By: Bryan Li

Galen Rupp, the shy, signature runner of disgraced ex-coach Alberto Salazar’s team, has always been a mystery. Rupp is one of the most proficient long distance runners of our time, but can his innocence be proven?

Galen Rupp is one of the most elite American long distance runners. He has shown expertise in endurance and speed in all kinds of races throughout his 15-year career, The New York Times says. Even though Rupp is a hero to many, people suspect that his skill does not come from his efforts alone.

The New York Times claims that investigations found that Salazar was guilty of providing dope, or drugs that enhance the performance of athletes, to two of his female runners. People now suspect that Rupp may not be the runner he seems.

The New York Times says that Rupp has never failed a single drug test, and that many champion runners have a connection with someone found to be using drugs. Other athletes defend Rupp. As Amby Burfoot, champion of the 1968 Boston marathon, says, “He’s awkward — not media friendly — and, yes, has that association with Alberto. But he has been at the top for an unbelievably long time, almost two decades, has never failed a test of any kind that I know of, and almost always performs at his best in the big-time competitions.”

But accusations aren’t the only things Rupp has to deal with. According to The New York Times, Rupp has also been dealing with back pain, a herniated disc, and pinched nerve. Rupp knows that running is never the simple sport it seems, and that he needs to prove his worth.