Some of us who have been running for a while have more connection with the history and top runners. Often, the newcomers are about their own running and not interested in the accomplishments of those at the top. That seems to be what made R&R withdraw elite appearance money. It seems they don't even want to bother with the top competitors, just make it a running picnic. An expensive running picnic.
I don't have a stake in this--there's zero chance of my getting appearance money for a race (unless it's to persuade me to appear elsewhere on race day). ;)
Yet for me it's a matter of appreciating mastery. For instance, if I were to study music without listening to the greats, I think my learning would be impoverished. Same with a lot of pursuits. If you're going to do something, why not learn from and appreciate the best?
It seems to me that we who are further back owe that kind of respect to the top achievers.