200 metres for record purposes. 200 metres The 200 metres (also spelled 200 meters) is a sprint running event. On an outdoor race 400 m track, the race begins on the curve and ends on the home straight, so a combination of techniques are needed to successfully run the race. A slightly shorter race, called the "stadion" and run on a straight track, was the first recorded event at the ancient Olympic Games. The 200 m places more emphasis on speed endurance than shorter sprint distances as athletes rely on different energy systems during the longer sprint. In the United States and
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