If anyone has checked the running news lately, chances are they might stumble across the name Ryan Hall, a 25 year-old Big Bear, California native and Stanford grad. From a record setting half-marathon in Houston to a record setting debut marathon in London, he has grabbed the attention of the running world.

History shows from past Olympics that the U.S. has had their way with the sprints, consistently dominating the podium and medal count. But history also says, Americans have been distant and far from dominant in the distance categories. In regards to the marathon, critics say the U.S. cannot attain the status of an international powerhouse. Skeptics say Americans will never compete with the East Africans. But the time has come for critics to retract their doubts because history is being rewritten. As proven in Athens in 2004, Meb Keflezighi and Deena Kastor graced the podium with silver and bronze medals in the 26.2 mile race. This was no accident, but rather a bold testament of America's capacity to perform on the world marathon stage.

We believe in American distance running, and that there is more history yet to be written. We believe that Ryan Hall can run with the most elite athletes the world has to offer. The question is, Do You Believe?