6/11/08

1. The Can't-Miss Race
There will be 40 events contested in Eugene, with plenty at stake: Only the top three finishers per event move on to the Beijing Olympics in August (presuming they also meet Olympic qualifying marks). With so much activity, is it possible to choose one must-see race? Yes, because the men's 5000 meters final (June 30) will be supremely fast, fierce, and fun. There's Bernard Lagat, the reigning world champ and possessor of a mighty kick. Matt Tegenkamp, owner of the best American time (13:07.41) last year. And a slew of hungry contenders that will make the race a literal fight--elbows and hips--to the finish.