Look, I get it someone running 2:21 is not a legitimate contender but how does it affect Galen Rupp is 50 more people qualify for the race. Galen is concerned with the people with the top-10 times (if that) and/or fast half qualifiers. Why not just have the trials on the track and invite the top-12 guys at this point?
I train in the northeast with a range of guys from 2:25-2:40. 2:21 seems much more attainable than hitting a 2:18. It gives the sub-elite crowd something to aim for. When you get a bunch of 2:21 qualifiers from small towns you get local stories and people caring about our sport who otherwise would not.
I honestly think the folks in charge have lost touch. It would have been nice to see a 2:22 standard in Houston but at least the race started at a time that made sense in good weather. It seems ridiculous to pick LA knowing that the temps would be awful. This did not grow the sport by trying to be in a big city and starting it later in the day. Ever heard of tape delay? I'm much more encouraged in this sport by watching the 2:25 guy in my group work at it every day and if he popped a 2:21 and made the Trials many more in my community would be. This would grow the sport. Novices can connect more with someone pounding the pavement who has a desk job versus Rupp who has every advantage as a pro runner with Nike.
Are there people we can collectively reach out to about this?
NE Runner