a full time, pro runner with a pr of 2:10 or..
an amateur runner with a full time job who cranks out 2:20 marathons in his spare time.
a full time, pro runner with a pr of 2:10 or..
an amateur runner with a full time job who cranks out 2:20 marathons in his spare time.
I think the guy with the full time job who runs 2:20 is light years more impressive.
Any ped riddled pro athlete can run a 2:10.
An amatuer who runs 2:15 in their spare time.
I'd say the pro runner with a pr of 2:10. He took the chance and quit his job to see how good he could be. 2:20 while working full time is awesome, but maybe, just maybe he could really have been great if he committed full time. You don't need to not work at all and run 24/7, but you really need to have a lighter work load or at least a super flexible work schedule to see what you can really run.
Its a tough call - I'm a low 2:20s guy and work full time, but I have too much going on in my life to quit and see what I can really get down too. I definitly give props to those who go after it 100% though. I was like that right out of college, but now I'm more of a give everything I can when I have time kind of runner.
I say the 2 10 marathoner, because the 2 20 marathoner is trying to make himself look good on lets run by makin exscuses to why he ran 2 20. Just run
the pro. he had the guts to go for it, 100%. when you line up for a race they don't give handicaps for how many hours you work, if you are married, have kids, are rich or poor. It is the 220 guys choice to work full time. Deal with it.
signed
222 guy who worked full time and won't make excuses. (my choice)