JimFiore wrote:
I read the article but I didn't think it was disgarceful (although some of the quotes might have been). I am disturbed by the following:
1. Walkers not lining up at the back an thus inhibiting those who wish to race (especially when walkers get indignant about it saying that they have just as much right to line up where they are as anyone else). That's just plain inconsiderate.
2. Walkers filling up "destination" marathons so quickly that it becomes difficult for runners to gain entry (who might want to pick between a few depending on how their training is going).
3. Team In Training and similar groups who effectively deplete the local race scene. I had one race director tell me this summer that his numbers were getting hit by these groups and he was looking for a better slot on the calendar. Local races and their charities are negatively impacted by this. A few thousand dollars can make a huge difference to the local food bank.
4. The feeling that walking 26 miles is in some way a great accomplishment for anyone in reasonable health and younger than late middle age. My feeling is that if you can't walk 26 miles after some modest training and you're in your 40's or younger, you're not healthy, period. This is like a student expecting an A because he attended every class. Doing the required minimum should in no way be confused with high performance.
5. The somewhat smug, slightly superior attitude that walkers "know better" than runners because walkers aren't exhausted when they cross the finish line. If you set the bar low enough, you can accomplish anything.
Ultimately, I understand the walkers want something different out of the event than the runners and I'm fine with that, but when they start impeding the runners that becomes a problem.
My major beef with the article is those walkers who refer to themselves as "marathoners". They want it both ways. They don't want the work involved but they still like the feeling (and pseudo prestige) that comes with the title.
QUESTION: Should people who walk 26.2 miles be called "marathoners"?
ANSWER: If someone rides the chairlift to the top of a ski resort and then walks down, do we say that he "did the downhill"?
If someone gets on the mound and proceeds to roll baseballs toward homeplate, do we call him a "pitcher"?
If two guys get into the ring and then slap each other silly for 15 rounds, do we call them "boxers"?