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I started running Marathons in 1975. Ran 15 until 1987 including breaking 3 hours and qualifying and running Boston.
My life got busy and I didn't start running races again until last year when I turned 60. I did notice the change in the crowds especially the number and ability of women. When I completed the Houston Marathon in 1975 there were a couple of hundred finishers and maybe 4 women. Now more men than women finish and I think that is great. They have no impact on my performance, only my training and program impacts my performance.
For me, it has always been about me vs. me and how I do in my gender/age group. I think anyone who finishes a Marathon deserves admiration - even if they walk. Twenty-six point two is a long distance no matter how you cover it - even in a car.
So as a 62 year old who has run all my life, my take is to live and let live and celebrate your own successes and determination, which really has no impact on anyone else just as they have no impact on you.
