Two Long-Distance Runners Leave the Starting Gate, One Running 9 $\frac { 1 } { 4 } \mathrm { hr }$

Multiple Choice

Two long-distance runners leave the starting gate, one running 9 mph and the other 8 mph. If they maintain the pace, how long will it take for them to be one-quarter of a mile apart?

A) $\frac { 1 } { 4 } \mathrm { hr }$
B) $\frac { 1 } { 8 } \mathrm { hr }$
C) $\frac { 1 } { 17 } \mathrm { ht }$
D) $\frac { 1 } { 36 } h$
E) $\frac { 4 } { 17 } \mathrm { hr }$