I became eligible to apply to Marathon Maniacs in December after I completed 3 marathons in 8 weeks. Back in the Spring, when I first attempted this but didn't make it due to the Achilles injury, I thought it would be really cool to call myself a "maniac." Not that I think maniacs are any better than the general population but I liked the idea because it was a little challenge for me. In order to get there, I had to accomplish something that not everyone was doing. Unfortunately, while running Asbury Park marathon, I got really turned off at the thought of joining the maniac club. You know how they say one bad apple spoils the bunch, well, that's exactly what a maniac did for me that day. There was a guy out on the course who was walking, which is fine, but while he was strolling along, he was texting. Since this was a looped course, I had the pleasure of passing him several times and each time he was just milling around. One time he was standing on the boardwalk shooting the shit with someone, one time he was window shopping and at least twice if I recall correctly he was texting. I know it was his day and he could do with it as he pleased, but I just thought maniacs were more, well, more into running marathons. Don't get me wrong. I have a lot of friends who are maniacs and they are all serious about their marathons, so please don't think I believe this one guy represents all maniacs out there.
*I'm editing this to make it clear that I have respect for anyone who completes a marathon regardless of how they get themselves across the finish line. I guess I just expected more out of a maniac based on my experience with other maniacs. To me, finishing a marathon in 2 hours or 10 hours is an accomplishment...and even more so when you're giving it your all.*
So, I have yet to sign up for the club. Yea, I think it'd be fun to wear the singlet, especially when I run my first back to back marathons (which I will do some day), but I'm not sure it's really that big of a deal to call myself one now. I will say this though, regardless of what I decide, I will never introduce myself to someone by my maniac number. Never.
What do you guys think? Have you had any good/bad experiences with maniacs in your races? Is it a goal of yours to join some day?
Don't forget today is the last day to enter the ALO giveaway!!
12 comments:
I think everyone does marathons for their own reasons and we have to be accepting of all those reasons, even if they don't match ours.
Interesting question... I guess what it comes down to is whether you feel like by wearing the singlet, you're representing all members of the Maniac club, and whether you're comfortable representing diverse reasons that people complete marathons, even if you don't necessarily respect them all.
I am with Amanda on this one.
I'm in the Maniacs, but I am not sure of my number. :) I don't even have a singlet! (I'll probably order one of the Diva ones, at some point...) But, it is fun to be a part of it, for my own reasons. I worked hard to get in, and I did. Yay!
I think part of why I'm hesitant to wear the singlet, honestly, is because there is a level of judgement that comes with wearing it. And I am sooooo not fast. I'm just a normal middle of the packer, who just loves marathoning.
They're all very nice. All that I've met, anyway. :)
I would probably have a similar reaction... yes, everyone has their own reasons and "ways" for running marathons, but I can't help not having a lot of respect for those who just show up and go through the motions. A marathon is a really big deal, whether it's your first or 100th. I think it should be treated as such - always. JMHO. :)
I think what would bother me is not so much that he's walking (who knows, maybe he had an injury and was only able to walk that one), but that he was texting and stuff. Then it really means that you could care less about that race, and worse, it annoys the OTHER runners who are trying their best.
Sure would make being a maniac lose its sparkle for me too :(
Especially now that the maniacs have become so large (close to 3000 members) it's a pretty diverse group, so it's definitely understandable that there can be some 'bad apples.'
One event that sticks out in my mind in particular is the Turtle Marathon in Roswell earlier this year (I only did the half) which was full of maniacs, several of whom walked the entire distance and were finishing a triple (3 races in 3 states in 3 days). While they weren't there 'racing' they were really cheerful and excited the whole time, talking away amongst themselves, and I thought that it made for a nice atmosphere. I never would have known that they were finishing a triple, or on their 42nd marathon for the year, etc had I not asked! Every last one was happy to say hi and cheer, even as they trudged along in pain.
Anyway, I can say from my experience, I enjoy being a part of the group because of the enthusiasm that other MMs share for it. When I wear my singlet during a race, or other maniacs know who I am, I've always been cheered on and supported whole-heartedly. It's been a fun way to meet other people with similar crazy interests.
It seems like they have pretty awesome comraderie (having run with a maniac during a race - they all cheer for each other, etc), but I don't really have a desire to be one. I will qualify with Boston to Big Sur but won't be applying... nothing against them just not my thing :)
I have seen the singlets in races but never really encountered anything pro or con. I've thought for a while it would be kinda cool to be part of the group, but it's not really a career goal for me.
I got my Maniac status back in June, but have yet to sign up but mainly because I don't consider myself a Maniac.. I won't be doing the CRAZY amount of Marathons consistently so it sorta feels false for me to have the label.
I get what you are saying!!! Guess the club has all sorts... Atleast the guy was pushing you out of his way every loop
Whoa, that's awful about the texting dude. I stand divided on the texting issue. I got a lot of texts during my races -- I needed the encouragement -- but I didn't text back. The only time I whipped out that tiny keyboard was if I was texting the boy about which mile I was at. The fact you caught him doing that multiple times is ... well ... not as encouraging.
I am with you on people have their own rights and reasons for doing (walking or running) a marathon. Obviously he's done quite a few in a short amount of time to be able to in the club, and that requires a good deal of dedication and discipline. Good for him!
I have my singlet and I've only worn it during training runs. I don't even know what my MM number is. I know lots of people who qualify but don't want to join the club (really, all it does it take your money... and introduce you to others, if you're so inclined). I think the MM is filled with kind people though -- some are really fast, and some walk their races. To each their own. But texting?! Can't say I'd be proud of that one. :)
xoxo,
A
I think you follow your heart, what you do is your journey no one elses..
Post a Comment