Long-distance running confined area. Early tracks were usually on flattened earth or were simply marked areas of grass. The style of running tracks became refined during the 20th century: the oval running tracks were standardised to 400 metres in distance and cinder tracks were replaced by synthetic all-weather running track of asphalt and rubber from the mid-1960s onwards. It was not until the 1912 Stockholm Olympics that the standard long-distance track events of 5000 metres and 10,000 metres were introduced. Long-distance road running competitions are mainly conducted on courses of paved or tarmac roads, although major events often finish on the track
Athletics at the 1908 Summer Olympics – Men's 3200 metres steeplechase These were the standing world and Olympic records (in minutes) prior to the 1908 Summer Olympics. "(*)" The distance of this race was 2500 metres and the track was 500 metres in circumference. "(**)" The distance of this race was 2590 metres and the track was 536.45 metres= mile in circumference. All first round heats were held on Friday, July 17, 1908. Heat 1 Russell won easily, with Cartasegna being the only other competitor to finish. Downing was disqualified for incorrectly clearing the first water jump, Ragueneau retired on the second lap, and Carr injured his ankle. Heat 2 Eisele