Running race day with ipod (Page 3)

I agree 100% - it's not a bad or dangerous thing. But in this case there is a process in place for changing the rules which doesn't include blatantly ignoring them.

I don't care whether headphones are allowed on the run or not, but I will follow whatever rule USAT has in place because I respect the organization and my competitors enough to do so. That's what got folks a little riled.

Well said. I propose that the thread ends here.

Here is the USAT board of directors: http://www.usatriathlon.org/about-usat/board-of-directors.aspx and here is the link where you can contact USAT: http://www.usatriathlon.org/about-usat/contact-us.aspx

If you have an issue with the rules, that is the appropriate forum to talk to people that can make the change.

Until then, respect your RD, fellow competitors, and USAT and just follow the rules.

I really don't like to run, but running with music helps me feel better about the run. Its also one of the few times I get to listen to music I like because the Mrs. doesn't exactly apprecite Celtic Punk Rock. I even have a waterproof case and headphones so I can swim with my iPod.

Yet I like that there is no music allowed during the run at a triathlon, makes it just that much harder, maybe not physically but definately mentally. there is a differance between HIM/IM and Half marathons and marathons.

Besides, if I came upon somebody during the run in a tri with headphones in, knowing how exhausted I was and how much I dislike running I'd be really tempted to give that person a 'high five'...

...in the face...  

...with my shoe...

(or at least remember their bib number to the USAT Official...)

Lisa's statement should've about ended this thread, before we went off on a tangent about standing up against the man, etc., etc.

This has nothing to do with anyone being oppressed or your right to anything being violated.  It's to keep you, and your competitors, safe throughout the race.

To the OP:  it's a good question, though I personally disagree that it should even be debated.  But then again I don't even own an iPod. 

Understood and I'm sorry if any posts came across as harsh.

I think you'll find that you're happier without the head phones after completing the race.  There's so much camaraderie that I'd hate to miss it (but I'm an extreme extrovert that will talk to a rock).

I'm still very new with only 4 races and have been happy and energized to hear all the sounds of the race: the cheers and encouragement from fellow racers and spectators, the bikes from later waves going by etc.  

Something to consider also is that many of these races are run through neighborhoods and yesterday's race for me was no exception.  Several houses along the route had their owners in lawn chairs spraying people down as they came by and unless you've got waterproof gear, you'd have to turn that down - and it was really welcome around mile 2 yesterday!

Enjoy your first race and please let us know how it goes!

twomarks

USAT has never backed down from their stance on no headphones.  Whether you think it's safe or not is irrelevant, their insurance premiums are based on the ban of headphones.  And if someone ever gets hurt in an incident where headphones were a factor, their insurance company is going to say too bad. 

I run with my iPod every single time, too. My first tri is in less than two weeks. This Saturday I am going to wear my tri suit and do a bike/run brick with no iPod. That's all the iPod-free practice I plan on giving myself. I know that on race day there will be so many distractions, nervousness, adrenaline and stimulation that I will NOT miss it!

Doubt it.  Any insurance lawyer worth his/her salt would seek to deny any claim involving a clear (& intentional) safety rules violation. 

Don't worry I won't use an iPod now that everyone informed me. Thanks! I will attend the pre race meeting anyways to learn everything. It is just my first Olympic ... I did a USAT sprint 2 years ago and have cheered many friends on at tri's and iron mans and things. Plus I have ran my whole life so I do know some race etiquite. I just didn't know the underline rule like many road races where it is not allowed but EVERYONE does it anyway. 

Thanks everybody