How can he run 2 miles under 17 minutes?

Let him try running. I wouldn't let him run 2 miles for time yet. Let him run 2 laps. See how he feels. If he feels ok, let him try 4 laps. If he feels ok and he ran it in about 8 minutes, let him see if he can do the 2 miles. Otherwise, don't let him get caught up in trying to get this belt.