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Wow that was the most thoughtful Substack I read this week! Nice job. Your post makes me ponder the biggest sports fan I know, my almost-22-year-old son. He's fanatic about following the Avalanche team, even though he himself doesn't play hockey; he also follows the Broncos, Rockies, and is obsessed with the PGA. But, he would have no interest in sports like running or cycling that are about crossing the finish line first. He's intrigued by teamwork and individual skills that have less to do with pure strength or speed, like chipping onto a green, which doping wouldn't help. He also follows the character storylines and business deals behind the sports. I think running will always be a less interesting spectator sport and attract fewer fans because while we runners can appreciate (or be skeptical of) elite runners' times, the sport lacks teamwork and individual acrobatics. I'm passionate about running, but a while ago stopped subscribing to Fast Women, even though it's an excellent newsletter, because I just don't care that much about top-tier competition. Not sure what that means for the sport and belief in it, but thought I'd share that point of view for what it's worth. Sure wish I could be there for the Lake Merritthon!

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