You are correct, this sport is loaded with Type A personalities. Most of us are successful and can afford to participate in IM events. For some of those same Type A people, IM is a big investment. Mr. Type A making $100,00/year with a wife and three kids is not necessarily free to spend money capriciously. The financial aspect of racing in an IM is still important to some Type A's. I think equating personality type and financial condition is not nearly as simple as you propose. There are many very driven people in this sport that are constrained by financial resources. Why make it harder for them?