United States Olympic Trials (track and field) fill out the field. Since 1972 there have been a minimum of 24 entries in any event, with the popular sprint events 100 meters, 200 meters, 400 meters and 110 meter hurdles having a minimum of 32 entries. Since 1992, athletes achieving the "A" standard are funded to attend the Olympic Trials, while "B" standard athletes have to pay their own way to the meet. Unlike many other countries, who have a selection committee, the selection to the United States Olympic Team is exclusively by results on the track. It's "do or die" in the prescribed event. If two or
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