Middle-distance running Middle-distance running Middle-distance running events are track races longer than sprints, up to 3000 metres. The standard middle distances are the 800 metres, 1500 metres and mile run, although the 3000 metres may also be classified as a middle-distance event. The 1500 m came about as a result of running laps of a 400 m outdoor track or laps of a 200 m indoor track, which were commonplace in continental Europe in the 20th century. A very uncommon middle-distance event that is sometimes run by sprinters for muscle stamina training. This was a popular distance, particularly indoors, when imperial distances
2008 United States Olympic Trials (track and field) 2008 United States Olympic Trials (track and field) The 2008 United States Olympic Trials for track and field were held at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon. Organised by USA Track and Field, the ten-day competition lasted from June 27 until July 8 and served as the national championships in track and field for the United States. The results of the event determined qualification for the American Olympic team at the 2008 Summer Olympics, held in Beijing. Provided they had achieved the Olympic "A" standard, the top three athletes gained a place on the Olympic team. In the event that a