flyingmonkey wrote:
He probably just wanted to make the team. And it's hot.
Yeah, people forget that nationals is a qualifying race for the World Championships team. It's not a be all end all. Fisher tried to win a national championship and ended up not making the WC team. He'd likely be going to Budapest if he just ran to finish top 3. Run to make the team. The downside is too great to risk what Fisher tried.
Winning the national championships triggers bonuses in the contract. The narrative that this meet is just to qualify is incorrect. Winning will get you more $$.
Dudewhat? wrote:
Winning the national championships triggers bonuses in the contract. The narrative that this meet is just to qualify is incorrect. Winning will get you more $.
There is generally also a financial incentive to make USA teams. I agree that people trying to make it in two events ie. Klecker, monson are happy just to qualify in 10k.
Now if it was $1million to win and $100k for second that might perk more interest.
He looked awful through the middle of the race, he did the right thing. Job done.
A Tinman, a Strawman or a Cowardly Lion? wrote:
For 21 laps he was never better than 7th. Only in the last 4 laps was he 5th or better. As as casual observer, it appears he never put himself in a position to win. Why? Was he afraid, no guts, no balls, or a coward?
Without a plan, plan to fail.
I am always amazed at these inane comments I read on Let's Run. Why did this or that runner do something different like take the lead with 400 meters left and run the speed out of the sprinter? And stuff like that. I am guessing these never competed in world class running or maybe any competition. Those people beside you are trying just as hard to beat you as you are trying to beat them.
Do you really think he had magic finger that he can snap and propel himself to first or second? Strategy or tactics has a place in racing but you can only do what your legs let you do and you always have to contend with the other guy running his guts out also.