Yeah, I guess we better get rid of the steeplechase in track too.
Charlie Vause, not mentioned as a favorite to win said with 1k to go he thought he had a chance to win. Personally, I think he was physically stronger for those conditions than the others and he knew it. Not sure what the other guys were thinking at any point in the race. The Oregon kid hung it out there and did his best to lead or hang with the leaders most of the way finishing 11th. He probably really didnt belong there either since his credentials coming into the race werent as stellar as many others.
So, between those two guys alone, Id have to go with the fact that they werent there to complain about not ideal conditions and just did their best with the cards dealt to them. Most of tbose athletes probably did the same.
It's unfortunate that some, OP and a few others, here just dont see it their way. Id say you probably just didnt get a well rounded experience with the sport and that's ok. But Im just curious as to why you want to push your values on their experience that they had. IF you were there, in the race, then Id say you have a right to complain. Nobody would probably listen to you seriously though. Face it, some people dont like sunny, hot and humid conditions either but it happens. Some people like it to be absolutely miserable and pray for the worse scenario because they know there are soft folk that wont be able to handle it mentally.
I would think you would have a bigger argument for 3rd or 4th place teams at some regionals being much better that some region champions. Oh, wait, which team was top 3 but got beat at state or which team had to get an at large bid and still made podium?
And all you want is a dry, flat course to produce record times by the obvious favorites. Oh, wait, that happened too. Damn! You need to find something else to complain about.
PS. Congratulations to all who were there, YOU earned it and will always remember it! Spectators: thank you for slopping around the course to support your favorite runners and teams, even those who didnt have their best day!!!
Looking forward to next year! See you in Portland, OR for a great tradition! Thanks Phil for the opportunity!!!