July 18, 2004
Sacramento, Ca - Grant Robison did not reach the finals of the 1500 meters on the final day (Sunday) at the 2004 U.S. Olympic Trials, but he still has a chance to make the American team that will compete in Athens, Greece.
The scenario goes like this. Alan Webb, who ran away from the field in the finals of the 1500 meters (3:36.13) and Robison, who competed in the semifinal round but did not advance to the final, will be in the first two roster positions submitted to the United States Olympic Committee (USOC), since only they possess the Olympic "A" standard of 3:36.20. Charlie Gruber, who was second to Webb at 3:38.45 in the finals, was the highest finisher with the "B" standard and will be listed in the third position. Gruber has until August 9 to achieve the "A" standard and earn the right to compete in Athens. Rob Myers finished third in the finals of the 1500 meters (3:38.93) but because Myers does not have the "B" standard, the alternate will be fifth place finisher and former Stanford runner Jason Lunn (3:40.81). Lunn was the next highest finisher with the "B" standard. Lunn also can chase the "A" standard until August 9. Donald Sage, a senior-to-be at Stanford, finished seventh (3:41.26) while 2000 Olympian and former Stanford All-American Michael Stember placed eleventh (3:47.42).
In the finals of the women's 1500 meters, Sally Hauser, an eleven-time All-American, placed seventh with a time of 4:12.56. Carrie Tollefson was first (4:08.32) followed by Jennifer Toomey (4:08.43) and Amy Rudolph (4:08.57).
For complete results at the 2004 U.S. Olympic Trials, go to www.usatf.org