Can I wear an Ipod, MP3, Walkman, or headphones during the race?
USATF has recently amended Rule 144.3, which pertains to the use of headphones and other electronic devices, giving race directors the discretion to allow the use of headphones by runners in non-championship races. The rule previously had banned the use of headphones by all runners. Such devices present issues of both safety and politeness, since the user’s ability to hear and properly interact with race officials and with other participants is significantly impaired. Our position, then, is this – while we strongly prefer that participants not wear such devices, we realize that some runners view them as indispensable equipment. We will, therefore, allow their use. If you have any questions, please contact the Race Director.
USATF has amended Rule 144.3, which pertains to the use of headphones and other electronic devices, giving race directors the discretion to allow the use of headphones by runners in non-championship races. The rule previously had banned the use of headphones by all runners. Such devices present issues of both safety and politeness, since the user’s ability to hear and properly interact with race officials and with other participants is significantly impaired. Our position, then, is this – while we strongly prefer that participants not wear such devices, we realize that some runners view them as indispensable equipment. We will, therefore, allow their use. If you have any questions, please contact the Race Director.
