Thanks, everyone.
I do agree that the time limit is important.
I also do get it that training/competing is a personal journey.
I have a harder time understanding the issues around respect/disrespect to other competitors at the easier distances, especially.
I have a hard time understanding what is wrong with walking a marathon if that is the goal you start out with, and you aren't trying to pretend to do or be something you're not.
"The best rides are the ones where you bite off much more than you can chew, and live through it." ~ Doug Bradbury