Racing Etiquette for Runners

                                 

Racing Etiquette for Runners

Most people probably think that running a race is as simple as showing up, moving into a pack, and running off at the starting whistle, but there are some very important rules of etiquette involved. Here are ten of them.

Don’t do the pre-race brag.

This happens when someone comes up to a random stranger and begins to describe what an impressive runner he is. You will hear about him running marathons in all fifty states, and if you seem interested, he will continue to gift you with tales of his prowess until the start of the race.

Only offer running advice when asked.

I have asked elite runners for advice on different aspects of running after races, but having someone tell you how to run a hill only because you choose to walk a few feet to catch your breath is inappropriate.

Don’t stop abruptly.

Runners fall into a rhythm and speed, so it can be dangerous if someone stops on a dime in front of you. If you need to stop, move to the side, and hold up your arm to signal you are stopping. By doing this, runners have a chance to adjust. When you pass through the finishing chute, continue all the way through instead of stopping quickly and blocking the people behind you.

Allow room for faster runners to pass.

If you are a slow runner, stay in the slow lane on the right side. If you are running with a group of friends, do not spread out across the road blocking anyone who wants to pass. On trails, move to the side, especially when a runner signals a wish to pass by saying, “On your left.”

Be gracious to volunteers

Races cannot happen without the help from volunteers, and often they spend a long time out in unpleasant weather so that runners can enjoy their sport. We all appreciate encouragement, and hearing “Good job! Keep going!” might be what you need to make it over the next hill.

Encourage fellow runners.

Offering words of encouragement to fellow runners is always welcome. One day, I was struggling up a hill, so I decided to boost my own motivation by encouraging a young lady who had stopped to walk. I said, “C’mon, let’s crush this hill together!” She started to run with me so now I couldn’t stop either because I had committed to making it up the hill with her.

If someone is doing her first race, she might be nervous, so simply saying, “Good job!” can help.

Navigate water stops.

Move to the side if you are going to stop for water. When you are ready to discard your cup, make sure you will not be throwing it at another runner. Throw cups in the bin or off to the side of the road so the road does not become a slippery mess.

Be careful where you spit.

I originally titled this don’t spit because I think spitting is gross, but if you have to do it, make sure it is not going to hit another runner. It’s an even better idea to do it where no one has to hear it either.

Don’t make excuses

Don’t tell the person who beat you that you would have beaten him if you hadn’t broken your leg/had cholera/fallen off a cliff. Be gracious and use any defeat to inspire you to train better.

Placement at the start

The faster racers should be at the front of the start line. If you know you are going to run slowly or walk the course, start more to the back. It can affect the flow of a larger race if too many people are trying to get around a slower group.

Racing is so much fun, and it is a social event as well as a physical one. I have met some of my best friends at races. Practice my suggestions for running etiquette and you will have a great experience.