In a post in early spring, we reported on the debate currently raging over the use of iPods in US Track and Field (USATF) sanctioned races; specificaly the pressure runners brought to bear at the Big Sur Marathon to allow the use of such devices. Here's an update:

In December, USA Track and Field will be reconsidering the general ban on the use of headphones during race events. Evidently, the rules regarding the use of such devices has been inconsistently enforced across races and the current "banned from the event for life" penalties have been protested by many runners in the form of foregoing such events.

For their part, race directors have been left to enforce the USATF regulations on their own.  Grandma's Marathon in Minnesota (June 22) strictly enforces the ban, while the Portland Marathon (October 5) actively promotes itself as being "MP3 friendly."  

Jill Geer, spokeswoman for USA Track & Field, said the ban was "basically an insurance issue," because rates rise substantially if headphones are allowed. Each sanctioned race receives liability insurance from USA Track & Field, and it would be up to each race director to enforce the ban. If the ban was not enforced, the races would incur the liability in the event of an accident caused by someone using headphones, Geer said. 

But Jennifer Lamkins, a teacher from Long Beach, California and competitor in last year's Marine Corps Marathon had an equally cogent point;  "If they are banning them because we can't hear directions, does that mean they should ban deaf people, too?"

With Marathon participation reaching all time highs and participation in these races expanding way beyond the relatively small community of elite runners, an increasing number of competitors use music for motivation during training (and competition.)  

We'll be watching what happens in December and keep you posted.
 

Image: copyright USATF

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Tags: iPod, usatf, headphone ban, headphone sanctions, mp3

I save my iPod for work and for the subway. You weren't aloud to run with the distraction of an iPod in school...I am accustomed to listening and learning from the pounding of my feet. However, I do not feel like it should be something mandated...give me a break! Posted by: Karen on Jun 26, 2008 at 11:20 AM

i need my iPod like I need water...it hydrates my soul! Posted by: Sarah on Jun 20, 2008 at 10:37 AM

I think a lot of runners agree with you...and they are putting pressure on organizing committees to forego the USATF rules and allow the devices. Gee...I wonder if the Nike sponsored events allow iPods? Posted by: bmoore on Jun 19, 2008 at 10:29 AM

How I feel about it personally, is if we would like to listen to music and run, then we should be able to. When you add insurance issues to anything, or an event, for that matter there will always be rules. I'm pretty easy; if I sign up for something, I follow the rules, on the other hand, If I do not agree with the rules...I would never have signed up in the first place. Posted by: Betty on Jun 19, 2008 at 09:56 AM