We have new tougher standards for the marathon that clearly do not help in the "development" of American distance runners. However I do like the idea of having a 1/2 marathon (and think it does help the development).
So the question is...how many 1:06-1:09 guys will now do Fantana days 1/2 marathon (drop of over 2000 feet I believe) to qualify?
If you ask me, a downhill 1/2 marathon in 1:05 is easier then a downhill 2:22. So it might actually backfire!
I sincerely doubt that counts as one of legal courses for qualification.
The course net drop in elevation can only be so much (don't remember the number) to count and 2000 feet is way above that.
They are using the standards of 30% start point/1% elevation drop with exceptions for courses that are known to be outside the range but generally 'not easy' like Boston and New York City.
26mi235 wrote:
They are using the standards of 30% start point/1% elevation drop
0.1%?
Half Marathon Run Course (13.1 Miles)
* Recognized as the World’s Fastest Half Marathon Course on record by USTF established back in 1985.
* Starting line is at Applewhite Campground in Lytle Creek
* 6 miles of fast, steep downhill running through the scenic San Bernardino National Forest, Lytle Creek Community
* Fast, moderate to gradual downhill course for the remaining 7.3 miles
* Elevation drop of 2,125 feet from start to finish
http://www.fontana.org/main/parks_rec/fontana_run/course_info.htm#co_i