I think that it is a bit of apples and oranges when comparing track/road races to ultras. Specifically because of the length of ultras and the fueling requirements, and the terrin differences. Running fast on a flat MONDO track is way different than having to travel on rocky unstable ground (some of the time in the dark...).
My primary interest in running (or track and field more broadly, for that matter) is ultra distance and I would love to see the talent pool grow. However, rather than belittle the accomplishments of those who toe the line, I choose to acknowledge that they are simply the best to have actually completed the chosen task. At least some portion, though certainly not all, of world class competition would undoubtedly lack the courage, stamina, fortitude (mental, intestinal, or otherwise), to race a mountain ultra. And above all, I’m sorry, but there is a 0% chance Courtney is doping.
What's with the flippant Courtney is doping statement? Do you have more elsewhere to support that? It seems somewhat contradictory to claim she's doping and also not that impressive in the scope of distance running.
I have always felt that ultramarathoning, especially for women is a way to camoflage eating disorders/exercise addiction with the veneer of elite competition. I am amazed anyone competing at the top of this sport doesn't readily admit that if any real runners cared to bother, they would crush the existing competition. Again, this isn't to say some feats in this sport aren't perversely impressive (sub 7:00 pace for 100 miles is impressive for its sadomasochistic charm) but in terms of fitness proper monetary incentivization would see tons of times like this.
Haha some really harsh words but I loved reading this.
I think that it is a bit of apples and oranges when comparing track/road races to ultras. Specifically because of the length of ultras and the fueling requirements, and the terrin differences. Running fast on a flat MONDO track is way different than having to travel on rocky unstable ground (some of the time in the dark...).
My primary interest in running (or track and field more broadly, for that matter) is ultra distance and I would love to see the talent pool grow. However, rather than belittle the accomplishments of those who toe the line, I choose to acknowledge that they are simply the best to have actually completed the chosen task. At least some portion, though certainly not all, of world class competition would undoubtedly lack the courage, stamina, fortitude (mental, intestinal, or otherwise), to race a mountain ultra. And above all, I’m sorry, but there is a 0% chance Courtney is doping.
What's with the flippant Courtney is doping statement? Do you have more elsewhere to support that? It seems somewhat contradictory to claim she's doping and also not that impressive in the scope of distance running.
I have always felt that ultramarathoning, especially for women is a way to camoflage eating disorders/exercise addiction with the veneer of elite competition. I am amazed anyone competing at the top of this sport doesn't readily admit that if any real runners cared to bother, they would crush the existing competition. Again, this isn't to say some feats in this sport aren't perversely impressive (sub 7:00 pace for 100 miles is impressive for its sadomasochistic charm) but in terms of fitness proper monetary incentivization would see tons of times like this.