Part of our work at BTG - Running The World involves breaking down stereotypes about just who runs in this world. For example, Kate and I often encounter the assumption that the typical runner is a mid-30s American male professional who's more about getting miles under his feet rather than mistresses in his . . . but that's another story.
And it's not even true one. According to RunningUSA's 2009 State of the Sport report, American running demographics are split pretty evenly. 48% of weekly runners have xx chromosomes, while 53% of running event participants - and finishers - are women. The average age for these "core" women long-distance runners is 39.4. Their preferred race distance? Half-marathons.
When it comes to the international side of things, there is some surprising news to be found too. Of the world's six largest marathons in 2009, only two - New York and Chicago - took place on American soil. The REAL Berlin Marathon was the second-largest in the world, with 35,746 participants, and it was followed closely by Flora London with 34,603. Paris and Tokyo rounded out this elite racing class with approximately 28,000 and 26,000 participants, respectively. And, with over 37,000 participants already registered for its April 2010 extravaganza, it looks like Paris has gained a second wind and is looking to gain the title of the largest race in the world.
Anyway. All this is to say that, the next time someone tells you that running is something that overactive good ol' boys do, just nod and smile. The universe is far wider than our views of it, and individuals of all backgrounds, races, and nationalities are aware that the best way to check it out is by foot. At a steady pace. For several kilometers at a time.
Posts
0 comments:
Post a Comment