I wouldn't consider myself an expert on the subject, but I don't think most 100 mile runs aren't run at a pace that will leave anyone gasping. The distance is the challenge, not the oxygen intake.
I wouldn't consider myself an expert on the subject, but I don't think most 100 mile runs aren't run at a pace that will leave anyone gasping. The distance is the challenge, not the oxygen intake.
If you have to have conversion help to attain minimum entry standards then you do not meet the standard. At a national level we should be looking to make standards harder not easier. Do we need strong support for the sub-elite runners... Yes. A National program of sub-elite development is important so runners like you can compete against their peers and use as a springboard to the elite ranks. While making the USATF Nationals is a fine goal it becomes less of an accomplishmewnt if we lower the standards.. Expanding entries is not the way to promote our sport. In todays climate we must made our Championships fan friendly and that means shorter time in the stands(or making it more TV friendly) and better performances. It is a shame that runners who ALMOST meet the standards don't get to go BUT that is why we have those standards to separate the best from the almost.
East of java wrote:
I can see where you're coming from, but I'd be uncomfortable with having someone's qualifying time based not on what he ran, but on what he "would have run if..."
I share the opS frustration the if you live at altitude you are forced to travel to quailify. As the old saw goes- that's just the way the cookie crumbles.
Tangent thought- While I'm a supporter of womans rights and being equal in job availibility and pay I watched a Policeperson(5foot 3"ish) be relieved of her weapon by a big sloppy drunk. Bystanders "wrestled the suspect to the ground" and prevented a less that ideal situation from developing. This really gave second thoughts to what lowering the standards to permit a wider range of people/ sexes on the job meant to my safety as a citizen.
I wish the OP good luck in getting the standard>
JustAGuy wrote:
How bold of you to speak on behalf of an entire population.
One sweeping generalization deserves another.