Jonathan Gault wrote:
reely? wrote:
So basically you overreacted with the hysterical click bait thread, didn't get an answer from USATF which made any sense as your first response to the email should have been to question how the rankings fit in and now you're going to the mat to defend your click bait thread.
1. I don't think we overreacted because if we are interpreting USATF's response correctly, it will have a major impact on the Trials. Multiple elite US coaches have already contacted us worried about the new system and its implications. They think it's a big deal and so do we.
2. We got an answer from USATF, and it made sense to me. I asked a ton of questions in my initial email to Susan, including how the world rankings fit in. She did not answer any of my questions directly and instead provided a statement on behalf of USATF. And again, I didn't feel it was necessary to follow up to the email immediately because it seemed obvious to me how the world rankings fit in -- and that was that they would not fit into USATF's selection process at all unless there's an event in which fewer than three athletes have the Olympic standard.
3. This isn't a click-bait thread, it's a serious discussion about a potentially massive decision that impacts the most important track & field meet in the country. And yes, I'm going to defend my position because I believe I'm correct.
1. Even if interpreting USATF's response correctly, calling this a "travesty" is overreacting. In a few cases athletes without the new standards will miss out of the olympics when they have otherwise made it before. This is not a travesty by any means. There is no reason why the US should not have at least 3 runners with the qualifying in any event going forward. What would be a travesty is our top runners suck so bad that we don't have at least several with the new standard.
3. They hyperbole used by calling this an "absolute travesty" is absolutely click-bait. Yes, faster standards impacts the most important track & field meet in the country, but it doesn't affect it that much. The meet as it is, is a bit overrated. Non track nerds barely watch it as it is. If anything is a travesty is that they haven't worked to make the meet a lot more appealing. Put all the finals on one day. Who cares if it limits the chance for some athletes to double. Changes should be made for the fans, not the athletes. Eliminated the 5k/10k from the olympics and replace it with and obstacle course race. Get rid of shot and discuss and jav and replace them with the middle of the stadium crossfit style competition. Or wresting/track. Let's put asses in the seats!