The sports that look monocultural from the outside only widen when someone already at the front says out loud who else belongs — and a UTMB win is about as loud as it gets. The starting line moved because of a "mission statement" — it takes one honest profile at a time — So outstanding that you ran this.
It's hard enough to figure out how "to do me" even without the burden of representing others. Very complex position that I don't envy for either of you, and such a beautiful opportunity at the same time.
Really enjoying all your perspectives on UTMB and this interview. I too felt that the quote about the bridges athletes might be expected to build brings up a lot of questions.
Loved that you asked Ben these brief but oh-so valuable questions. As a South African, I can also often tell when a surname may make someone from South Africa or Nigeria or Kenya, and I always want to know more about their African heritage. Often there isn't a lot of space dedicated to that. Here's to getting to know more about the athletes we love!
Ben was my pick (hope?) this year. I would be an awful analyst because I always pick based on who I would be happiest to see win. He delivered and your perspective on him took it one further.
This is fantastic. Well done, Raz.
Thanks, Mario
The sports that look monocultural from the outside only widen when someone already at the front says out loud who else belongs — and a UTMB win is about as loud as it gets. The starting line moved because of a "mission statement" — it takes one honest profile at a time — So outstanding that you ran this.
If it leads to the next journalist writing an article about him centering that important aspect, my job is done.
“I don’t actually know how to bridge that gap between me doing me and then me also trying to represent a group of people.”
That is a quote.
Can't quite find the words to express all the ways it hits for me, but for him and others in his position I imagine it is a heavy position to be in.
Yep. That's the one that I stumbled on. Partly because I'm trying to figure it out for myself to some extent.
It's hard enough to figure out how "to do me" even without the burden of representing others. Very complex position that I don't envy for either of you, and such a beautiful opportunity at the same time.
Really enjoying all your perspectives on UTMB and this interview. I too felt that the quote about the bridges athletes might be expected to build brings up a lot of questions.
THANK U for this
Loved that you asked Ben these brief but oh-so valuable questions. As a South African, I can also often tell when a surname may make someone from South Africa or Nigeria or Kenya, and I always want to know more about their African heritage. Often there isn't a lot of space dedicated to that. Here's to getting to know more about the athletes we love!
I love that you opened this door, seemingly even for Ben himself.
Ben was my pick (hope?) this year. I would be an awful analyst because I always pick based on who I would be happiest to see win. He delivered and your perspective on him took it one further.
Going off vibes is great when, like you, you know your shit.
Enjoyed reading about your conversation with Ben.
Thanks Jenn
Great one, Raz!
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Love this!!
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