One of the most interesting things about ultra running is the lightening rod effect Dean Karnazes has on the sport. The guy is not considered by many to be an elite runner in the sport (although he has won races) yet he attracts more attention than most if not all of the “elite” runners. What is the beef here? Dean makes money in a sport that is not considered a money maker? Or is it just the media attention? Since money follows the media my guess is its all about the money.
Which brings me to this post. For those ultra runners who complain about Dean, you should stop for a second to remember that every company selling you products is making money off of you! That’s right, you! PROFIT. Take a look at Montrail for a minute. Glance through their “team” member websites. Everyone of them – hook, line and sinker – is pitching the product. They're even pitching the Montrail website! So who is in it for the money? Why do we have sponsors in our sport? Why do runners seek sponsors? For the money! Is there a line between sponsored “elite” runners and Dean?
Of course ultra runners that win the races should get most of the media attention and the money. But when you think about the general population who think running 100 miles is a throw back to Forest Gump and read People Magazine for the news, are you surprised they don’t?
Like the Joker once said, “Never rub a man’s rhubarb".
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