Although the Runner’s World writer mixes Norwegian and Dutch soccer players as I’d they are one and the same, the study found that elite Norwegian soccer players have the same VO2 max as 2:36 marathoners. The key is probably youth and health, and lots of conditioning.
Category: running (Page 2 of 2)
Amby Burfoot from Runner’s World writes a thoughtful essay on the aftermath of the cancellation of the New York Marathon. I thought it would go on, should go on, but I don’t live there and was not running New York. I understand some of the reasons for why it eventually was cancelled at the last minute, but not some of strong emotion behind those against the initial decision.
I think the decision to cancel came a little late; if there was any doubt, cancel it earlier, rather than in the middle of the anti-runner sentiment that arose after Mayor Bloomberg said to proceed with the event. The ramifications of the cancellation next year and beyond for all runners will be huge. Those who showed up in New York from elsewhere, especially outside the US, must feel somewhat angry and disappointed. Hopefully the anti-runner sentiment will not bleed over into other events.
Watched this great documentary on TV tonight about Navajo and Hopi (and non-native) high school cross country runners. Funded in part by Kickstarter, which has some great projects. Amazing how much work these kids put into running. They don’t look fast, but the camera is deceiving, as they post some fast times.
I’m probably in the minority, but unlike Christine Brennan in USA Today and elsewhere, I don’t think New York should cancel the New York Marathon in the aftermath of hurricane Sandy. I am not registered for that marathon, nor do I live in the New York area, but I think putting on the marathon is vital for the area’s mental recovery, however, “non-essential” people may deem the act of running 26.2 miles through the five boroughs. There are certain economic benefits, but if there are goals like getting runners on Staten Island for the start, and clearing downed trees, then maybe the marathon will push those goals to fruition. Then again, I could be totally wrong and Sunday may end up being a logistical nightmare for all involved. But consider this, what would happen if the event was cancelled? Calls for refunds would flood web sites and the NYRR offices, next year would be full before registration began, and the cancellation this year would ripple through the marathon for several years.
Interesting article at the Wall Street Journal about older runners completing marathons. I finished my first marathon at age 44, though I’d been running all my life. I just never ran with purpose until much later, and it took a couple of years of serious training before I attempted a marathon. I’ve dealt with one persistent foot injury, despite careful training. Just goes to show you can’t control everything.
I’m strongly considering entering the Shiner half-marathon event. Long drive, but an unusual venue.
