Anyone who needs to critique grammar mistakes (especially considering I have been typing on my phone) knows that their argument has no foundation. I never remotely implied that this discussion has been going on for "decades", and that is because the fact that it has been prevalent over the last few months IS significant. This specific topic has been discussed on this site, on this forum, ad nauseum, and thus you stating that you were the first to make this suggestion displays your ignorance (there is a search function for a reason).
You agree that it doesn't get bigger than the Olympics, but then act like the Olympics can be outgrown. It is not an some outdated, antiquated event, it is a time-honored tradition. Changing the tradition alters its importance, especially when showing favoritism towards a certain nation (as would be the case if an exception was made solely for the marathon). The fact that one nation doesn't have two of the world's best competing one the Olympic stage is not a flaw of the system, it is a flaw of the governing body of that individual nation. The majesty of The Games is that sweeping the medals is an ultimate display of athletic dominance, savvy, and quality decision making. If Mutai or Makau goes on to set a world record while one of the Olympic team members falters, that is AK's fault, and no one else's.
The marathon may be "different" than other track and field events, supplying Shorter the fame you speak of, but it is not "special" or "different" in the sense that it is no more significant than any other Olympic event, and should not be treated thus. Your argument is ruined with the fact that more people know who Shawn Johnson and Nastia Liukin are than they do Frank Shorter. Shorter's backstory of being born in Munich and winning in Munich, as well as his post-running career also aided in his fame with the general public. Just because it is a glory event does not mean it is "different" in the context of THE OLYMPIC GAMES.
You have NO basis at all to say that Ritz cried because he cares about the marathon most of all. You think he would value a silver medal in the 'thon any more than he would a silver in the 10,000? Don't even act like you know the answer to that one, he'd likely be jumping for joy and screaming like a little kid either way. He has been trying for 4 years to figure out the marathon, with everyone around him telling him he can be the next big thing. Yet, somehow, he simply can't put together a good race over the full 26.2 despite what appears like limitless talent. Don't you think that would be a little frustrating in itself?
Finally, I refer to you as a youngling because it is clear that you lack the intellect, maturity, and reading comprehension to understand what the other posters and I are talking about. I may be old, but I know what I'm talking about, bud.