Will we see an American Champion in Boston Next Year?

Ryan Hall and Kara Goucher gave it everything they had today at the Boston Marathon, which I'll touch upon further in another blog post later today, however, news broke this morning that Olympic bronze medalist Shalane Flanagan is eyeing the Boston Marathon or New York Marathon in 2010.  Flanagan, who's stated quite clearly that she's interested in testing out the marathon before 2012, spoke with the Boston Globe and gave some good insight into her thinking.  

Flanagan has shown over the past two years that she has what it takes to be successful internationally at the highest level.  Her 5k/10k speed, along with her increasing strength, seems to make her a prime fit for the marathon distance.  Additionally, it doesn't hurt that her mom was a world-record holder in the marathon.  Is there anyone better she can learn from.

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In other Flanagan news, the North Carolina resident is now working with former Wisconsin coach Jerry Schumacher.  After splitting with coach John Cook earlier this year, Flanagan chose to take her talents to the coach of Matt Tegenkamp and Chris Solinsky.  Schumacher is a proven coach, with some great Nike resources behind him.  

I personally feel this is a great choice for Flanagan, especially as she continues to run up the world rankings in the 5k and 10k.  Moving to the marathon is a gamble with Schumacher, who has never coached one specifically, but he is coaching athletes Tim Nelson and Simon Bairu, who are said to be eyeing the marathon distance over the next year as well.