Fun post coming at you! :)  First, the Breville Juicer raffle.

This raffle is for the Breville BJE510XL Ikon 900-Watt Variable-Speed Juice Extractor, courtesy of Amazon.com.  This amazing juicer retails for $179.  Think of all the delicious, healthy drinks you can make with this bad boy!

 

I am training for the Echelon Gran Fondo Century bike race, which raises money for the Livestrong Lance Armstrong Foundation, as well as local cancer research programs and hospitals.  I’m running a series of awesome raffles on the blog in hopes of raising more than $3,000 for these charities.

 

Here’s how the raffle works:

 

  • $5 gets you ONE raffle ticket.
  • $10 gets you TWO raffle tickets.
  • $15 gets you FOUR raffle tickets!  What a deal!
  • Submit your payment on the Echelon Gran Fondo website – HERE.
  • The contest will run until Tuesday, March 9 and I’ll contact the winner at lunchtime.
  • I will list everyone’s name on an Excel spreadsheet (one entry per $5, two entries per $10, and FOUR entries per $15), and the Husband will draw a winner using the Random Number Generator.
  • Amazon.com will then ship out the juicer to the winner.

 

Up next:  Lunch! 🙂

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I stuffed last night’s leftovers (the Baked Polenta Pie) into a whole wheat pita and added some hot sauce and sprouts.  It was delicious and FAST!

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Plus, an orange:

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And last (but not least)…

 

The Bib Transfers / Race Banditing Debate

 

I’ve been having an interesting internal debate with myself over the past few days.

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This weekend is the Disney Princess Half Marathon, and I’ve had not one but THREE offers to buy someone else’s bib number.    I’ve done 20 races, but I’ve never raced under someone else’s bib or bandited a race (which are two separate issues).

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Let’s tackle the bib transfer issue first. 

 

The reason illegal bib transfers take place (i.e. one runner selling their bib to another runner without notifying race directors) is that many races do not allow official bib transfers. 

 

  • If there were official bib transfers, many races would end up overbooked.  Race directors know that a certain percentage of people will not show up on race day and accommodate that percentage in bib sales.  So, if the 10% of people who won’t show to the Disney Princess Half Marathon transfer their bibs to someone else, the race directors would be screwed.
  • There are administrative costs and time associated with official bib transfers.  Race directors have more things to worry about on race weekend than transferring a bunch of bibs.

 

However, illegal bib transfers have issues, too:

 

  • If a young woman wears an old man’s chip and bib, she will skew the results for that age group.
  • If someone has a medical emergency and is wearing someone else’s bib, the race directors will have trouble getting that person the help they need.

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I’m tempted to say that illegal bib transfers are not a big deal IF:

 

  • You update your emergency contact info on the back of the bib.
  • You don’t place within the age group you’re running in.  If I ran the Disney Princess Half Marathon, there is NO WAY I could skew the age group results in any significant way.

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Race banditing is another issue.  Race banditing is when you run a race without an official number (meaning you did not pay for your entry).  It’s also called “race jumping,” and the practice is actually REALLY common.  Whether it’s because races are too expensive or sold out, banditing happens all the time.

 

The Boston Marathon and the Chicago Marathon have SEVERE banditing problems.  Organizers are really strict and will kick you off the course if they catch you banditing. 

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Banditing is frowned upon for all the same reasons as bib transferring is looked down on.  Also, it’s just not fair – other people paid for the race, and you should, too.  Plus, you’re probably taking amenities that cost money (like water and Goo from aid stations), and maybe even grabbing a finisher’s medal. 

 

In the end, I decided not to buy an illegal bib for the Disney Princess Half Marathon.  I really wanted to do it, but something felt “off” in my tummy about it – probably that I would have to report to 1,000s of strangers than I wore an illegal bib in a race!  :)  I’ll admit it…  If I thought no one would ever know, I might do it. 

 

What’s your thoughts on bib transfers and race banditing?  Have you ever done either one?  Is it not that big of a deal to bandit if you don’t take aid station supplies – after all, it’s a public street and the race is happening regardless? 

 

Remember, enter HERE for the Breville raffle.  Happy raffling!

{ 143 comments }

 

  • Gabriela @ Une Vie Saine March 5, 2010, 12:30 pm

    I love that you stuffed the polenta into a pita! Such a great idea for leftovers. I’m torn about the bib transfers. I’ve never done it, but I might be tempted if I really wanted to participate in a certain race!

  • Meghan@traveleatlove March 5, 2010, 12:30 pm

    I am totally ashamed of the fact, but I ran Boston as a bandit when I was a thoughtless 20 yr old. It didn’t occur to me all that went into it; I just felt like running. Dumb dumb dumb. Now I get so annoyed at bandits!
    Bib transfers, I don’t see as such a big deal, unless you don’t want your name showing up with someone else’s time.

    • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 12:33 pm

      I don’t think you should feel ashamed – I think situations like this are morally tricky. In the past, I’ve done things and I look back and think, “Ehh. Maybe I shouldn’t have done that?” But I didn’t think about it at the time. You live, you learn.

  • Heather (Heather's Dish) March 5, 2010, 12:30 pm

    i’ve never done either, but it seems like it’s probably just best to enter the race the normal way for many reasons! besides, just because you might not be in a race per se doesn’t mean you can’t run/bike/swim or whatever anyway, right? also, if it doesn’t feel right, you probably shouldn’t do it 🙂

  • Karen w March 5, 2010, 12:37 pm

    I did a bib transfer once – my Dad’s number. I felt so guilty the whole race. It was a huge race, no results were skewed but oh the guilt! I would lean toward it being ok if the person wouldn’t place in their age group and if the emergency info was on the bib. For me, it just felt wrong. I am not sure why… It was my Dad after all but I wouldn’t do it again – just me… Banditing? No way!

  • Lindsey @ Sound Eats March 5, 2010, 12:37 pm

    I’ve never had this problem, but I have to say that if I was someone that had to withdraw from a race for whatever reason, I would want someone else to be able to run it in my place. From that standpoint, I can understand why you would do a bib transfer (legal or illegal) because I mean heck – you already paid for an entry. If the race officials oversell a race, that’s their own problem. They would still have my money, which in my mind deserves a spot for a runner, whether it be me or a friend.

    Plus I feel like if anyone is going to be seriously racing to place, they more than likely would have bought their own entry ages ago.

    • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 12:39 pm

      I agree with you about making your money back.

      However, sometimes people DO place. There were a couple of people who placed in Chicago a few years ago with other people’s numbers on. But they got caught because there was cash prizes involved.

      • Lindsey @ Sound Eats March 5, 2010, 12:44 pm

        I wouldn’t necessarily want to make my money back, but basically give my entry to someone else so I don’t feel like I threw x amount of dollars down the toilet. But I’m super cheap, so I think I instinctively feel this way. 😉

        I’d like to ammend my original statement. 😉 If it’s a major race, you shouldn’t do a bib transfer or jump in (unless of course you contact the race director and he/she is cool with it). With any other race, if I were to give my spot to someone else, I’d prefer to see them in the same age division and know that they wouldn’t place.

        Haha not like I’ll ever have to personally deal with this though – the only race I’ve ever done is that 5k with you back in December 2008! Rock on dash of the elves! hahaha

  • Julie @ Peanut Butter Fingers March 5, 2010, 12:40 pm

    this is really interesting & something i’ve honestly never thought about. whenever i’ve seen people running w/o a race number i always think, “good for them for getting out & doing it,” but i’ve never taken the time to see the OTHER side. such great points and you’re right – it really isn’t fair.

  • Carolyn March 5, 2010, 12:40 pm

    I’m don’t think illegal transferring would be a big deal if you could find one that would allow you to run on your own age group. Banditing blows, though!

  • Amy March 5, 2010, 12:40 pm

    I personally don’t think its a big deal at all.

    Like I tweeted to you earlier, I ran a race as “Cathy” last year. I will say though, kudos to the real Cathy for asking me how old I was to make sure we were in the same age category.

    I had a shitty race, so I’ve probably screwed her amazing run times! 🙂

  • Ambre March 5, 2010, 12:42 pm

    I entered your contest 🙂

    • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 12:43 pm

      yay! 🙂 thank you

  • Jessica @ How Sweet March 5, 2010, 12:43 pm

    I’ve never done it, but my hubby has. I think its fine!

  • Samantha Angela @ Bikini Birthday March 5, 2010, 12:44 pm

    I’m against race banditing. It’s stealing, plain and simple. Actually, it’s probably worse than stealing, because a good portion of race entry fees can go towards charity. So it’s like stealing from charity.

    • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 12:50 pm

      good point!!!!!!!!!!!!!

      • Ellie March 5, 2010, 8:53 pm

        Just to play devil’s advocate (I haven’t really formulated an opinion about this yet), if the race is sold out, then race banditing wouldn’t deprive the charity (assuming race fees will go to charity) of any more money . . .

        In general, though, I guess I feel like it’s ethical to obey rules as a general practice, but this bears more thinking about. And there are other issues w/ race banditing besides the money, such as congestion due to un-planned-for runners, etc.

        • Lindsay Perrone (goodiesgalore) February 27, 2011, 1:12 pm

          I think it’s fine to bandit (if race is sold out and fundraising spots are filled) so long as you don’t use the resources, take a metal, etc.

  • Lauren @ Eater not a runner March 5, 2010, 12:45 pm

    I’ve never done either, but I’m not sure the bib transfers are a big deal (as long as the two things you mentioned above don’t happen). I don’t like the idea of entering a race you haven’t paid for, the money is for the aid stations and charity!

  • Michelle @ HeathyEatingRoadmap March 5, 2010, 12:46 pm

    I had no idea this secret world of bib transfers exists?? Fascinating stuff!

    • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 12:50 pm

      Craiglist any major race and you can find offer for bib transfers!

  • Daryl March 5, 2010, 12:48 pm

    Wow – I did not realize bandits were such an issue in some races. I feel that anyone doing that is taking advantage of someone who has paid and contributed to pay staff, close roads, etc. Transfers are tricky – a little over a year ago I was able to pay $15 to do an approved bib transfer for a race that sold out. I really appreciated this and I suspect the injured runner who I covered her original registration fee did as well. Have a good weekend!

  • Freya @ Brit Chick Runs March 5, 2010, 12:48 pm

    I don’t really know anything about bib transfer stuff (well, I do now I’ve read this post!), but I read the other week that a man took his friend’s bib in the London marathon last year, and got placed in the WOMEN’S category – he got banned FOR LIFE! I’d just say it isn’t worth the risk, even if it doesn’t seem like a big deal :s

  • Allie March 5, 2010, 12:49 pm

    i’ve done an illegal – and also a legal- bib transfer. the illegal one was for an awesome race i had trained really hard for and got injured. i gave my number to my friend who didn’t get in. i really didn’t feel bad about it. i would never run as a bandit though. i would feel so guilty and afraid of being caught!!

  • Amy March 5, 2010, 12:49 pm

    I will also chirp in to say that once my husband and I’s chips got mixed up before we put them up.

    It was only a 5k race, and there were elite atheletes so we totally didn’t skew the results. It was MY fastest and his slowest 5k ever according to the results (aka husbands 21 min 5k and my 29 min one!)

    • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 12:51 pm

      I’ve done this too by accident – I wore my brother-in-law’s chip for a race once!! But it was on accident. LOL

  • D March 5, 2010, 12:49 pm

    I’m a total rule follower (for the most part) so I would say it’s a huge NO. I understand the reasons behind it, but to be honest, I just feel like there are rules for a reason, and just because we think it’s “not fair” or silly, it’s still not justification for breaking them. Everyone would agree that cheating is wrong (like people who skip half the course of a marathon), but then think it’s debatable in the “grey areas”. I think that breaking any rule, big or small, is disrespectful to everyone involved. There are tons of races out there, it’s not the end of the world if you don’t participate in one. Interesting topic!

    • Amy March 5, 2010, 12:51 pm

      Whats the harm though if you’re not an elite athlete?

      This is different then skipping half of the course. You’re simply running with another bib.

      • D March 5, 2010, 1:02 pm

        I totally get the reasons why people do it, and I can understand how it’s tempting. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with it in practice, meaning I don’t think that running with someone elses bib will affect anything in reality. I just believe that society can’t successfully function without rules, and that includes even the silly ones. I don’t think transfers have an impact on a race, I just think it’s a matter of principle! To each her own I guess!

        • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 1:03 pm

          I agree with you D. I think some things should be done just because they are the right thing to do, and not banditing is one of them.

