Ascender Speaks Out

I would like to comment on Matt Carpenter’s article appearing in the October 1994 issue entitled “Has Peaktus Interruptus Left You Unfulfilled?”

I have read with mild amusement Matt’s arrogant comments made before and after races throughout his career. This particular article exemplifies Matt’s unique talent for publicly demeaning others.

As a mid-pack kind of guy, I stand no chance of winning, much less breaking course records. I have run both the Ascent and Marathon several times, however, and find both races uniquely gratifying and challenging. In his article, Matt belittles anyone who chooses just the trip up, saying “they won’t have to come up with the courage” to complete the round trip

I have to wonder if Matt has ever considered that there are about 2,500 other runners in both races that may be less gifted and obsessive than he is. Athletes in both races wonder if their latest injury will allow them the joy of even completing the race. Some work full-time, have families and don’t devote their lives to training. Maybe a 5K race is enough challenge for them! How about those not fast enough even to meet the cut-off times along the course? Are they wimps? Maybe for some, the choice not to run down is an intelligent one. Why blow up a knee or chance severe injury and possibly miss months of running at all?

I guess that in order to set records and win, a certain degree of arrogance and compulsiveness is necessary. Seems like Matt feels wimpy for not completing the round trip. Does demeaning the 1,800 people who chose to run the Ascent make him feel better somehow?

I may not be the race champion, but I hope I’m a decent person I this life who can applaud the accomplishments of others, not knock them down.

I’m a 1994 Ascent finisher (and proud of it, thank you!)

Sean Gentry
Manitou Springs

P.S. I assume you’ll exclude this as Matt is a frequent contributor to your magazine and a mountain running stud. I felt someone should say something, at last!

We don’t exclude letters because we don’t like them — that would be censorship. All Matt meant was that doing “just” the ascent left him feeling a little incomplete. If he feels a little inadequate and insecure about it, that’s his problem, but it sounds as if he unearthed some similar feelings in you. By the way, Matt says “congratulations” on finishing the ascent. — Ed.

Your Comments...

          RED: Required Field
    Your Name: 
  Your E-mail: 
Retype E-mail: 

   Comment(s):

Liability Waiver:
I understand that typing and using a mouse have been found to cause carpal tunnel syndrome. By clicking on the submit button I agree now and forever to hold Matt Carpenter harmless and indemnify him for all claims, damages, judgments and costs and that I am in good physical condition and physically and mentally capable of using a mouse and a keyboard.

Back to the Peaktus Interruptus Chronicles