ranbarts2 wrote:
As a native Michigander (Michiganian), I would love to see Hanson's expand and succeed but I don't see it happening. Yes, I like the fact that they are clean or drug free. One thing to consider is the hostile winter climate in Michigan. Not good for serious distance running. In Southeast Michigan, there are no significant elevation changes. Maybe 300 to 500 feet max. No altitude, max is 1100 ft near by.
If I were a 2:10 to 2:15 marathoner in my early or mid 20s, I'd head west and join the big boys.
I think Hanson's will have moderate success in the future. I have also noticed that they have a moderate turn over, thus many do not remain with them very long.
You must not have lived in Michigan last winter when it hardly reached below 20-30 degrees. The training here is fine, a little snow never hurt anyone. Nothing good goes on during the winter anyway for a marathoner.