        • D March 5, 2010, 1:06 pm

          Oh I also disagree with the argument that it’s “too bad” for the race organisation and that if you’ve paid then you deserve to do whatever you want with the bib, etc.I kind of feel like, yes it SUCKS to be injured and drop out of a race (I had to drop out of a half marathon the week before), it’s “too bad” for ME.

  • Kalli@fitandfortysomething March 5, 2010, 12:50 pm

    I think bib transferring it okay as long as the person is near your age and same sex. It would not be nice to skew age group results!
    Love the polenta in your pita!

  • julia March 5, 2010, 12:50 pm

    I live in Boston and the Boston Marathon has a long history of bandits running the race. That doesn’t make it right, but a lot of people do it!

  • Freya @ Brit Chick Runs March 5, 2010, 12:54 pm

    Argh, maybe I’m just being really thick, but I still can’t seem to fill out the donation form, cos I’m in England – so I can’t put in my details cos it’s all for the US :s

  • ida March 5, 2010, 12:54 pm

    i don’t think it’s a big deal. you get to do the race, and the bib owner gets money back for an event they can’t do. unless you plan on winning I think the effect on the overall results is negligible.

  • Christie @ Honoring Health March 5, 2010, 12:55 pm

    Wow, I had no idea this was even an issue. Very enlightening.

  • Julie @SavvyEats March 5, 2010, 12:58 pm

    I have been planning for the Princess Half for a full year, and was super bummed when I found out I am too injured to run this weekend. So when I saw someone tweet that they wished they could run this weekend, I offered to sell them my bib. If I can’t run, I want someone else to be able to! Plus, I will admit that part of the reasoning was that it is an expensive race, and a lot of money to be out for a race you don’t get to run!

    That being said, I will make sure she changes the emergency contact info, and I know she is in the same age group as me!

  • Paula March 5, 2010, 12:58 pm

    I’m not a racer, I’m not even a runner. But, it seems to me that 1) races shouldn’t over sell and count on people not showing, 2) banditing is really shitty and nobody should ever do that and 3) bib transfers should be allowed within the same sex/age group.

    Now, keep in mind I’m not a racer, so I may not be looking at it from the “right” point of view.

  • HTP Dad March 5, 2010, 12:58 pm

    I think being a bandit is fine if you don’t use ANY race resources – except maybe Disney, which is private property.

    In cycling, selling a spot you can’t use is common. The few events that you can’t do this use picture ID and are extremely difficult, or so small everyone knows each other..

    • Liz March 5, 2010, 2:46 pm

      The problem is that there are likely a lot of overhead costs that need to be paid for (permits to close roads, security, signage, etc), so it is really not possible to say that you are not making use of any resources that you didn’t pay for.

  • Sean March 5, 2010, 1:01 pm

    I think that race directors should allow bib transfer for a very modest fee. I had a very hard time signing up for a half ironman because of the no refunds and no transfers fee. I still signed up, but damn it hurts that my $250 is in the garbage if I get injured or have something else come up before the event. I can understand no refunds since aid stations, permits, off duty police officers, etc all have to be paid for, but why not bib transfers? They even have a waiting list for people who couldn’t get in so it’s not like they can’t just give it to the next person in line. Ugh.

  • Amanda @ LessonsInModeration March 5, 2010, 1:02 pm

    I have run bandit in a race once and I felt weird about it. I wouldn’t do it again, but to be honest….if you are on a public street and you aren’t grabbing water or supplies, what’s the big deal? In a short 5K you probably wouldn’t need water or anything so if I saw someone without a bib it wouldn’t bother me. Once I registered for a race and was running late so it was either pee one last time or wait in line for my bib and chip and I decided to pee, so it looked like I was a bandit but I was legit 🙂

  • Theresa @ ActiveEggplant March 5, 2010, 1:03 pm

    NO WAY on the banditing issue.
    As for transfers, I agree with previous commenters – the entry/bib was paid for so SOMEONE might as well get to use it! Take the Peachtree Road Race for example – every year hundreds of people swap bibs to get into a different start “wave” in order to run with friends/family (I’ve done this before and didn’t feel guilty AT ALL). Others give away – or sell – their numbers if they’re unable to run so someone else can experience the race.
    If it’s a big race where you’re basically nameless, I say go for the transfer, just update your emergency info. BUT, if it’s small race where you might skew the placements maybe think twice.

  • Jessica @ The Process of Healing March 5, 2010, 1:08 pm

    I think banditing is WRONG. But the bib transfer? Eh. I can see both sides but I don’t think that there is anything inherently wrong with it.

  • Jess March 5, 2010, 1:09 pm

    I definitely think banditing is wrong. The entry fee goes to pay for things like the cost to the city for closing the roads to make it safe for runners. A portion often pays for the police too (if they aren’t all volunteers).

    Illegal bib transfer is a different story. I can see both sides of the argument for that one. I was actually going to give my bib away for a race because I was injured and someone else wanted to run it. In the end it fell through and I recovered and did the race myself. But that’s a tougher thing to decide.

  • Ashley March 5, 2010, 1:09 pm

    Here in Raleigh we have the Krispy Kreme Challenge, this crazy race where you run 4 miles and stop in the middle to eat a dozen donuts…the race has exploded over the past couple of years and they limit the entry to 6000 people or something. I was reading the campus newspaper after this year’s race and one of the top three men’s and one of the top three women’s finishers were disqualified for wearing someone else’s bib. I’m sure they weren’t the only ones who transferred bibs, but they were the ones who got called out for it because they placed.

    Bib transferring is not something I would ever do because I’m a stickler for the rules, and I can’t say I really approve of other people doing it, but I also wouldn’t ever make a fuss about it unless it kept me from getting a medal (and I’m so slow that will likely never happen 😀 ).

  • megan March 5, 2010, 1:12 pm

    i think that if it’s against the rules you just shouldn’t do it. so i agree with your decision 🙂 I’m definitely a rule follower. Even if it doesn’t make sense, or wouldn’t hurt anybody, I would respect the rules of the race and not do it. Unless I was able to get permission from the coordinator.

