Frank Shorter-Grete Weitz Were Key to Marathoning in U.S.

Frank Shorter-Grete Weitz Were Key to Marathoning in U.S.
by dillon77 (2024-04-17 14:25:42)
Edited on 2024-04-17 14:27:20

In reply to: The Clark Effect - Aggressive expansion. (link) posted by usaf_irish

Post Reply Return to McGraw's Bench

When Shorter won in the Olympics, many young, long distance runners like myself upped their training to LSD (long slow distance, as coined by Arthur Lydiard, the New Zealand coach) and started half- and full marathons.

The late, great Fred Lebow used Grete Weitz and the NYC Marathon to push long-distance road races in the U.S.

For my colleagues in New England, I'll add Shorter's buddy, Bill Rodgers and in the Mid-Atlantic, the late, great Tom Fleming, who won two NY marathons and was a hugely influential guy with local running clubs, which helped galvinize the area.

Add Jim Fixx

Pretty influential book at the time

Good Point...

I was already running at the time and paid attention to the runners/coaches.

But you're right: Fixx introduced/inspired/taught people.

Sad early death *

Add Marty Liquori (Montclair, Cedar Grove, Essex Catholic). *

Pre!! Dave Wottle wearing Ratty Golf Cap in Olympics *