Why bequeath? - Page 2 - Spring Marathon

Wolfy (iRunner)

26/11/2002 at 14:06

Oracle some interesting points but I have to say that from a runner's point of view....we just want to run the damn thing!!!

I think one has to 'gloss over' the issues around the ballot if one seriously wants to run FLM because there ain't no other way of getting in lets face it!

Until there is an alternative race in the UK which has all of the fantastic components that FLM has to offer the majority of people simply have to grin and bear it. It's quite amazing to read the tension on the other threads of people waiting to hear...how powerful running has become!

Let's face it guys it's only a race.

a chimp writes

26/11/2002 at 14:16

Yes, Wolfy, but why does it have to be so manipulated? It's so British.

They can't just make it simply a race for good runners, with places simply going to good runners. That's what annoys me. The thing is interfered with to the point where it is beyond recognition. There is no central philosophy or central objective to the thing.

shin splints

26/11/2002 at 14:21

Oracle - Youre right it's not a perfect system.

Here's another thing to consider. The implication is that they can only get away with it because of the fact that it is "all in the name of charity."

Again, youre right maybe it is the only way that they can get away with treating a "customer" so badly.

That said, it is also their trump card people hold the whole event in such esteem and it generates emotions that move thousands to tears. Without the charity "wrapper" it wouldnt be half the event - you wouldnt get the crowds and emotion that makes it. You wouldnt get the heart wrenching stories that we hear each year.

Imagine the Tesco's Direct (all for profit) Marathon with some big fat cat saying come on guys give me your money.

Mr A

26/11/2002 at 14:23

Actually Oracle, when you put it the way you did on page 2 (comparisons with Tesco Direct posting), I find myself having to admit that you have a perfectly valid point, which I do, to some extent, agree with. I think where we disagree is in the principle of what the FLM stands for.

And on that, I think we have to agree to disagree.

a chimp writes

26/11/2002 at 14:25

SS, I did promise Mr A I'd leave him in peace, so...

Wolfy (iRunner)

26/11/2002 at 14:36

SS I had similar thoughts after my last post. You are quite right that FLM wouldn't be held in anywhere near as much regard as it is if charity was the main focus of the event.

As long as people/animals etc. all over the world do benefit then who are we to complain eh?

We can run/we can raise money/we can do another marathon if we don't get in FLM, what choices have the underprivileged?

Also not agreeing on everything is ok from time to time!

shin splints

26/11/2002 at 14:48

Hey Wolfy,

I like you, i like you a lot. I'm not used to people agreeing with me - sure youre not my mother? Just looked at the picture but its unconclusive.

Wolfy (iRunner)

26/11/2002 at 14:55

SS: what a good looking mother you must have eh?

26/11/2002 at 14:59

Still wondering if Mr A is my mother?????

26/11/2002 at 14:59

Again the picture is inconclusive!

shin splints

26/11/2002 at 15:04

Well i had to get my looks from someone - i don't tend to adopt the same posture angle as you though.

I'm sure you will understand that its not that i cant upload a picture - just that i don't want everyone else to feel a bit inadequate!!

Just had a thought that maybe it was the Mr A picture i checked by mistake?

Debbie Reeves

26/11/2002 at 16:46

To all in the above discussion,I just looked into this forum by chance & I have been totally entertained. What an indepth & topical debate you had.I however did not bequeath my cheque and have had no money taken either so I wait with anticipaction as to wether or not I get in. I wish you all the best for whatever run you manage to do.Good luck for the FLM.

Wolfy (iRunner)

26/11/2002 at 17:08

Debbie, glad to be part of an interesting debate!

I have a 'good for age' place so I probably don't feel as passionately about NOT getting in FLM 2003 as I have on the previous 4 years that I got the big knock back.

But each year of not getting in I picked myself up and ran through the winter with bitter determination and on 2 occasions actually set off for a 20-22 mile run on FLM day just so that I could feel part of it somehow!

I am mad I know!

Debbie Reeves

26/11/2002 at 19:22

Wolfy

I must admit that I am totally new to this as I have only been running since March.Hit 31 and after having 2 kids I needed to start something cheap and fun to get me on the right track & running fits the bill.If unlucky in FLM I will try for the F1/2 Marathon.

Waapster

26/11/2002 at 22:50

I have to admit I've been quietly pissed of by Oracle's obsession with FLM. I tend not to respond to these threads because I can't see the point of prolonging my own agony. If I disagree with you, fine, I don't need to parade my views.

However...

That 'Tesco Direct' post was the best I've read in ages. Totally changed my view of the whole scene. This really shows the power of metaphor. I get your argument now. And agree with you.

Well done.

Waap.

Wolfy (iRunner)

27/11/2002 at 09:14

Funny isn't it, often it isn't what you say but how you say it that counts!

Moe

27/11/2002 at 12:05

Tesco have already been there, remember the Computers for schools debate?

At the end of the day FLM are selling a product and obviously do it well as the population clamour for it. Perhaps the National lottery should take a look at the way it's done?

Moe

27/11/2002 at 12:06

come to that we've already been there too, haven't we Oracle?

Womble

27/11/2002 at 12:36

Why should FLM only be for good runners? If all races were only for good runners how would the less good ever get to improve? We can't all win our first FLM you know.

Moe

27/11/2002 at 13:15

Womble, like I say Oracle's been there before ('an answer from FLM themselves'), please don't get him started again.