Ireland has had representatives in the last two 1500 metres finals at this championship: Loughborough student Gareth Turnbull was seventh in the 1999 Games and then Queen's man Brian Treacy was fourth in 1997. University Games race statistics seem to suggest that the 2001 men's final may be a slow run tactical event. The 1999 final was won in 3 minutes 41 seconds and the 1997 event in 3 minutes 43.5 seconds. Nolan's best time is around 3 minutes 36 seconds so he should not be too put out if the pattern continues; the tactical skills gained from 11 previous senior international championships and the closing speed that befits an ex 800 metres runner should leave him well covered. However, It could be that he or another athlete decides to take charge and force the pace to split the field up at some stage. If this were to happen they could come close to the championship record set in 1981 by athletics all time great Said Aouita: 3 minutes 38 seconds. When speaking to Irishrunner.com, a few weeks before Edmonton, Nolan said ' I've been going well in training and I know there's more there time wise it just hasn't quite clicked in to place in a race yet. It will come.' It didn't click for him in Edmonton, here's hoping it will in Beijing. James Nolan in Edmonton
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