[alan fletcher]

so I'm thinking about doing Boston as a bandit this year. i have been training for a marathon at the end of May but I feel I'm at a peak in my training right now, and I'm not sure I can hold it another 8 weeks. I've been training with a friend who is doing Boston so my schedule has been a little like his.<br><br>
I feel I can do a comfortable 3:10 so I won't embarass myself.<br><br>
Anyone tried this? I can make a pretty good replica of his bib on the computer and as long as we don't run right next to each other we should be OK.<br><br>
Should I do it?

 

[Nirvana91]

Nope.

 

[Mailbox Head]

You're not going to get a lot of support for that here I'd guess. Why not wait until it's legit? You know you can run a qualifying race, and I'd think it would mean a lot more and be a better experience if you do it as intended.

 

[crunningman]

I've run Boston (4) times. And if I go this year it will be #5. I qualified to run it, which means I have to spend money for a plane ticket/hotel/cab/food,etc. I earned my way there just like everyone else. Heck, even the charity runners earn their right to run the race. Not by qualifying, but by raising money for a great cause.<br><br>
To answer your question: No you shouldn't!<br>
I'm assuming you have never run a marathon so why would you want Boston to be your first. You think you can run 3:10 on this course, but beware.<br><br><b>Edited to Add: Current marathon PR from Blog: "4:10:10"</b><br><br>
I find it interesting how someone always brings this topic up right before the race.

 

[mutthound]

I think you should. There will be several people who signed up for the race who will be a DNS, so, you will just be taking their spot on the road. If you are running a 3:10 like everyone else, you will fit right in and nobody will even notice you.<br><br>
Also, make sure that you run through the finish line and demand a medal and blanket as you finished like everyone else. Check to see if they have any leftover shirts for the race to, if you do the race, you deserve it, and if you BQ for next year, kick and scream for them to use your time this year as your BQ as well.<br><br>
Have a happy Patriots day.

 

[mutthound]

Usually 42 year old guys from California suggest banditing around April 1st.<br><br>
Check your calenders fellas.

 

[alan fletcher]

OK - so I got 3 responses before someone noticed the calendar. <img alt="banana.gif" src="http://files.kickrunners.com/smilies/banana.gif"><br><br>
and good luck to those who are running Boston, I will see you in 2009.

 

[arc918]

Alan - what kind of headphones will you be wearing when you bandit the race?

 

[alan fletcher]

excellent question. obviously it needs to be some that completely block out all sound. that way i wont be able to hear the race director yelling at me for being a bandit.<br><br>
i was also thinking about jumping in about mile 5, so i don't have to deal with the hassles of the start etc.

 

[hawk765]

hmmmm, so, you're planning on running a 3:10? That's fast - you can wear my bib if you want (and my chip) - I'd love to have that time recorded. You wouldn't mind wearing a pink running skirt would you?

 

[Nirvana91]

Make sure you stop right after you cross the finish line so you can get a couple different poses for the picture at the end.

 

[crunningman]

It always feels good when you can answer your own questions.<br>
Keep plugging away! There is no doubt you will qualify for the race.

 

[alan fletcher]

i was gonna go thru the finish line 2 or 3 times to make sure i get a good shot.

 

[alan fletcher]

pink? it may clash with my orange jog bra. but sure, i'll give it a shot.

 

[Tamster]

<img alt="laughing7.gif" src="http://files.kickrunners.com/smilies/laughing7.gif">

 

[arc918]

plus you can get medals for all your friends and family...<br><br>
startwise I'd suggest getting up with the elites, but then launch into a Gallowalk every 1/2 mile

 

[muzicgrl]

I really think you should do it, with headphones, with a fuel belt...and be sure to gallowalk that 3:10:00. Good luck!!

 

[Tamster]

And don't forget to have conversations with one of those elites up front. They love talking and getting to know their fellow runners.

 

[CMJHawk86]

And along with the pink skirt, make sure you wear a NY Yankees t-shirt. That will really get a rise out of the locals. <img alt="biggrin.gif" src="http://files.kickrunners.com/smilies/biggrin.gif">

 

[mmoonptdeux]

Don't forget some New York Giants garb and an inscription "18-1" on your hat...just to make sure the reaction is a complete one.