Now 17 years have passed and the U.S. men have not yet returned to the winner's circle. The news this year was somewhat heartening for the Americans though, as Rod DeHaven turned in a fine sixth-place finish, the best placing for the home country in more than a decade, since 1987 actually. There's that year again. DeHaven may have finished sixth this year, but easily received the biggest ovation at the awards ceremony, where an appreciative crowd gave him an outpouring of support. Aside from new citizen Khalid Khannouchi, DeHaven has established himself as the top U.S. marathoner runner, at least for now.
History has a way of changing things though.
Joseph Chebet and Fatuma Roba could tell you that. Two years ago they were on top of the marathon world, each having successfully defended their crowns at Boston. Everyone wanted to know about Joseph Chebet's training and his lifestyle. We all wanted to know. No one was asking Chebet any questions yesterday after the race, mainly because he was not around.