I disagree, they won't remember Centrowitz anymore than Webb, if not less.In 20 years, they will have forgotten who won in 2016 and his name, except for those who are really into the sport. But say the name Alan Webb, and you'll get a different response. The difference from back then to now was no social media, plain and simple.
Devil Dog wrote:
RockyMountainHigh wrote:Respectfully, not to those who are "really" into running.
I remember Steve Scott, his PR that Webb broke, and him running in the Olympics. It doesn't matter to me that he didn't win the gold medal.
To me, one race doesn't make or break a runner, even the Olympics. All of the races and records in between those 4 years do matter.
Opinions on that will surely vary, but that's my opinion.
Ryun was the very first high school boy under 4, set multiple world records, was a top international competitor for decade, and won an olympic silver medal. He's earned a place in history and your memory.
Alan Webb set the American record in the mile. A very good achievement. He's one of just three men to hold that title in the last 50 years. But 50 years from now, when someone stumbles on his name, they'll say, "Alan Webb? Who's that guy?"
The very same way we today may question the name Jim Grelle. A lot of people are going to google it right now. And he had an even better career than Webb.
Centro on the other hand, with his Olympic gold (backed up by multiple world championships medals) will go down in the annals of greats.