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Near the beginning of this debate I was one of the dissenting voices that expressed bad feelings for Jean Mausermio. Since reading further responses, I learned that JeansMarines is actually not a 'charity' organization. I'm sickened by this. This realization allows me two comments.
Firstly, what in heck's name is a race like the MCM allowing 'charity entries' to non-charity runners. In a race that's so big as to refuse runners who do not enter on time, including these organizations is criminal. I hope that every race director reading this post evaluates who is allowed 'guaranteed entry'.
Secondly, TNT runners and coaches. Relax. I know that you've got your knickers in a knot about some comments that you feel are all inclusive. I know some of your runners finish in less than 6 hours. Good for you. You ought to be proud.
However, realize that other runners are sick and tired of guaranteed entry spots being taken up just because you are raising money for (a TERRIFIC) cause. It's not about the fact that you are good people. You are. It's not about the fact that you are trying to combat cancer (respectfully, you are).
It's about the fact that marathoning is A SPORT.
Major League baseball doesn't guarantee a few at bats every year for the fans who raise the most money. There are no 'free throws' set aside in the NBA for the fans who are the most charitable. There are no field goal attempts reserved for the NFLs best fans.
We are runners and athletes as many of you charity runners are as well. Don't take up my entry spot into a race because you are raising money for a charity.
Let this be a call to ALL RACE DIRECTORS to ELIMINATE guaranteed entry spots to all but elites.
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