  • Kelly March 5, 2010, 1:15 pm

    Yeah, it is definitely a tricky situation. I know a lot of people who run Boston as bandits, and I get why it’s bad but I also think a lot of people are just never going to qualify for Boston and they want to run it! I know they could fundraise but they expect you to make a LOT of money and that’s easier for some people than others. I understand both sides I guess…
    As for transfering I think it should be allowed. I know it would require work but especially with sports injuries that occur, you shouldn’t have to lose your money completely! I would support you buying someone’s bib number 🙂

    • Morgan March 5, 2010, 1:24 pm

      I wouldn’t support buying someone else’s bib number, but race directors should allow for at the very least a limited number of transfers. Maybe there could be a wait list and 8 weeks out, if you know that you are not running the race, you might could get a small refund and sell your bib back to the race. It gives someone else an opportunity to run and the race makes a little more cash out of it too.

  • Carrie H March 5, 2010, 1:17 pm

    I have a related question … what about someone not registered jumping into the race and running a few miles with a registered runner? I’m running a marathon in May and will be alone. My husband said he’d like to run a few of the later miles (like, 16-19 or something) with me to help me along, and I know I’ll want his company. I’ve seen this happen on some of the blogs (most recently on Meghann’s last weekend) but is it kosher? Does it depend on the race? I REALLY wouldn’t want to get disqualified. I’m thinking of e-mailing the race people, but thought I’d ask around first. Thanks!

    • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 1:18 pm

      If you email the race director and ask them, they will 100% say it is not allowed because 1) spectators are not allowed on the race course and 2) it’s considering a form of banditing.

      However, I think you can probably get away with it, and lots of runners’ families do it although it’s not technically allowed.

      • Carrie H March 5, 2010, 1:20 pm

        So having him bring my golden retriever along is out then? 😉

    • meghann March 5, 2010, 1:23 pm

      Hi Carrie,

      It depends on the race. I know when I ran the Disney marathon they were very strict with who was on the course, but at Gasparilla they were very open. A lot of runners were crossing the finish line with their kids and along the course I saw a lot of people jump in for a few miles or ride their bike along a fellow runner. I would suggest asking other runners who have done the marathon before what the vibe is like along the course and how strict they are.

    • Melissa S. March 5, 2010, 2:57 pm

      I am the guilty one whom you’ve pointed out from Meghann’s race last weekend. I figure, as long as i’m not wearing a number, i’m not screwing up/scewing the results.

      I also make sure not to take water/food during the race (granted, I did take bananas afterwards, but I did run one race during the weekend and they were giving them away) and provide my own and NEVER EVER TAKE medals when i run these races (It’s basically what you pay for among other things and I don’t think that’s fair, as if I take one, it means someone who paid won’t get theirs), and i do it for the support of my friends, not for the race itself.

      It’s all in good fun to me. 🙂

      • Carrie H March 5, 2010, 3:18 pm

        Thanks guys! I appreciate your input. I really don’t think there’s anything wrong with stepping in to help motivate a runner along the course for a few miles — ultramarathoners have entire crews that do that! I just wanted some opinions, because after five months of training, I DO NOT want to get DQ’ed at mile 20 or something.

        • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 4:15 pm

          I don’t think they would DQ you for a friend running next to you anyway – if they did, they would be huge assholes.

      • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 4:14 pm

        I think you were OK Melissa 🙂 Part of running is to have fun and have family, friends, and strangers be supportive. I was thinking about this on my ride and I think friends jumping into the course for a little bit, while technically not kosher, is OK in my book.

        • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 4:18 pm

          i.e. in race directors’ eyes, it’s not kosher.

  • Morgan March 5, 2010, 1:20 pm

    Bib transferring is like someone taking the SAT for you. Complete crap. Do the work yourself. I have always wondered if the same types of people who scalp tickets register for races like Chicago and New York only to sell bibs.

    Do you think race bandits run to get the free food or medals? Both?

    • Meghan@traveleatlove March 5, 2010, 1:29 pm

      As someone who ran bandit, I certainly didn’t run for the food or medals. If you don’t have a bib (at least in a race like Boston) you don’t get those things. I think a lot of people who live near the course in Boston grow up with it, want to run and may not qualify or feel they are able to raise $ for a charity. Or as I mentioned above, (like me) they are young and stupid and don’t even consider what goes into it. I’ll be running my 2nd charity Boston Marathon this spring, and struggling to raise money for my charity so it will definitely make me angry to see bandits!

      • Morgan March 5, 2010, 1:31 pm

        If I ever grow the cajones to run bandit, it would be Boston. Which I could never do. Oh, the Guilt!

    • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 4:19 pm

      I think they just bandit to have fun 🙂 They definitely don’t want glory – you don’t get an official time if you bandit!

  • Shallin March 5, 2010, 1:22 pm

    Hey Caitlin,

    This is obviously not a banditing question, but do you use a juicer when you make Green Monsters or do you use a blender? Thank you!

    • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 1:31 pm

      in a blender!

      • Lucy March 5, 2010, 3:17 pm

        I had my first green monster today – and I liked it!!! You were right, they really are tasty! I started with the simple recipe of spinach, almond milk and naner, but I think there are tons of combinations that would work. Thanks for inspiring me to try something new:)

        • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 4:20 pm

          YAY i’m glad!

  • lauren (athlEAT) March 5, 2010, 1:22 pm

    I have run in the place of an injured friend or family member, which I don’t think is a big deal. But, I have never bought a random BIB online. I think I would actually feel weird about doing that.

    When I ran my first marathon, I had friends meet me at multiple points to jump in and run a mile or two with me. I loved that and don’t see that as a problem since they didn’t take anything that was meant for the paying race participants. I think running bandit applies to people running the entire race and taking water/aid meant for paying participants. I have never run an entire race bandit, but I have jumped in and run with a friend or family member for a portion of the race to keep them company. I wouldn’t take anything that was meant for the full-paying folks. That is where I think it becomes wrong.

  • Evan Thomas March 5, 2010, 1:24 pm

    Banditing sounds awful and wrong. Transfering sounds less so; I think it’s actually more a flaw in the race’s system that something like that is so outlawed and unfixable rather than the runner’s problem

  • Stacey March 5, 2010, 1:24 pm

    Hmmm. that explains why in some races I have seen runners that AREN’T wearing bibs! those thieves! if I have to pay for a race, then so should they

  • Matt March 5, 2010, 1:26 pm

    I think race banditing is ridiculous. Pay the fee just like everyone else.

    I also this that racing under someone elses name is wrong as well. There just seems to be something off about it.

  • Ami March 5, 2010, 1:28 pm

    I once ran a half marathon in place of someone who twisted their ankle and couldnt do it. It wasnt a big deal because we’re the same sex, age etc. I wasn’t in any danger of placing or winning anything, but I did have the fastest time ever! I scored a PR and I dont even have the official race time sheet! Boo…that was the only problem.

