Letter to the editor: True runners should skip the Runnin O’ the Green

Many years ago I received a Runnin O’ the Green race entry form in the mail. As a participant in local road races, I thought the route and timing obstacles seemed peculiar. I happened to see a fellow running farmer friend so I asked him about it. I’ll never forget his reply, “That’s not a race, that’s a running drunk!” So it was and so it is. Oh, they cover their tracks with “It’s for charity” and did we mention the ubiquitous “economic impact?” Little mention is made of the mess and stepped-up police surveillance. A dichotomy is presented. On the one hand, something that is healthy and good for you — running. On the other, something that isn’t — alcohol.

If you are a runner and in a quandary, I have a suggestion. Go for a run on Saturday, send a check to Camp Grassick and stay far away from the Runnin O’ the Green.

Tags: opinion, letters, running