Which is more admirable? Mile/5K WR Question.

[EPelle]

Which of the two world records is more admirable: the 3.43,13 mile or the 12.37,35 5k?

Is it tougher to run 1,609 meters at 55,47 (13,87/100m) pace? Or 5,000 meters at 60,59 (15,15/100m) pace?

Is it tougher to run 1.51,66y twice without stopping? Or, in your opinion, is it harder to run 2.01,2 six times and change without stopping?

There are two members of the sub-3.44-club... and there are three members of the sub-12.40 club. In five years time, will there be more athletes in the sub-3.43 club or more in the sub-12.40 club?

[Jon]

Re: Which is more admirable? Mile/5K WR Question.

On the mercier scoring tables, the 5k record comes out on top:

http://desert.jsd.claremont.edu/~newt/track/Mercier/

A 12:37.30 5k is "worth" a 3:41.72 mile.

[EPelle]

Re: Which is more admirable? Mile/5K WR Question.

Yes, indeed. I knew this would come out. However, in your opinion, which is the greater, more admirable?

[Mr. Plod]

Re: Which is more admirable? Mile/5K WR Question.

They are all amazing to me. I would be happy to run a single half mile in 1:51.66.

[kuha]

Re: Which is more admirable? Mile/5K WR Question.

Heck, I'd be happy to run a mile in 12:37...%-)

Actually, I haven't done the math, but it's my distinct impression that the current 1500 record is at least a half-second better (relatively) than the mile record...

[EPelle]

Re: Which is more admirable? Mile/5K WR Question.

Jons link to the reference chart upholds your judgment: a 3.26,00 is equivalent on the scale to a 3.42,57 mile. So if are talking round numbers (i.e.: 1,500m and 5,000m), which is the greater in your opinion?

[macncc]

Re: Which is more admirable? Mile/5K WR Question.

I believe that it is much like the 100m and 200m records. Many fans know of the competitors in the 100m and of that particular record. But the 200m record much overlooked. That time is nearly a generation ahead of where it should be. Whereas the 5k record isn't a generation ahead, but an amazing feat none the less. It just simply doesn't get the publicity that the 1500 or mile athletes will and do.