    I dont feel bad about it at all because I didnt hurt anyone but myself!

  • Hallie March 5, 2010, 1:34 pm

    I don’t think I could ever bandit a race for real but I have “accidentally” because I run in an area that commonly hosts 5 and 10k walks/runs. If anything, I’ve felt bummed because I knew no one there was cheering for me and that water wasn’t mine to take haha…and sometimes I get emotionally caught up in whatever the cause is (like the time I was crying while running past a walk for suicide awareness). I’ve also “run” into events with my dog and she’s too crazy for crowds…so that cut our run real short 🙂

  • Kelly March 5, 2010, 1:35 pm

    I was wondering about this too, i’m registered for a race and may and at this point it’s looking like I won’t be able to run it, and wanted to let someone have my spot. Thinking twice about it now.

  • Lee March 5, 2010, 1:44 pm

    I’ve never bandited a race, but I have run under another person’s name.

  • Britt @ Runnerbelle March 5, 2010, 1:46 pm

    I’ve only accidentally did a transfer…. my mom and I got our numbers mixed up (hate when they don’t put your name on your bib at registration). But we got the results fixed.

    I wouldn’t do either. Banditing is definitely a big NO NO. I can get why people might do a transfer, but I would hate never having that record with my name attached to it. If you set a PR, its this other persons name on your PR and not your own. Plus of course emergency info, etc.

  • Sarah @ Long Legs Healthy Life March 5, 2010, 1:50 pm

    Hi Caitlin!
    A question about the contest: are your Canadian readers eligible?

    • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 1:52 pm

      Nope, sorry 🙁

  • Kristen March 5, 2010, 1:52 pm

    I have a related question
    What about running along a closed race course, on race day, with your own supplies and not crossing the finish line?
    Would it be wrong to take advantage of the closed roads and cheering section if all you did was run?

    I know that just the road closures cost money so you are “stealing” some of the race, but I’m just curious as to whether people consider that to be true banditing. As some others have mentioned- I’ve accidentally ended up on a race course before even though I wasn’t part of the race. And I can see the appeal of doing a training run on a closed course…

    • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 1:54 pm

      I’ve accidentally ended up on a race course but I don’t course that to be banditing because I didn’t head out with the intention of running the race. I just really “ran into” the race and had to run along with it for a little bit. I think it’s a matter of PLANNING to run the race. If you plan ahead, you’re banditing.

      • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 1:59 pm

        **i didn’t consider that to be banditing because…

        sry for that typo

  • Catherine March 5, 2010, 2:02 pm

    I don’t really have a problem with banditing if the person doesn’t get in anyone’s way, although I do see the problem if they don’t have rules against it to prevent to many people from clogging a race. Half the time I run in Central Park on the weekends there’s some sort of race happening and I end up running alongside the race (although I stay outside the cones). I entered your contest – win, win in my opinion – for a great cause and a change to get my own juicer!!!

  • Joy March 5, 2010, 2:02 pm

    Hi,

    I just wanted to say I’m enjoying your food choices even more since you’ve added the lovely table coverings – there bright, fun and give off energy.

    • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 2:03 pm

      Thanks Mommy!

  • Laura March 5, 2010, 2:07 pm

    Hmm, I’d never heard of banditing before you wrote about it either… the races I have run have all been for charity, so I’ve kind of committed myself to raising lots of sponsorship beforehand- if I did consider doing what you were offered, I’d have to make sure it was fair, (but I would never be placed in a group well- except the over 80’s or under 10’s!- and try to raise some money and donate it to the races elected charity, so that all would be fair and square and meaningful in my book. I love, love the idea of being able to have friends or relatives run for a short part of the race with you, although running in a charity’s team rocks! Btw, yes ANOTHER marathony link (sorry!), but it should be entertaining, especially if you like the English sense of humour:
    http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00r8zr8/Eddie_Izzard_Marathon_Man_Episode_1/

  • Susan - Nurse on the Run March 5, 2010, 2:07 pm

    I would never run a race as a bandit, but I don’t think bib transfers are bad as long as you don’t mess up awards or anything. For some races you have to register six or more months in advance…what if you get injured? That would be $130 out the window! You have to plan so far ahead for some of these races that it seems kind of silly to not allow bib transfers, although you don’t want people signing up thinking that they CAN transfer because maybe they will sell out more quickly…ah, what a fine line.

  • Diana March 5, 2010, 2:12 pm

    I have a question- I go to Boston College and we are right on the course for the Boston Marathon and the campus always goes crazy cheering for everyone. My best friend is training for the marathon and I’m so excited to see her run by campus. I have been planning on jumping in with her and running the last 5 miles of the marathon with her. I want to do this mostly because 5 miles is my max distance right now and I want to cheer her on and motivate her finish (obviously, i think it will be really fun to cross the finish line even though I only ran 5/26 of it…) But do you think this is “illegal”? A lot of BC students do it to cheer on friends. Should I be hesitant to do it?

    • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 2:15 pm

      See comment #35

    • jane March 5, 2010, 3:05 pm

      Definitely do it! It will be great support for your friend and nobody will think twice about it.

    • Sabrina March 6, 2010, 4:47 pm

      I personally think it is fine to run a few miles of a race with someone, but I hate when people cross the finish line who did not do the whole race. I say run a few miles and jump out several feet before the finish, so that only the actual finisher crossing that special line.

      I wonder if I am the only one who gets upset over this?

      • caitlin March 6, 2010, 5:08 pm

        do you mean people who fake cross the finish line for the glory or just with friends, period?

        • Sabrina March 6, 2010, 6:34 pm

          I was just speaking about those friends who help someone through the last few miles… and then cross the finish line too. I didn’t even know there were people who faked cross on their own just for the glory.

          At the Philadelphia Marathon they specifically mention it is ok to run a few miles with someone, but please pull out of the path a minute or two before the finish line.

  • Paige (Running Around Normal) March 5, 2010, 2:16 pm

    Reason #4123 Why I love you and your blog – you totally admitted you would do it if none of us knew/no one would find out. 😀
    This is actually the first time I’ve thought about buying someone else’s bib #, so my contribution to the discussion is fairly…uneducated, but I don’t see the huge deal either if you update you emergency contact info, and if you’re sure to not place. In fact, I think races should allow the participants to bib transfer..and then update your info through them so you *can* try to place!

