By Keeler McJunkin
Clayton Murphy came from behind to take gold in the men’s 800 meters with a time of 1:44.76 at the 2016 U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials at Hayward Field on Monday, taking a win from reigning IAAF world indoor champion Boris Berian, who led for most of the race.
Berian, who finished second in 1:44.92, had the lead as the bell sounded for the final lap and jumped out to a big advantage down the backstretch, but was nipped at the finish line by Murphy, who outsprinted the field in the final 100 meters.
“I wasn’t sure if I could catch him,” Murphy said. “The goal was to be top three, so when I came off the curve in second, I had confidence I could stay in the top three. I kept pushing to the line and was able to get him in the last few steps.”
Murphy won the NCAA 1,500 title at the same track less than a month ago as an Akron junior and can now add a national championship and Olympic berth in the 800 to his resume.
“It’s overwhelming,” said Murphy, who turned professional shortly after the NCAA meet. “To be an Olympian and represent Team USA is something I’ve dreamed of since I started running. I just can’t wait to get to Rio.”
Berian entered the race as the favorite after running the top time in the preliminary heats, but he isn’t disappointed with finishing second after losing the late lead.
“I was just excited I saw only one person pass me,” Berian said. “Making top three was the goal, and I’m excited to represent the USA.”
Charles Jock of OTC Elite rounds out the team headed to Rio after he passed several runners in the final stretch, moving from seventh to third to take bronze in 1:45.48. Jock was known as a front runner style of racer in college, but has developed into a closer recently, which worked well for him today.
“The last few years were about gaining strength and being well-rounded as a runner,” Jock said. “I still can run up front when I need to, but now I have more skills to use a kick or run from the pack. I feel confident that whatever type of race it is I can compete for the win.”
Murphy kept open the possibility of running the 1,500 at the trials later this week, but said he wants to talk with his coach and clear his mind before he makes the decision.
“I haven’t even thought about the 1,500 in the last two weeks since I decided to run the 800 first,” Murphy said. “Tonight I’ll decide on the 1,500.”
