It is a sad day for running in Toronto. The Jeans Marines organization supported some of its members to cheat in the world class Washington Marine Corps marathon, bringing the sport into disrepute. In asking that the medals be returned, the organization says they have done all they can do. In fact they have not.
A Marathon is probably the only sport in the world where everyone is equal. World champions line up at the start with first timers, club runners with charity heroes. At the finish line, no matter whether it takes you two hours or six, you have the pride of the same medal, there are no losers.
Yet running is not about the medal, it is about self-accomplishment. The most amazing thing about a marathoner crossing the finish line is what it gives that individual in self-worth, inspiration and determination. So often they take these traits back into the rest of their lives to break through walls and complete their life goals that stand before them. The training also provides a camaraderie & community that is unbeatable.
What happened in Washington did not contribute to the lives of those individuals who were misguided into cheating. In fact it stripped them of one of the most amazing opportunities a human being can ever experience. It devalued all those who trained and completed the race in its entirety and discredits all those who coach and support runners to their goals, especially the many amazing people that are members of or who support the Jeans Marines organization. The real error in judgement was not the decision to cut the race short by the participants, but the unrealistic expectation promised them that could not be delivered.
The real disappointment though is that the Jeans Marines leadership does not seem tuned in. In stating that they have done everything by asking for the medals to be returned, they miss a golden opportunity. In fact, they try to negate responsibility by claiming not to be the first charity group to conduct this short cut, as if in someway this makes it all acceptable.
Unfortunately over 800 participants were unable to complete the Washington Marine Corps Marathon, but these people know they tried their best; they will be stronger for the experience and many will be back another year to set the record straight.
There is something more the Jeans Marines can do, yet their leader Dr. Jean Marmoreo is silent. Jean, I urge you to stand up and take full responsibility; offer up a full and unequivocal apology to all marathoners; and support those people that were misguided, into recommitting to complete the true experience that they deserve. Yes, ma’am. You can do the right thing!
Jonathan 'JJ' Hughes
Toronto RunningRats
www.runningrats.com