  • Angie March 5, 2010, 2:18 pm

    This is so fascinating! I had no idea! I just signed up for my first marathon, and it was pretty expensive. I’ve often wondered what would happen if I couldn’t run the race because of injury or anything, and if I could sell it. Now I see it’s obviously a no-no! If I had a friend or family member who wanted it, though, I probably wouldn’t hesitate. But I don’t think I would sell it online.

    I have no idea how that makes a difference to me logically, since essentially it’s the same thing and just semantics, but apparently it does!

    • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 2:20 pm

      many races do allow official transfers, you just have to check!

      • Sabrina March 6, 2010, 4:48 pm

        The DC Cherry Blossom Run actually has an entire forum dedicated to selling your bib… our friends were able to sell theirs in 30 minutes, and it was completely legal.

  • Jenn @ Livewellfit March 5, 2010, 2:21 pm

    This is a tough one…there are a lot of issues that could be brought up. 🙂

    While I understand the reasons for not using another person’s bib number, I think if you appropriately change the information in case of an emergency AND cover all of the potential “what ifs” I don’t necessarily see a problem. This is the case with races such as small triathlons or marathons. For races such as Ironman competitions I think this could be a problem. You are significantly more likely to run into medical or emergency problems with more enduring races such as those.

    Race bandits…I get the desire to run but you know what, others paid for their number and/or raised a significant amount of charity money to race…SO LEAVE the well deserved course to them! I know it stinks but just wait for another race you can join. 🙂

  • Caitlin @ Right Foot Forward March 5, 2010, 2:31 pm

    I have never done either, but I am really against banditing a race. Even if bandits don’t take gels, water, use the portapotty, etc, the race fee went toward other things that they do use: closing down the roads, policemen, printing signs, and so on.

    I’m not really decided about my feelings on bib transfers. I guess if you change the emergency contact information and stay within the same age/gender group, it’s okay. Not sure I would do it, though

  • Brittany March 5, 2010, 2:45 pm

    I am actually running a half-marathon in someone’s place on March 21st. She was injured while training, and so she couldn’t race! I really wanted to do the half, but it was sold out, so she sold me her bib. I personally don’t see a problem with it, since she paid to be a participant (which means that the money goes to charity) and then I reimbursed her when I bought her race bib. Our age difference isn’t that significant, and I’m surely not going to skew the results either!

  • Sarah @ THE FOODIE DIARIES March 5, 2010, 2:50 pm

    what brand of whole wheat pitas do you use? mine are masssssive. yours look cute!

    • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 4:13 pm

      Toufayan brand

  • Nicole @ Geek Turned Athlete March 5, 2010, 2:53 pm

    I’ve never ran as a bandit in the race, and it actually pisses me off when I see people doing it! Like you said, I pay the nutrients on the course, plus all of the other assistance, and these people don’t. I don’t find it amusing! On the other hand, I am into bib transfers just as long as you don’t think you will skew the results!

  • Gabriela March 5, 2010, 2:57 pm

    I totally agree with your decision – I don´t think I´d have the stomach to run a race “illegally”. I´d feel awkward 😛
    But amazing lunch!
    Mouth-watering 😀
    Have a great Friday, Caitlin!
    Brazilian XOXO´s
    Gabriela

  • Sarah @ See Sarah Eat March 5, 2010, 3:03 pm

    I had never even heard of race banditing until recently when I saw a friend’s husband at a race, told her I saw him, and then she said “Yeah, he totally pirate ran that race” then she had to explain to me what it meant.

    Here locally, we only have a few races where banditing would be an issue, like our Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon & mini-Marathon (which gets sold out every year), and our Triple Crown Races, which start tomorrow! These all tend to be very crowded.

    But the race where I saw my friend’s husband was a small race and there was only water at the end of it and no other amenities. They didn’t get credit for running or “place” anywhere. So I guess really, it’s up to that person’s conscience and we’ll never know.

  • Jes March 5, 2010, 3:04 pm

    Oh I really wanted to run the Disney Princess Half Marathon, but then my running fell behind last year. I am definitely going to run it next year! Good luck!

    As far as the big transfers… I don’t think I would do it, just because I’d feel like I was doing something “illegal”, but that is just me. I know that I do not like the idea of people that in order to qualify for Boston or some other large race.

  • Amber K @ sparkpeople March 5, 2010, 3:09 pm

    I have never been in a race and had no idea there were issues like these! I’d say whatever doesn’t feel right to me, is something I wouldn’t do.

  • Lauren March 5, 2010, 3:12 pm

    I’m definitely opposed to banditing, as it has the potential to really skew race results, and is generally tasteless, in my opinion (I know races are expensive, but a good portion of the money goes toward GOOD causes, like charties, and to closing crucial roadways and bridges to traffic!)

    For me, bib transferring poses less of a moral dilemma. I DO think it’s problematic if you place in an age group you don’t technically ‘belong to.’ However, in my mind, you’re not “running without paying” when you take part in a bib transfer.

  • skinnyrunner March 5, 2010, 3:52 pm

    I would never bandit and run a race I didn’t pay for, but I have bought a bib to a sold out race. I paid full price so I wasn’t getting any steal of a deal.
    I’d buy another one or sell mine if I had to. There’s no refunds on bibs so what happens if you get injured, have something come up and can’t run it? Why let the money go to waste? just my 1.5 cents.

  • Kelly @ Healthy Living With Kelly March 5, 2010, 4:03 pm

    I think the main reason is safety…what is something happens to you and they look you up in the system based on your bib number and they think you are someone else. That could be really bad.

  • Sara @ ActiveGal March 5, 2010, 4:06 pm

    I personally would not buy someones bib because I want the credit! haha Maybe for a 5k, but if I ran a half marathon or marathon I want my name on that time sheet in all its glory because of the time and effort that is put into training for a race. Maybe that makes me self centered? haha jk.

    • Caitlin March 5, 2010, 4:16 pm

      hahah i agree with this one!

  • Raya March 5, 2010, 4:22 pm

    Wow. I had NOOOO idea this was such a huge issue. I feel like there’s going to be a “race bib mafia” emerging soon. Haha. Great discussion though!!! I loved reading all the opinions. Also, I entered the raffle!!

