Besides, even if you aren't qualifying for anything you know how important it is to know the exact time you finished and your exact place in your division. Go on, try to deny it. This past Sunday, a runner took a fall at a race, was treated by an ambulance worker for some cuts, and when medically cleared, went on to finish the race. A discussion ensued at the finish line about the fine line between being courageous and foolish. There is no clear answers.
Runners extend the limits of physical tolerance.
When we go too far is hard to say. Sometimes I wonder if we are better off backing off one day so we can come back stronger the next time. We could debate this for hours. There is a system that can adjust times depending on age. This system is used for individual standings for the NH Grand Prix Series.