quote:<HR>Originally posted by alylew:
You can't do that. they check bib of everyone that goes to hopkinton on the bus. They also check anyone entering the starting area.<HR>
That's not true. You can do it. You can get to Hopkinton on your own without a bus and 3000 or so bandits line up in back of the last corrall every year. In fact, based on bandits alone, it is the 4th largest road race in New England.
That said, it's wrong and you shouldn't do it. Bandits drain reousrces from those who pay, and of course, it's basically a low form of running a road race. Bandits are univited.
From the BAA FAQ page:
"I will never be able to qualify. Can I run the race as an unofficial or "bandit" runner, or is there any other way I could officially enter?
No, please do not run if you have not officially entered in the race. Race amenities along the course and at the finish, such as fluids, medical care, and traffic safety, are provided based on the number of official entrants. Any addition to this by way of unofficial participants, adversely affects our ability to ensure a safe race for everyone.
The B.A.A. makes a limited number of non-qualified entries available to local charities for fundraising purposes. If you have not qualified and want to participate, this may be an option for you. Visit our official charities page for more information. Charities for the 2005 Boston Marathon will be announced after Labor Day, September 6, 2004. "
If you can't qualify, and still want to run, consider raising money for a charity like Dana Farber to get a number.
Now is a good time to sign up. There are 18 different charities[/URL" target="_blank">