  • Lisa (bakebikeblog) March 5, 2010, 4:33 pm

    Great post Caitlin!
    oooh and I love that placemat!! So colourful 🙂

  • Heather March 5, 2010, 4:46 pm

    banditing is DEFINATELY wrong. bib transfer…eh..I mean, if you are paying the perosn for the bib, not going to plac in your age group, its still one person running the race, and it was paid for…so IDK on that one. I am up in the air.

  • Tammy March 5, 2010, 4:50 pm

    I personally think both are dishonest…Although sometimes people unintentionally end up on a race course, they shouldn’t take part in the amenities…Regardless, people do it anyway.

  • kace@no guts no glory March 5, 2010, 5:08 pm

    I’m so jealous that you’re doing the Disney Princess Half! That’s on my “to-do” race list for next year. Please post a lot of pictures 🙂 And good luck!

  • susan (stepping off the coaster) March 5, 2010, 5:12 pm

    i entered to win your juicer, but more importantly, i was so excited to see that i could make my pledge “in memory of”… as i just lost my father in law to cancer in february.

    thank you for giving me the chance to support your race AND take a moment to honor his memory today.

  • Kendel March 5, 2010, 5:13 pm

    Personal opinion aside, I have a funny yet dishonest story to share. One of my colleagues always runs the Cologne half-marathon with her husband and 3 brother in-laws. Her husband was responsible for registering the 3 family members coming to Cologne from Ireland. Well, he waited so long to register that the race was full but the in-laws had already trained and bought plane tickets. They were bandits- all 3 with the exact same bib. Luckily everyone finished safely… but you never know. The rest of the weekend, I referred to the guys as Richard the first, second, or third.

    • Raena October 12, 2011, 3:56 pm

      Very funny, Kendel! I love the names Richard I,II, III.

  • Allison K March 5, 2010, 5:14 pm

    ooh a juicer! off to donate!

  • Becky March 5, 2010, 5:31 pm

    I ran a half marathon as a bandit in Madison WI where I live last summer – but not really on purpose! I ran to the start because I had friends running it (who I never saw in the race) and got there right as the gun went off, so I figured I’d tag along for a few miles to see where the course went and then head home…but I felt great and just kept going, and then I’d gone far enough that turning around would have been too long of a run, so I ran to the end, although I skipped a bit of the course (an out and back part near the end) because it would have put my distance way over 13.1 for the day. I also did not take any race supplies (food/water/gatorade) or run through the finisher’s chute. I still felt kind of bad for running for free, but it was a spur-of-the-moment decision, and gave me confidence in my ability to run that distance again!

  • Tracey @ TropicalHappiness March 5, 2010, 5:44 pm

    I think that ALL races should allow for bib transfers. I don’t think that the race organizers should have to handle the money side of things– if you sell it or give it away, that’s your deal to handle. But I do think they should allow for a name transfer. I think this would eliminate so many problems. I know it’s a bit of an added expensive, but there should be a way to submit most of the information online. Or for smaller races, you should be allowed to stand in line and do it on race day.
    I just think it’s a shame that someone might mess up the results by running in an age group that isn’t theirs, etc.
    As for bandits… I don’t think it’s a big deal to run along side a friend for a portion of the race. I think it’s fine- you’re not taking a medal or causing any extra work for the organizers. You’re just there to support your friend in his or her goals. Even an occasional banana or water bottle is ok– after all, they usually give those out after the race in the expo areas too, where ANYONE can go. But running an entire race that you didn’t pay for is a no-no in my book. Most of the races have charity donations, and I just think that is bad karma!
    I recently ran a 5k, but what I didn’t know is that there was also a 5M that day. Somehow, I signed up for the 5M online, not the 5k. I had NO IDEA. After I ran the race, I realized that I was third in my age group. I knew that was IMPOSSIBLE, so I looked into it further & realized that my time for my 5K (in the 30s) was listed as if I had run 5 miles in that time. Thankfully, there were race officials with computers on-site, so they changed it for me. And they said that there must have been a glitch online because there were a TON of people changing from the 5M to the 5k. I had to laugh that people still ran the 5 miles faster than I ran the 5k!!!!

  • Rachel (Running Rachel) March 5, 2010, 6:13 pm

    I’d not heard of people buying bibs before reading this article. I know of several friends who have run races in place of other friends who were injured etc. I wouldn’t like to buy or sell a bib to a stranger (online or similar) because you wouldn’t know who was running under your name! But I don’t see a problem donating a bib to a friend if you couldn’t run, because you’d know what their ability was (i.e. if they are an elite athlete!) and they’d probably be in your age category too.

  • Deva (Voracious Vorilee) March 5, 2010, 6:14 pm

    Because I haven’t raced before, I don’t think I could bandit or buy someone’s bib – I’d want to know my time. And ANYTHING that gives me that odd feeling in my tummy, like this, would immediately make me say “no, I wouldn’t”

  • John March 5, 2010, 7:14 pm

    I’m like you I’d be tempted but probably wouldn’t do it. Never heard of banditing before…learn something new everyday!

  • Joanne March 5, 2010, 8:24 pm

    The thought wouldn’t even occur to me. I plan too far in advance. If I was shut out of a race…that’s just poor planning on my part and I’d move on and check out the next race.
    As for thoughts or opinions on people who do it, illegal or not, the world goes round and there will always be individuals trying to “pull one over”. If it skews the timing, not a biggy. I have my own goals and its my pace and not to win.

  • Carol March 5, 2010, 9:23 pm

    Sadly, there was a horrible example as to bib swapping is bad at last year’s Melissa’s 22km in Banff, Canada. A younger man (late 30’s) collapsed and died at the finish line. He was not carrying any ID, and his bib indicated that he was actually a young woman! Turns out in the end that it was his wife’s bib (OMG, can you imagine anything worse) but it scared every runner that into carrying ID. Now this race sells out in about 2 hours every.single.year (took me over 2 hours just to get myself and a friend registered this year), so there is an opportunity to sell your bib, which is controlled by the race sponser. However, I guess this couple decided that morning that he was running and not she, and really sad consequences of that decision.
    If the race allows the swaps (has an opportunity to update the data) then go for it…we all know life can get in the way. However, if not, then it’s not worth the risk.
    And the polenta bake looked good…can’t wait to try it out.

  • Gracie (complicated day) March 5, 2010, 11:15 pm

    Hm, thanks for opening up a brand new dilemma for me. I am now sorely tempted to craigslist me some race numbers!
    But only after I decide if I should drive all the way back to Target to point out that they forgot to ring an item up. Target is an hour away! Argh!

