And there are no timeouts in running. To my knowledge, correct me if I'm wrong, but running and other endurance sports like triathlons are some of the only sports where there are no timeouts. In addition to no timeouts, two minute warnings, halftimes, or intermissions, endurance sports offer a non-stop continuous challenge from start to finish. In addition to not adhering to many conventional sport timing rules, running also comes without the ugly that seems to scar many of the traditional sports these days.
There are no scandals, no collective bargaining agreements (other than the self bargaining that goes on when deciding whether or not to get out of bed to complete a morning run), and there is little controversy. Sure, track and field and professional running events have had their fair share of scandal and illegal activity from Rosie Ruiz to Marian Jones. But in this day-and-age where the number of scandal stories outnumber the number highlights on any given night, running by comparison, has stay pretty untainted.
While the professional level of sport has had some controversy and scandal, for most of us casual runners, running club members, and Saturday Morning 5Kers, I'm confident when I say we have a clean record. I seriously doubt the average 5ker dopes before a race or even considers doing anything remotely illegal prior to or during a race. Most of us are out there because we love the sport. So take note college football, NBA basketball, and other professional athletes. Maybe you should all go for a run!
