Runner's World Survey Results

I've been busy lately and haven't had the chance to post in the last couple of days. However, I just got the chance to read Runner's World's 2006 Survey results. (I would link to them if they were online... you'll have to pick up a copy of the December issue to read them in full detail.

I have to say that I am surprised by some of the results. Chariots of Fire is the number one favorite movie, followed by Prefontaine. I'm not shocked by Chariots taking the top spot. It's hard to argue with an Academy Award winning picture. But, Prefontaine? Do people not know about Without Limits, the Prefontaine biopic starring Billy Crudup? I've seen both and have to say that, while it takes some liberties with parts here and there, the racing scenes are much more captivating, using orignal footage from 1972 and Billy plays a much more convincing Rock Star of the 70s, for help check out Almost Famous as well. And I can't forget Donald Sutherland's portrayal of the legendary Bill Bowerman. He manages to convey the man with a hard nosed attitude and yet still show the compassionate side of the man who helped found Nike and mentored many young men into adult in his tenure at the University of Oregon.

Speaking of Nike, I was pleasantly surprised at the results of what Americans wore when running. Asics was the top shoe brand, followed by New Balance, Nike, Brooks, and Saucony. Its refreshing to see that the readers of the magazine are runners who want fit more than flash. Aside from Nike, the other four brands don't run massive campaigns or entice the top runners with multi million dollar sponsorships. They design and produce top quality shoes that meet the needs of the average joe runner and the elite athletes. It ties in to another result: 80% of respondents purchase shoes based on fit.

Again, pick a copy if you are interested in running. The methodology of the survey: Conducted over a 3 month period, worldwide respondents: 10,005, US respondents: 2,975. spilt approx. 51% Female, 49% Male.

Please rent both Prefontaine and Without Limits and tell me which one you think is better...