jjjjjj wrote:
beach's trajectory in the decathlon is steep, so the fact that others can still compete with him for ncaa, when he was far behind initially as a freshman, does not mean that he is not a strong candidate to make the American team for the Olympics this year and be close to 9,000 in four years. at 800m, didn't he beat Andrews in high school? he could be where Andrews is now if he dedicated himself to the 8.
Don't get me wrong, I'm definitely a Beach fan. I always pull for the decathletes who are good at mid-distance. I do think he has a shot at making the team, but if Clay is anywhere near his 2008 self, say in 8,500 or even 8400 shape, Beach won't be able to touch that. I'd be surprised if Beach gets past 8200 this year.
As far as getting close to 9,000 in four years, even with a lot of work I don't see how Beach will be able to be anywhere near a strong enough thrower to flirt with the 9000 barrier.