Headphones Ban at the 5k
This year a new rule was implemented at the Boston Corporate Challenge - no headphones. Yup runners were not allowed to wear headphones while they were running.
This was a bit of a surprise for some runners as many use headphones as motivation to keep on running.
Part of the waver that runners approved when they signed up.
Why would race organizers ban headphones?
Apparently the JP Morgan Corporate Challenge is now following the competition rules of the USA Track and Field Association (USATF). According to the USATF 2017 Rules of Competition, audio devices are seen as an assistance to athletes:
Rule 144 - Assistance to Athletes
(b) The visible possession or use by athletes of video, audio, or communications devices in the competition area. The Games Committee for an LDR event may allow the use of portable listening devices not capable of receiving communication; however, those competing in Championships for awards, medals, or prize money may not use such devices.
(c) The use of any technology or appliance that provides the user with an unfair advantage which would not have been obtainable using equipment complying with the Rules.
Game Day
While the no-headphone ban was communicated several times before race day, runners still arrived with their headphones and portable electronic devices.
Arrows highlighting some runners that have audio devices.
Personal 5k Playlist
This is the playlist that I listen to while getting ready for the 5k.
| Song | Artist | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| All I do is Win | DJ Khaled | Every race that I run starts off with this song. |
| This is How We Do it | Montell Jordan | |
| This is my Fight Song | Rachel Platten | "This is my running song" |
| 7 Years | Lukas Graham | |
| The Morning After | Maureen McGovern | This run isn't all that painful. |
| Lord Knows | Meek Mills | |
| Days of Elijah | Robin Mark | |
| Ireland Call | Celtic Thunder | "Together standing tall" Good mid run pump up song. |
| Dance Like Nobody's Watching | Laura Marano | Run as if nobody is watching |
| Ray of Light | Madonna | And I feel like I just got home - a good way finish the race. |