Finally an intelligent response. You are right, protocols definitely matter (I have experimented with every imaginable TRT dose, frequency, ester and form coupled with spending far too much time on TRT forums).
But for TRT to make a difference in athletic performance, you need supraphysiologic levels. To get there you need higher doses that inevitably cause side effects, many of which are detrimental to distance running (versus explosive activities like sprinting, lifting, etc.).
I am not making excuses for doping master runners or commenting on the ethics of it. My point is that exogenous testosterone is the not the drug of choice for male distance running dopers. Nandrolone is far more anabolic and effective. And of course, nothing touches EPO (which is also readily available if you look hard enough).
Seems like there are far too many masters runners blaming TRT every time they get smoked in a race. TRT ain't the boogeyman you think it is. If of you don't believe me, try it as an experiment and report back. I would genuinely be interested in your results.