The biggest deal in U.S. Marathoning. The opportunity for dreamers and other fools to chase an arbitrary mark for inclusion in the selection race for the U.S. Olympic Team.
It is what sparked my lifetime involvement in distance running. First as an athlete (one of the fools) trying to take a minute per mile off my personal best. When it became obvious it wasn’t to be I shifted gears towards providing Best Racing Opportunities for those with a Real Chance. Designing courses and creating races with a focus on fast. Putting the giddy into the Giddyup! Built a 40 year career on that model.
In 1996 I accepted the offer to Chair USATF’s Women’s Long Distance Running Athlete Development Program. WLDR Chair Carol McLatchie extended the invitation. The next 6 years spent studying my superiors, colleagues and peers. Prepped for the WLDR National Championships Chair position, dutifully served from 2002-2010. Served as USA Team Leader for two International Ekidens and two World Champs Half Marathons.
Solicited and entertained bids for our USA National Championships. Helped build the USATF Club Championships and Elite Development Club programs. Working with the USATF National Office in Indy.
Served a minor role at the 2004 St. Louis Women’s USA Olympic Trials Marathon. Worked alongside the maestro, Dave McGillivray, learning from the very best. Gaining further insight as part of the 2008 Olympic Trials Site Selection Committee, ultimately awarded to Boston.
I’m reading what is happening with the 2024 USA Olympic Trials Marathon bidding controversy. The central figure someone I’m deeply familiar with, a former colleague. Our work spanning countries and decades, culminating in the 2021 Valley ONE Marathon in fact.
Things I’m thinking about this Monday morning. A personal and unique perspective.
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