2012 U.S. Olympic Trials
The 2012 Olympic trials are here, have begun and have been nothing short of newsworthy for the past few days. Let’s do a little recap of the highlights so far.
Decathlon
Anyone who has been near any sporting news outlet knows by now that Ashton Eaton, wonderboy from Oregon (and possibly Krypton), became the second man in history to break 9000 points en route to a new world record. Among his many highlights:
100m- 10.21 – a time that would have placed him 11th in the open 100.
LJ- 27-0/ 8.23- a distance that would have tied him for 2nd and sent him to London.
FOUR events in which he earned over 1000 points.
Also in this decathlon we saw long time legend Bryan Clay ride an emotional rollercoaster after being disqualified in the 110h, only to be reinstated after fouling all three attempts at discus. This brings about major questions from me about the disqualification process as well as the appeals process. Nobody can be expected to come back from that type of disappointment.
Women’s 100mh
Looking rather lackluster during the first round, everyone’s favorite Lolo sharpened herself through the rounds enough to snag a third place spot to grab a place on the plane to London. The weather may not have been amazing, but does the US team have what it takes to take down Sally Pearson?
Women’s 100m
Carmelita Jeter winning isn’t news. That’s to be expected. The news comes from 2nd place Tianna Madison storming her way through the rounds with multiple sub 11s and the current debacle for 3rd place. Conspiracy theories aside, expect this controversy to last long after the choice is made for who earns the spot to go.
Men’s 400m
LaShawn Merritt establishes early season dominance with a world leading time of 44.12 while collegian Tony McQuay takes 2nd in a 44.49. The biggest story has to be the remarkable comeback of Bryshon Nellum. If you are unfamiliar with his story, the former highschool standout was shot in both legs a couple years ago and has been on recovery path ever since. This was his first time dipping under 45 and he picked a hell of a time to do it.
Men’s 100m
No, it isn’t 2004. Yes, Justin Gatlin is going to the Olympics. Gatlin made it through the last barrier to complete his return by winning the 100m in a PR of 9.80. Tyson Gay was a question in my mind throughout the rounds as he seemingly pieced together races. In the final his experience and speed paid off, as he took 2nd in a 9.86. Not bad for having less than half of the total races so far this year than his competitors. The battle for 3rd was once again close between Ryan Bailey and Michael Rodgers, but Bailey got the lean and punched his ticket to London. Fan favorite Doc Patton took 6th in a 9.96 and Walter Dix pulled his already injured hamstring, possibly ending his 2012 olympic dreams.
Anyone want to do a recap of the other events?
