DMR, thanks for your input; for a change, someone has expressed this opinion in a rational manner. No, no one is going to warrant a "ticket to purgatory" for running Boston "illegally" (i.e, running under a different name than your own).I don't recall ever saying that!! Nor has anyone else, that I'm aware of. I said that I thought it was "inherently dishonest" to run a race under someone else's name and take credit for it. I still say that, but that's a far cry from saying you're going to hell for it! Perhaps, it is usually harmless, who knows? (Anyone here with an ethics PH.D?) Anyway, thanks for not calling me or others on this side of the debate, "names",for disagreeing. (Never thought I would actually HAVE to say that!) P.S, the medical concerns have been expressed in earlier posts. It's really another issue.
Steve, I'm reading all theses threads and I'm a bit suprised that someone would be so strongly against this. Sure it's not right, but for the most part, it's harmless. I don't think someone running 3:10 is going to bask in the glory too much. The only people who will NOTICE that person and time will be family and friends; those who probably know this person sold their number. There isn't much credit to be taken unless the person places high or something. Is that really enough of a fib to warrent a ticket to purgatory? I don't think so. I think it's a simple case of someone really wanting the chance to be a part of this spectacular event for their own satisfaction. I don't think anyone is out to dupe others. We're not talking about lying on a resume or something to get a job.
However, I didn't get through all the post, so I'm not sure this was mentioned. But for medical reasons, it seems dangerous to run with someone elses number. If you pass out, that's how they identify you and access medical records. In a marathon, lots of people have medical issues and this could be very dangerous. I'd say this is the only major concern.[/quote]