Open letter to hobby joggers slow runners non competitive athletes
I applaud your desire to get fit, work on your health and be a part of this great running community.
On behalf of those of us of a more competitive nature, I have a request.
When race time comes, please please seed yourself realistically/conservatively behind the start line. Slower runners joggers and non competitive people should be in the back.
I know a lot of elite runners, sub elite runners and very competitive runners who are significantly slowed down and blocked when slower runners and joggers seed themselves towards the front of races. It’s not right, especially when you slow us down or block the way or we have to expend extra energy to avoid you in the race and at water stops.
In my own case, I have devoted a significant amount of years in competitive running programs (hs, college and open) to reach my full potential.
Most time when I go to race I get slowed down by people who should have been farther back at the start. They slow me down and cause problems every time.
It’s very frustrating...esp given the amount of time and energy I have devoted to running. Years ago, and by that I mean the early 1970’s, races were not that big and this was not a problem.
Today’s it’s different.
Solutions are needed so the elite and sub elite can races very fast and not get slowed by the joggers and that the slower runners can enjoy the race too.
Thank you.