In response to the story written and posted by xcnation.com,
http://www.xcnation.com/rise_of_the_american.html
Virgin posts on his FB page, "Wow, what a neat article. Yes, I do feel that there has been a resurgence in American distance running in the last decade...but especially in last 4-6 years. I feel it...and I see it. It has been a dream of mine for...... several years to see ...the American men's team back in the top 3 again at the World Championships. I qualified for 10 American World Champion Teams.... of those 10... we finished in 2nd place 5 times...and in 3rd place 2 times...even though we never won. I believe we have the talent in America again....to give the Ethiopians and Kenyans and any other country...a run for the Top 3 Team positions again.... if we can just get our best people to go out for the team...and go to worlds. Many have gone to the U.S. Trials...but opted not to go to Worlds. Why? Often the $$$ involved with a spring marathon appearance fee contract! That's part of the story. The other part is a lack of national pride...and patriotism... like we felt...back in the day. Our guys that used to do well at worlds... almost inevitably had a great summer on the track/roads. Why can't they see that nowadays? Let's get our act together.. and try! Ok?"