I'm so sad over this and still in shock. I feel strange expressing how devastated I feel to people that do not follow the sport or were not familiar with David.
I started following him via letsrun and flotrack when I got to college around 2007. I remember watching the video of him breaking 4 as a senior at Cal. I've pretty much seen every one of his races and interviews since.
He's inspired me in so many ways. I love to run and love to train. I love learning about fitness and new ways to improve - especially in terms of form/neuromuscularly. I was so inspired by all of David's publicized work with Dan Pfaff, Cook, Ponsonby, Leo Manzano, hopping in many training groups to learn etc.
I loved the way he raced. Webb, Ritz, Hall, Lagat, Manzano, Teg, Solinsky get credit for the resurgence of US distance running. Torrence can arguably be in the convo and he is undoubtedly a huge reason the US is so deep. 1:45.1/3:33/1316 is all time great. He was never the clear favorite but always in the hunt in any race. His impact on the T&F as a pure competitor should not be understated.
Lastly his personality and vibe/charisma was infectious. I think that's why I'm so affected by this loss although I didn't know him personally. His spirit and good nature was contagious and inspiring. He seemed like the most chill, friendly, warm, California guy ever. I'm going to live my life inspired by David Torrence and try to be a better person.