  • Melissa March 7, 2010, 9:37 am

    I don’t think that transferring a bib is a big deal. If that person isn’t going to run anymore, why not give someone else the opportunity to run. For example, my friend had been training for a half marathon and she didn’t have the money to pay for the fees. She was waiting until she had the money and the race sold out. Someone else we knew had a bib and decided not to run so she let my friend have her bib. I don’t know.. I guess my thought is “another man’s trash can always be someone else’s treasure.”

  • Lizzy March 7, 2010, 9:43 am

    I don’t see bandit running as that big of a deal. I would never do it for a 5K or a small race but I’ve helped friends complete their first 10Ks by running with them and then jumping off course before the finish line. My brother ran my first half-marathon with me without a number and is planning on helping me in my first marathon as well. I just was at a race down on the Cape in Massachusetts and saw several runners without numbers running the marathon to encourage friends to reach a goal. I really don’t have a problem with that. I mean if you were going to finish in the top 10 without a number thats a different story…

  • Nicci March 8, 2010, 10:33 am

    I learned something new today. I didn’t know there was a such thing of bib transferring or banditing. I’ve always wondered if a lot of people do that in the big races, just jump in.

  • Tiffany March 9, 2010, 11:24 am

    I am not keen on banditing, but I wouldn’t mind if the rules allowed for bib transferring.

    Thanks for another great raffle! I just sent my donation in =)

  • Carina November 17, 2010, 5:15 pm

    Banditing Boston particularly has a very storied history — women used to not be allowed to run it, so the only way they could was as bandits! But now, strikes me as wrong.

    Also, I think forums should be set up for legal bib transfer at no profit to the seller of the bib, and possibly a small convenience fee for the race organizers. Craigslist bib transfer is bad — could encourage ticket brokers, etc. to buy all available bibs for a race and then sell at a profit.

    Bib transfer via donation to another runner is tricky in my mind.

  • Neeraj Rohilla June 23, 2011, 4:56 pm

    I have run few races as bandit when I am pacing a friend. I don’t take any fluids from race and never finish the race and only run/pace about 70% of the race.

    I have run races with illegal bib transfers but I have a golden rule. DON’T wear the CHIP. I actually really hate chiptimes because it drives the race entries high in smaller races. Almost always I have started and stopped my watch within 1 second of my chiptime so I don’t need a chip to time myself. If you are doing illegal bib transfer, don’t wear a chip and it’s fine.

  • Claire July 28, 2011, 1:05 am

    I think for big races the organisers should provide a viable option for people who get injured that is within the rules. For example in Australia, the Gold Coast Marathon allows you to legally transfer your entry to someone else, for any event and any age category, and they reissue a correct bib to the new person. The Melbourne Marathon offers a refund (minus a processing fee) for withdrawals. These are two really big marathons and I think by doing these things they stop the problem of illegal bib transfers. Obviously people might still bandit. Caitlin I’ve just recently found your blog – come over for a run with us in Australia some time!

    • Caitlin July 28, 2011, 8:20 am

      Hehe okay! Can I stay with you 🙂

  • RunningGirl January 10, 2012, 3:18 pm

    Banditing – no. You didn’t pay, or attempt to, in order to participate. Odds are, you could run the same course (or very nearly) any other day of the year.

    Bib transfers – absolutely. I am currently attempting to get a bib to a race that’s been ‘sold out’ since I found out about it – back in April 2011. If, however, you were willing to pay twice the price, and book through an exclusive agent, you could still get a bib legally. (rip off?!) Legal bib transfers for this race concluded a month ago, and the race isn’t for another month – race directors have to expect that people will need to scratch w/in two months of a race, and that people will want to purchase a bib within 6 months of a race (at a reasonable price). Seriously, though, two months is a bit early to lock out bib transfers.

    So, illegal bib transfer, here I come!

  • Chrissie @ Hills for Breakfast February 19, 2012, 6:35 pm

    Sorry, I am against illegal bib transfers and banditing – both pose both safety and moral issues. This post at Runner’s World from a race director does a really good job of explaining them: http://racedirector.runnersworld.com/2009/08/let-us-transfer-our-bib-numbers.html.

    More races are starting to offer legal bib transfer processes or let you defer your registration – great for those races where you get injured and would otherwise be out the money!

  • John September 2, 2012, 6:24 am

    I’ll be running with a transfer bib today for the Disneyland Half Marathon. I don’t see the problem with it. I’m running in substitute for my girlfriend who recently got injured in a car accident. I don’t feel bad about it since I’m running it for her. Plus, I paid for it for her in the first place, so technically I did pay for it.

  • J January 11, 2014, 11:18 pm

    I ran under someone else’s bib for my first half marathon. I was training for a separate one that I was registered for and my friend called me and said her friend couldn’t make it for one the next day. She thought I might want to kind of test the waters and see what it would be like. I said sure and did it, but I had no clue that it wasn’t allowed or that it was frowned upon until like 30 minutes before the race. I was the same age and around the same pace as the girl I was running for. I don’t regret doing it, but it’s very unlikely I’d ever do it again.

  • Suz October 25, 2014, 3:27 am

    I don’t believe in banditing. I do believe in transferring. People should pay and be supportive. Registering for a race is legit to me. Buying/scalping a bib is as well. One can scalp or buy tickets from a third party to any sporting event. If person X buys a bib to a race, there is no reason that I shouldn’t be able to purchase it for the same price (or less. or more. more should probably be illegal but heck, like an NBA/NHL/NFL/NBL ticket, it technically isn’t. Supply and demand). Its super simple to write software to allow bib changes. I write software, it isn’t that bad. Don’t over sell, have a unique id per bib (with some security) and allow a transfer. If you choose to oversell, be like the airlines, offer some prize for not participating. Embracing technology and the fact that lives change over the course of the weeks and months required for race training is a win for race organizers and participants! I’m really bummed that I was injured and can’t participate in an upcoming race. I’m more than bummed, I’m devastated. Sure, I signed the waiver and I signed the form that gave away my money. I would love to ethically give my number to someone else FOR FREE and/or get FOR FREE or BUY a legal number from someone not participating in a shorter race! Either way, the cause made the money. I think it is sad that I’m not supposed to. I challenge race organizers to think outside the proverbial box. Its 2014.

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