I have seen people get so riled up when talking about bandit running that you would think they were in a Presidential debate! You say “bandit” around a group of runners and it’s like you said a dirty word.
Race directors and racers cry thievery. Loudly.
Some argue that it’s okay if you don’t partake in the amenities, i.e. water stops. Others argue that the bandits make the route more crowded and possibly unsafe. Bandits can also cause insurance and safety issues. What if the bandit gets hit by a car? You bet the race director is going to come under scrutiny. Some runners become bandits to avoid paying the race fee, while enjoying a closed course with cops directing traffic that non-bandit runners helped pay for. Race fees also go to the charity the race supports, if it supports one, so bandit runners are also gypping the sponsored charity. Pretty much, bandits are reaping the benefits of what others bad for.
What about (bandit) pacers? Or non-legal bib transfers?
What about that awesome friend who is going to pace you? They shouldn’t have to pay... or should they? Some runners say that the friend gives you an advantage and it’s not fair. Others say if they’re runing, even with no goal other than helping, they should pay.
If you wear someone else bibs, then you are possibly messing up results. For example, a guy’s lady can’t run, so he wears her bib so the bib doesn’t go to waste. The problem is he’s fast and wins her age group. So the bib didn’t go to waste, BUT he stole someone’s chance at glory and messes up the scoring for the local running club!
So, come on race directors, look into bib transfers! Most runners understand that their entry fees have been spent way before race day, but life happens, so why not make it where at least someone can (fairly) run the race? PLUS, it means an additional source of revenue for your race!
