3-5) the most egregious runs, adjusted for elevation, altitude, heat and subsequently compared to world records[/quote]
I wonder how easy it is to demonstrate the final point though, especially since some ultras seem to doubt the existing record too. What do we compare his claims with? I would also be curious to hear what a top east African marathon runner might think of those runs up in the mountains. Either as an individual session of part of a transcons (where they might not have relevant experience).
As far as the huge runs up the mountains, I am surprised that our Ultra running community has not checked in. I know we kid a lot about Ultra guys being good walkers but in all honesty the elite guys can run fast when they want to. And I know some are reading this thread. I wonder if they find it feasable that a 3:11 marathoner would be running similar paced stretches during the middle of a transcon up mountains at elevation?
Another thing. Lets say you are running a 15 mile net down hill run. Are you going to maintain a 6:15 pace on 2-4 mile uphill stretches of 1,000 ft during that run? Seems to me that the pace would slow considerably for every Ultra runner as he conserves energy.
What say ye Ultra dudes?