IN DEFENSE OF BANDITS

 

In running terms a bandit is one who runs the race without benefit of a racing number or paid registration.  As a group they seem to be almost universally berated.  This is almost always listed as if it was among the worst of runner transgression.  To some it appears to be dishonest; yet a number of good runners continue to practice it.  Is it possible that they are being given a bad rap???

Notice first what they are giving up.  They are not eligible for trophies or drawings.  They do not get a shirt.  Their time is not official.  Most do not partake of any refreshments.  All they have done is to run the race.

So far as I remember, I have never run a race as a bandit.  My circumstances simply did not fit; but I have developed both an understanding and sympathy for those who do.  Let me suggest some circumstances where an argument might be made in their favor.  You will then be left to decide for yourself.

1.  WHEN RUNNING WITH OR FOR SOMEONE ELSE.  We all recognize this in children's races.  Why is it not legitimate at other times, if this is truly the purpose?  Don't some of our youngsters (and perhaps some "oldsters") need some watching after?  (This naturally does not include pacing potential winners.)

2.  WHEN RECOVERING FROM AN INJURY.  When they know that they cannot compete; but still want the fellowship and camaraderie of other runners.  Why would we want to cut them off until they are well?  Maybe they can't even finish; but they can still be with us on race day.  (Remember, of course, that competing is not limited to potential winners.  We compete with other runners, with ourselves and with the clock.)

3.  WHEN RUNNING A DOUBLE.  This seriously limits a runner in one or both events.  There are only a few runners in the Metroplex who can really compete under these circumstances.  Some do it only to get their mileage in; and don't want to have to do a second run alone.  How much should they pay for the second race?

How we need a consistent and reasonable policy on this! Some race directors are so glad to have these runner participate that no charge at all is made for the second race (feeling that they have already paid their dues by entering the first).  In contrast, a few others demand FULL payment for the second race or double the original race cost.  (This seems grossly unfair, since the runner certainly does not want another shirt; and will not be eating twice as many refreshments.  Furthermore, as I have already said, their chance of any award is diminished.) More reasonably, some may ask for $2 to $5 for a second race number (which most runners would be glad to pay).  We just need to be thoughtful and fair to those accepting this challenge.

4.  WHEN YOUR AGE GROUP IS NOT INCLUDED.  A 50 & Up division has not really provided for anyone above 55.  Listing 65 to 99 is no more than a dodge.  Any competitor deserves at least a chance for an award in their own age group.  When we do not provide it, we encourage people to either stay at home or bandit.

These suggestions do not even touch on a forgotten purse or billfold, or where money is a problem.  Neither does it deal with who owns the roads and trails?  Do they suddenly belong exclusively to our group because we have planned a race on them?

Admittedly this is a delicate subject.  It is not to encourage any large-scale avoiding of paid registration.  That would certainly hurt our sport.  Race directors have a difficult job at best; and we are indebted to them.  The charities being supported are also worthy.  We like supporting them...but does that keep us from understanding extenuating circumstances?

Most runners would not want to bandit normally.  If for no other reason, because of ego.  We want to be counted.  We want to be competitors.  We want to feel that we have a chance to win; and we certainly want the credit if we do.  It is only under extreme circumstances that we would want to give all that up.  But if someone decides to do so, would it really hurt us to be more understanding???