Induction needs greater support

They held the National Distance Running Hall of Fame inductions Saturday at the Masonic Home.

Again, not enough people were there.

Priscilla Welch, Amby Burfoot and the late Johnny Hayes were inducted into the Utica-based Hall of Fame. As always, master of ceremonies Larry Rawson did a great job, and, once again, it was just terrific.

You didn’t have to be a runner or have any interest in road racing, cross country or track and field to get something out of the show. The honorees – 1972 Olympic gold medalist Frank Shorter spoke on behalf of Hayes – had great and inspirational stories to tell. They always do. You can get pumped up about anything, life in general, listening to them.

This year’s turnout, at a small auditorium at the Masonic Care Community, wasn’t bad, but it should have been three times better. It’s a great show, one anyone can learn from.

The point is this – runner, non-runner, athlete, non-athlete – too many of us are missing the boat by not attending the Hall of Fame induction.

Next year, be there.