Even the trolls here recognize Reagan and his influence. 'Nuff said.
Even though he lost, and lost big, nearly all Freepers will recognize the Goldwater name. He'd have become President in 1965 had not Oswald given LBJ a martyr to ride over him. Those old enough to remember first hand will agree that he continued to be the de facto leader of the conservative movement for years thereafter. His spirit and power wasn't defeated by LBJ, the MSM or elected Democrats. He was only defeated by age... and his second wife.
Now, I have nothing against Mrs. Schlafly. She has done and, at 86, continues to do great things. She's the person most responsible for stopping the ERA. She's a great lady, but I bet that even amongst Freepers there will be many who wouldn't recognize her name.
Given that not running now locks in #1 - time will pass her chances by - how can she not choose the path to #2 or #3. Even if she loses she'll retain more influence than not running will ever provide her.
Palin is a media magnet and in this day in age where all media is instant and the conservative media is coming of age, she can have a far greater and continuing influence than Schlafly should she decide not to run.
Look at the influence Rush has had and he hasn't run for anything.