Runner's Training Tips: Race Etiquette

First point would be to put youself in the approriate place at the start. If you are shooting for a 2:10 marathon, head to the front of the start pack. If you are looking at 5:30, move to the back. On the couse, be aware of who is around you. Try to run a fairly straight line, don't weave back and forth like a drunk. Before you slow to a walk, make sure you are out of the way of folks behind you. If you have to stop to tie a shoe, take a nature break or puke your guts out, pull off the course first.

Chanel, Good luck with the training, and all of the prep-work for this race. If you need to slow down to a walk try to move either as far left or right as possible before slowing considerably. The weaving back and forth doesn't really bother me, but it is also a smart move on your part because it cuts down on the distance traveled. My big area of pet peeve is the water station etiquette, and we probably all have our own take on this. If you are going to stop to drink water at the station do that at the front of the station. Otherwise keep moving. Also try not walk in the center of a water station. And finally, if you can throw your cup in the trash cans or near the bags. Those folks are volunteers and don't need to be digging the cups out of sewer grates. Mainly relax and have fun. Most of the folks out there won't be half as considerate as you. Good luck!