Ryan Hall decided to start the 2012 U.S. Marathon Olympic Trials in Houston going out blazing ... and the other top contenders elected to join him. Hall went out for a 4:51 first mile, and through three miles led a seven-man lead pack, including Mo Trafeh, Dathan Ritzenhein, Meb Keflezighi, Joseph Chirlee, Abdi Abdirahman and Brian Olinger.
The quick pace through five miles puts the 26.2-mile target at a blazing 2:07. Needless to say, if Hall keeps that pace up, most of this pack won't be able to stick with him based on their prior times. In 2007, Hall ran a 1:06 first half and 1:02 back half to qualify for the 2008 Olympics. It appears he's either looking to come in faster in 2012, or wants to wear out the field early.
The split times are unofficial from USATF.
Mile 1: 4:51
Mile 2: 4:51
Mile 3: 4:48
Mile 4: 4:49
Mile 5: 4:43