(19-08-2011, 11:36 PM)Mid Life Crisis Man Wrote: Some great names mentioned there ... and (perhaps not) funnily enough the last three white world marathon record holders (De Castella / Jones / Lopes) before the Africans pretty much took control of things.
De Castella made a rare(ish) appearance to fire the gun at the City2Surf last Sunday. Nice to see the great man again. And his words of wisdom to the assembled masses? "Pace yourself" and "stay hydrated"! See? This running lark is pretty simple. 
On seciond thoughts I don’t actually remember seeing De Castella run. I only remember my dad and uncle talking about him in reverential tones. Lopes was the first marathon runner I do really remember along with Steve Jones and Spedding. Also remember that Steve Jones was a heavy smoker in his youth.
These runners were tough but were not always as naturally talented as athletes in other disciplines. Today the African guys are mentally tough (more hardships to face from day one) and naturally talented as well. Only when the African youth are stuffing themselves with Happy-Meals and going to school in mum’s car every day will the European marathon runner ever become competitive again
And well done on the big race, I’ve just read the report.
Glaconman looking sharp too!
Eat My Dust August
