To convert a 1500 m time to a comparable mile time, 3 databases were obtained. The first database used the NCAA track & field best performance list between 1991 and 2002. The 2nd database used the Pac 10 All Time Best Performance List as of 2002. Some High School performances were used for a 3rd database (as of 2002). A single table was created using the aforementioned databases with the results ultimately being merged together. Equations were derived not only for converting a 1500m time to a mile time, but also for converting an 800m to an 880y, 3K to 2 mile, 5K to 3 mile, and a 10K to 6 mile times. This is not the first time this has been done (e.g. see reference 1 and 2). However, the method used is believed to be original.
Note 1: The “Sport of Track & Field" web page can be viewed by selecting Sitemap->Sport of Track & Field from menu bar at top.
References
- Computerized running Training Programs, James B. Gardner and J. Gerry Purdy, 9th printing May 1992
- Daniel’s Running Formula, Jack Daniels, PhD, 2nd edition 2005
