I have never thought about it in these terms, but the thoughts have crossed my mind several times before. As I was reading an article on Khadevis Robinson, he talked about how he has 2 kids and a wife at home and has never had the luxury of a big contract, personal massage therapists, nutritionists, or the ability to just “hang out in Europe for weeks at a time” but was still determined to compete against the best runners in the world. I just kind of always assumed that everyone who runs a certain time, or at a professional level for a period of time, will have a lifestyle that curtails them to being able to run as fast as possible – without really having to worry about anything else. While this might hold true for some, the overwhelming majority of runners don’t have contracts that do anything more for them than just being able to get by. Of course a handful are showered with the best training facilities and riches of a professional athlete – not to be confused with an NBA/NFL player, but gives them enough money to focus on training and support a family.
This article: http://www.letsrun.com/2011/khadevis-0601.php led into the discussion of Blue Collar vs. White Collar runners. As this was evidenced in Rocky IV (I think) when Rocky takes on that stupid Russian with the fancy equipment, there should be something said for the blue collar guy/girl who puts in a large time training while holding a full time and/or family. While “normal” people should be applauded for maintaining a running routine, and given a standing ovation for a heavier marathon training program, the fact is that a guy like Khadevis is running on an unlevel playing field – and he is still getting it done. Growing up in Nebraska, I was fortunate to see this “blue collar” work on a daily basis and have had the experience of the opposite lifestyle in California for the last few years…not to say that people don’t work hard out here, but let’s just say you will see a lot more individuals going to a $125 pilates class or “running” in their top of the line outfit.
The individuals that have the opportunities to run with the best equipment and coaches should use their resources to the best of their ability – but just remember, that if you don’t have these things at your disposal, there is ALWAYS old fashioned hard work.
Scott Wandzilak
