Hard to say on this one. I know there is a feeling in this country that some of our young athletes have their hands out for a "freebie" before they earn it.
In some ways I think Jack would say fine, If sponsorhip is there take it. But on the other I feel he would say No ! you need to have something outside running.
The only help he got was really only shoes and the odd track suit.
I maybe wrong here and I never discussed it with him but I believe he was offered a job at Nike in the late 70's early 80's. He even travelled over to the US and looked at it.
It was a good deal and all the time in the world to run. But he came home and said it was not for him. He returned to his little office job here in Rotorua and stayed there until he retired.
I believe things are relative as well. The running boom of the 70's/ 80's changed the face of everything for ever.
Especially the variety of equipment available.
I know I have never paid full price for a pair of running shoes since I graduated from College in 77. I either know someone in the trade or am put onto good deals before the public.
However, getting back to earning your way. I distinctly remember John Walker selling his car and cashing in everything in order to try and make a name for himself in Europe in 1973. He managed to get into meets with the help of Dick Quax and ended that European season with a 1:46.3 800 and a 3:38 1500.
He returned home to his ordinary Quarry job. There were no hand outs. He then managed to pick up a sales job with a Radio station 4 months later. But that still involved working.
That was a standard lifestyle for an athlete in New Zealand at that time.
Jack was no different.
But I also believe that having to earn your way adds a little "Hardness" to the athlete.
Does any of this make sense !!