byLarry Eder
Both parties have handled this well. The focus is finding Alan Webb the best environment for his development. That is the art rather than the science of coaching.
Alan Webb has been America’s miler for nearly a decade-the man who could win the gold medal for the U.S. at the distance. Instead, in 2007, it was Bernard Lagat, who won the 1,500 meters and 5,000 meters at the 2007 World Champs. The difference was experience and timing. In the semi finals, Webb ran 52.9 for the last 400 meters, in the final, he ran 54.1, when Lagat ran 52.8 for the last 400 meters and 13.1 for the last 100 meters.
Alan Webb is a tremendously talented athlete. He has the talent to win Olympic and World medals. He needs the self confidence, both in his own running and racing, but also in his training program. We wish Alan Webb well in his journey to become America’s best miler/1,500m runner.
Alan Webb, 2009 USA Outdoor, by PhotoRun.net.
EUGENE (USA):
US
mile record holder Alan Webb moved out of the Oregon Project and will be no
longer coached by Alberto Salazar. “I have nothing but good things to say about
working with Alan,” he said by Track Focus. Nike’s official statement: “We can
confirm that Alan Webb has decided to make a change in coaches and training
groups. He will pursue a group where he can train with more middle distance
runners. We wish Alan all the best and continued success as one of the all-time
great milers.”
