tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7506984982849038162.post2683557057021015018..comments2024-01-30T02:17:37.915-08:00Comments on Long Distance Voyager: Cancelling the ING New York City MarathonPhil McCarthyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04685422680744891454noreply@blogger.comBlogger3125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7506984982849038162.post-71734415249091969582012-11-02T08:47:35.039-07:002012-11-02T08:47:35.039-07:00Hmm. Thanks Phil. Like you, about 72hrs ago my ini...Hmm. Thanks Phil. Like you, about 72hrs ago my initial reaction was to downplay the overall cost of the marathon, and to highlight the recovery work done. "they can do this, no sweat," I thought to myself. <br />I saw the water coming up the battery, and somewhere in my brain, I did what I do in a 100, which is I to minimize threats and damage for the sake of finishing. <br />The only thing I might add to your words here is that in this instance the cost of 'finishing' has too great of a collateral effect. As much as I resent NYRR for all of their recent changes, be they forced, contrived, or necessary, I feel it will all be for naught if they should continue on. The good will they have generated in various communities with programs and etc. will be flushed and then that too will need to be rebuilt. <br />I feel a sort of quixotic arrogance is coming into play here at this point by the management. I hope 'Old Ironsides Mary' has the good sense to know when to fight another day, and the ability to present her commercial/buisness/logistical prowess she is lauded for with respect to pulling off a difficult postponement. Shannon MacGregorhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/07931660935146744382noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7506984982849038162.post-45461620131548912362012-11-02T07:34:35.925-07:002012-11-02T07:34:35.925-07:00Phil, your sentiments resonate with me perfectly. ...Phil, your sentiments resonate with me perfectly. Like you, I don't have disdain for any runners who choose to participate this weekend. But I agree that they should run with solemnity and respect for those who have lost so much. I have seen certain runners express (on Facebook, mainly) that 'giddyness' you mentioned when they heard that the race was not cancelled, and I was disheartened by their insensitivity. <br /><br />I agree that the marathon organizers and the city FEEL that they can't cancel. Hoenestly, I think it comes down to a lack of courage. If they had strength, they would have made what I feel is the right choice. And you're right, they would have survived.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7506984982849038162.post-32017320024688617342012-11-02T07:22:08.778-07:002012-11-02T07:22:08.778-07:00Phil, I think until people's basic needs follo...Phil, I think until people's basic needs following this distastrous storm are addressed, it is wrong to hold the race...no race should be bigger than our humanity. I think it would be much more appropriate if the powers-that-be in the marathon would direct their resources toward those still in need of the basics. Runners will understand, and the marathon entity will gain public respect as a result. Anyway, great post, hope you're well.Alene Gone Badhttps://www.blogger.com/profile/09887360033395271217noreply@blogger.com