback from Salazar.
Galen has had a stellar career so far for the Ducks, beginning with his 2nd place finish at the NCAA Championships 10,000 meters as a freshman. In 2006, Rupp won the Pac-10 Conference cross-country meet, and finished 6th at NCAA Nationals. The big meets are yet to come for the 2007 track season, so Galen has plenty of chances to continue to showcase his abilities. Next year, home field advantage may play a part in Galen's success as the 2008 Olympic Trials will be held at his home track in Eugene, Oregon.
Published by Quenton Kappids
B.S. in Biology w/ Emphasis in Microbiology View profile
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2 Comments
Post a CommentPlease Galen stop wasting your time because you are no match for the east african runners!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Very well written Kyle! Go Galen!