Why Pace Doesn't Beat Consistency
The marquee event at the Olympics is the 100m sprint. But, traditionally it is the marathon which headlines the games as the last event.
Just like any concert or performance it is the last act that creates the climax and therefore is considered the main event. In F1, there is the Sprint Race but the Grand Prix is worth a lot more in terms of points and prestige. Staying with racing, the 24 hour Le Mans to this day is the crowning achievement for any manufacturer as the ultimate endurance test of man and machine. In cycling, the Tour De France is held over 23 days and is the one and only event any non-cycling enthusiasts care about and once again is the most prestigious event in the sport.