Description

Biological factors that go primarily into a middle distance racer are developed fast and type 1 slow twitch muscles, adrenaline (usually for the final kick), anaerobic respiration (bringing it in after the final kick), racing tactics, and aerobic conditioning. The 1500 m has been estimated to require an equal contribution from fast and slow twitch muscles.

In a modern competition, the first 100 m is run in lanes, after which competitors may break for the inside without deliberately obstructing or pushing another competitor. Running flat out for this distance is impossible and tactics can be a factor in reaching the finish line first. Running in the lead is often considered a disadvantage as trailing runners can choose when to accelerate past the leader, and the effect of wind resistance. Runners not in first place on the inside can find themselves boxed if other runners start to overtake them. Running in last place is not recommended as there may be too much ground to make up when the final sprint for the finish starts.

In top class races, the lane start usually ensures a brisk pace for the first 200 m. Occasionally, no one will be happy to lead and the field will bunch for the remainder of the first lap leaving a sprint on the second lap. More often, one runner will ensure a fast first lap and the winner will be the one who slows least on the second lap, despite the appearance of sprinting at the finish. However, the occasional 800-meter runner is able to produce a world-class 800 with even laps, or even negative splits.

Greats: Wilson Kipketer

Cool Gear

Wilson Kipketer (born December 12, 1972 in Kapchemoyiwo, Kenya into the Kalenjin tribe) is a middle distance runner. He has set world records at both the 800 and 1000 metre distances.
As a teenager, Kipketer was first noticed by 1968 and 1972 Olympic champion Kip Keino. Keino suggested Kipketer attend the catholic St. Patrick's High School in Iten that was famous for bringing up young runners.

Adidas Men's Cosmos

For 400-1,500 meter events. Synthetic leather and mesh upper. EVA heel wedge midsole. Nylon six-spike plate. Wt. 6.8 oz.

Adidas Women's adiStar Fast Lap 2005

The adidas adiStar Fast Lap 2005 track shoe is a women’s-specific middle distance spike. Extended lacing provides better fit. Hook-and-loop closures add variable adjustment and support. Midfoot strap offers improved performance and support. Pre-molded EVA midsole for optimized comfort and cushioning. Pebax® and TPU plate with removable elements. Wt. 6.4 oz.

In 1990, Kipketer travelled to Denmark as a foreign exchange student, studying electronic engineering at the Copenhagen University. He liked Denmark so much that he applied for Danish citizenship. Kipketer competed for Denmark in the 1995 World Championships. It was there that he claimed his first World Championship title in the 800 metres.

In 1997 Kipketer gained international recognition when he tied Sebastian Coe's World Record for the 800 metres. He went on to break the record two times that year, the second time running 1 minute 41.11 seconds. The same year saw him winning 800m gold at the Indoor World Championships in Paris, France with an indoor world record time of 1:42.67 and the 1997 World Championships in Athletics at the Olympic Stadium, Athens, Greece.

Despite fighting injuries, Kipketer continued to compete through the 2003 season gaining a silver medal at the Indoor World Championships at the National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, England but only managing fourth place at the World Championships later that year. In the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens,Greece Kipketer took a bronze medal in the 800 metres. He announced his retirement from competitive athletics in August 2005.

Links

» Wilson Kipketer - article

Nike Men's Dri-FIT Distance Half-Zip Top

The Nike Dri-FIT® Distance Half-Zip Top is a raglan pullover running top with a self-fabric collar. Reflective tape at the zipper stops. Straight bottom hem, open sleeves, articulated sleeves, curved side seams. Contrast color block at the side insets. Swoosh design trademark heat transfer at the left chest. Dri-FIT® trademark heat transfer at the right front hem. Reflective transfer at the back hem. 92% polyester/8% spandex jersey. Imported.

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Greats: Jarmila Kratochvílová

Jarmila Kratochvílová (born 26 January 1951) was a late-developing Czech 400m runner whose career was dogged by injury and illness. Always in the shadow of Marita Koch she hit peak form in 1983 aged 32. Entering a one-off 800m in Munich reportedly as a training exercise, she broke the world record with 1:53.2. This convinced her to attempt an unlikely double in the inaugural World Championships 10 days later. Despite a seemingly impossible schedule, she won the 800m easily and set a world record 47.99 to win the 400m. Koch, having missed training through injury ran (and won) the 200m. Though Koch beat her 400m time in 1985, her 800m record remains as one of the longest standing in Track and Field. Her unfeminine appearance has led to her performances being somewhat underappreciated. Drug rumours persist, though in her case no evidence has ever come to light. Conversely the world record holder in a strength event might be expected to be stronger than average.

ASICS® Women's Waterproof Shelter Jacket
Tahiti

The ASICS® Waterproof Shelter running jacket is a lot of jacket for the price. Two-layer seam-sealed waterproof shell with moisture transferring mesh lining. Specially engineered Lycra® cuff gaskets help ensure a perfect glove fit with mesh venting to help regulate body temperature. Two-way zip front vents also serve as secured stow pockets. Reflective taping and logo patch. 100% polyester with lightweight, breathable laminate. Imported.

Where to get it:
» Footlocker
» Eastbay
» Ernst Sporting Goods
» Dick's Sporting Goods

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