Notes
Today was the first time running in La Crosse since Thanksgiving. It always feels a little different running back home than it does running in Madison. It is difficult to explain but I would say that the athletic endurance culture is just a little bit different.
In La Crosse there always only a few runners out on the trails/sidewalks/roads. Most of the runners are the middle-aged just trying to stay in shape type. In Madison there are always many more runners/bikers out and many of these athletes are of the "hardcore" category. I think the reason for this is two-fold: 1. The presence of a major university and 2. the iron man competition.
1. UW madison draws in great runners from around the country to compete for national championships. When I was younger I used to pass by the likes of Chris Solinsky (current USA 10k record holder) on running trails and give him the well known nod. I think seeing runners of this caliber around town motivates everybody. People see the success of these great runners and figure they can have a little bit of success themselves. More recently around Madison it is common to cross paths with some of the sub-4-minute milers that competed at the American championships this past year. I think when these runners set the standard then other runners fell they should "step up to the plate."
2. I also think that many people don't understand how big of a deal it was to get the Ironman in Madison. Madison had to bid for this race against other large cities in the country. Due to great leadership in the race organizers Madison was able to secure this huge event. Having this race has altered the culture of Madison. Many people that would never have decided to attempt a full Ironman have decided to attempt this event just because it is in their back yard. These participants have dedicated a large part of their life to training for this race. Some of these athletes are of the "hardcore" type as well.
I guess this is just an observation I made and the 2 reasons I think account for this observation. Maybe there are reasons that I am not even considering. You tell me!!