1,500 metres, Men

The 1968 champion, Kip Keino, and the 1,500/mile world record holder, Jim Ryun, were both back for the 1972 1,500. Ryun was no longer the dominant runner he had been in 1966-67 and was actually pushed as the top American by Marty Liquori, who had the top time in the world for 1,500 metres in 1971. But Liquori injured his leg and could not even contest the US Olympic Trials. Also a top miler 1972 was Kenyan Ben Jipcho, who had sacrificed himself in the 1968 final to help Keino win gold. He was no longer considered simply a domestique for Keino, but he too was injured and did not compete at München. A few weeks after the US Olympic Trials, Ryun ran 3:52.8, the third fastest mile ever, showing his fitness. The Olympic 1,500 would have three rounds. Ryun and Keino were drawn in the fourth heat of round one. Keino ran near the front, as he often did, while Ryun was in the back of the pack. At 1,000 metres, Ryun’s heel was clipped by Ghana’s Billy Fordjour, and both fell to the track. Ryun got up a few seconds later but was hopelessly behind and did not qualify for the semi-final. As he crossed the line, Keino met him and tried to console him. The US Olympic Committee appealed, claiming Ryun was tripped, but it was not allowed and he was out of the competition.

In the final the way seemed open for Keino to defend his gold medal. Among the 10 finalists, his main competition seemed to be New Zealander Rod Dixon, and the erratic Finlander, Pekka Vasala. His teammate, Mike Boit, also qualified but he was better known as an 800 runner. The pace in the final was slow, but Keino moved to the lead just after 700 metres. He then fired off a 55.1 lap, trying to break down the other runners, but they stayed in contact, the slow early pace leaving them plenty of run. Off the final curve, Vasala moved to Keino’s shoulder and outsprinted him to win the upset gold medal. Keino placed second with Dixon getting the bronze medal.