As a 2:21 guy I personally am fired up by the idea of a Chi, NY, Boston trials series.
Sure, its not perfect, but it would be a hell of a lot of fun to throw down in the fall, go out on the town, crack a few beers with the boys, and then do it all over again in mighty Boston, where the prize money will go so DEEP, the crowds will be extra delerious, and the plublicity will be tremendous.
Birmingham was a great experience, the folks down there went out of their way to make us feel comfortable, and the race was fast and decided a great team.
But the media exposure was almost nonexistant.
Look, the gap between the team in training people and us so-called "true-runners" is wide and growing by the day. I am of the opinion that in order for this sport to survive into the mid-decades of this century we need to tap into the enthusiasm of all of those folks who are willing for whatever reason to run a five hour marathon. If all that takes is having them run over the same course on the same day that someone(Meb, Culpepper, Miles and Miles?) is chosen for the olympic team, so be it.
The three way trials will provide great exposure, will bring in three ultra-professionally managed races with big bucks and great competition, and will be a hell of a lot of fun for those willing to sac-up, get the qualifier, show up ready to race, and be willing to take the risk to try something new.
Bring it on. Jim, Fred, and Glenn you have my full support.
-Nate Bowen