I have been reading that headphones are being banned from running events like marathons. I have run two distance events. A half marathon, and a full marathon. And both I had my mp3 player. I did one duathlon, and headphones weren’t allowed. They say it is for safety, but also because it counts as technical assistance? Assistance? What kind of assistance does an mp3 player provide other than distracting the runner from long boring tedious miles.
I am not sure if this will be enforced. The only reason I train is to run the events. And if the events aren’t going to allow mp3 players, then the events are going to be a lot more boring. I may just give up running altogether. I really don’t enjoy the running itself. But if they aren’t even going to allow me to take my mp3, then screw it, and screw them.
I am already signed up for several events. I saw that the Rochester Marathon said on their site no headphones. I didn’t see anything like that on the Buffalo Marathon site. I will have to look into the ultramarathon I registered for to see if they mention it.
But running is so frigging boring. One foot in front of the other, repeat as necessary. I can’t imagine doing it for 4 or 5 hours straight with no music or anything.
I am going to be running a half marathon soon that has banned the use of music and will disqualify people who will not give up there music device or are seen on the course with a music device. The main argument for banning listening devices is safety, because of the fact that people using listening devices are not aware of what is going on around them. I believe this to be true for both people who are using listening devices and those who are not. We have all been out for a run or in a marathon and found people to be oblivious to anyone but themselves. My question to those that decided to enforce this rule is #1 How many documented injuries or dangerous situations have occured from the use of listening devices on closed race courses? #2 How much cheaper is insurance to include a ban on listening devices? #3 What type of assistance is given to those runners that are hearing impaired? We have been told that our official time will not be published in the official records if we use a listening device or we won’t be able to collect prize money. Well I am like a lot of runners….I run because I enjoy it, and I like to run with music because…well it’s relaxing. I don’t have my music blasting and if someone behing me wants to pass me on a road that can fit 5 cars wide I will be able to hear them just fine. Thanks for your time….If you want to see my official time for the upcoming half marathon you probably won’t because I will be running with music.
Comment by Jason — June 11, 2007 @ 11:00 pm