183: Is Athletics A Dying Sport? (And Can We Save It)

The episode opens with a discussion about Hoka's Clifton Pro shoes and upcoming autumn races. The hosts share their enthusiasm for a new training initiative within The Running Channel Club. They then delve into Josh Kerr's recent mile world record and the accompanying $50,000 prize money, questioning how this compares to compensation in other sports and if it properly reflects the achievement. The hosts explore the historical context of athlete earnings and how the media plays a role in shaping perceptions of professional athletics.

As their conversation unfolds, they reflect on their personal experiences and the evolution of prize money and sponsorship in athletics over the years. The episode highlights the difficulties many athletes face when seeking financial stability and how the sport has changed, with some athletes earning considerably less than their counterparts in other sports despite similar achievements. They also discuss potential improvements in athlete compensation structures leading up to the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The conversation shifts towards personal anecdotes, including Andy's running experiences during a family holiday in France, where he engaged with a podcast listener, and Rick and Sarah's respective training goals. The hosts conclude with a lighter note regarding training tips and personal updates, encouraging listener engagement through social media.