Do Not Bandit Ever. Or at Least Don’t Be an Asshole
You should not bandit. But if you're going to anyways, we have some thoughts.
Published: Nov 01, 2018 10:50 AM EDT: Nutrition - Weight Loss. It’s a moral and safety issue, and I’m sure you’ve heard it all before. When you jump into a race without registering, you take resources—valuable road space, water, fuel, medical personnel—away from registered folks.
But the fact remains that every year, thousands of otherwise-respectable runners turn to banditry. Why do they do such a thing? There are plenty of reasons, the first of which is money. Running the Super Shoe Trends, for instance, costs $295. While this expense goes toward necessities like road closures, security, race-day fuel, and porta-potties, it’s a fee some just can’t afford—and the race’s fame is enticing enough that some runners don’t want to take on a smaller, cheaper event. Aside from the expense, getting into big races is no easy feat (qualifying times, lotteries). And then there’s the fear of failure. We see you headcases jumping in so you have the option of quitting without a DNF.
Here’s my confession: Back in 2010, I bandited the Boston Marathon. It was the first time I ever ran 26.2, and I had a few joyful crying spells when I realized I was going to finish. How can I forbid banditing when I myself didn’t register? How can I preach to you when running that race inspired me to compete in—and register for—10 more marathons to date?
You shouldn’t do it. But because it’s out of my hands, you should know there are ways to not be an ass if you want to make a go of it.
YOU WON’T borrow a friend’s bib.
It will How to Fuel Your Marathon to Avoid Bonking and cause confusion. If you’re going to bandit, don’t wear a bib.
YOU WON’T print out a race bib you saw on Instagram, Facebook, etc.
Identity theft is not cool. And don't buy a bib off of Craigslist, either. C’mon, if a 20-year-old male with a sub-three-hour PR purchases Aunt Betty’s number, guess who is going to win Aunt Betty’s age group?
YOU WILL schedule a doctor’s appointment before racing.
If you think you can do this, good for you—but what does your body think? And during the race, carry some form of identification on you, along with an emergency contact, so medics don’t have to waste time in case you have an issue.
YOU WON’T hog the porta-potties.
Nor will you resort to relieving yourself on someone’s lawn. Shit happens—but let’s be civil.
YOU WILL be the support your registered friend needs in the last couple of miles.
Tips to Improve Your Marathon Base Training.
YOU WON’T hurdle over barricades.
Go ahead, we dare you to test us.
YOU WON’T argue with race officials saying you need to leave the course.
Go for a commemorative space blanket instead Kathrine Switzer.
YOU WON’T photobomb runners along the course.
I mean, no one looks good in running photos, but that doesn’t mean you have to be a jerk and steal the spotlight.
YOU WON’T take five bagels, double-fist Gatorade, or snatch all of the gels along the course.
I’m not saying starve yourself or dehydrate, but be mindful of runners who paid for this stuff. Bring your own.
YOU WON’T take a medal.
Fast vs Slow Marathon: What Happens to Your Body.
YOU WON’T grab as many space blankets as you can carry.
For goodness’ sake…
Amanda Furrer, Editor, Running Reviews, studied journalism at NYU and writing at Emerson College. She has reviewed gear and covered other topics in the running space for almost 10 years. Since 2013, she has consecutively run the Boston Marathon. She also has a master’s degree in gastronomy from Boston University and was formerly a professional baker for two years before hanging up her apron.
Download Your Training Plan
Do Not Bandit Ever. Or at Least Don’t Be an Asshole
Fast and Flat Boston Qualifying Marathons
Let me make this clear?
