diane.augustin wrote:
Everyone has his/her dream. If you are fortunate enough to possess the talent to attempt to run for a living, than you should definitely go for it while you are young enough to do so. Otherwise, later in life, you may regret not giving it a shot. I ran professionally straight out of college, and although I wasn't always the fastest on the starting line, I did manage to eek out a living for 10+ years. While it was neither easy, nor glamourous, I had the peace of mind to know that I was fulfilling my dreams and my potential. Along the way, I continued my education and worked full time, realizing that my running career was not forever. I am now gainfully employed and enjoying my life, while still running every day for fitness. To each his/her own, I say, and do what YOU want to do, not what others think you should do.
Well said. I would be everyone who's criticizing the professional running lifestyle is a bitter 4HLer (four hour lifer, desk jockey who gets home from work at 6pm and have to get to bed by 10 so they can leave by 6-7am). Now obviously someone who only focuses on running during and after college is going to have a very low earning potential the rest of their life but it's not like the average American 4HL lifestyle is that great either.