So You Want to Defer the Boston Marathon: A Guide for the Chronically Unprepared (or Just Busy)
Ah, the Boston Marathon. A legendary test of endurance, a bucket list dream for many runners... and also a race that holds its entry fees tighter than Fort Knox guards their gold. Signed up with ambitious dreams, only to be struck by the sudden realization that, hey, maybe running 26.2 miles isn't exactly on the top of your to-do list right now? Fear not, fellow procrastinators and champions of rescheduling, because this guide is here to break down the nitty-gritty of deferring the Boston Marathon.
Facing the Facts: Defer or Donezo?
Let's get this out of the way first: deferring the Boston Marathon is generally a no-go. Entrances are notoriously non-refundable, non-transferable, and non-deferrable. They basically take the phrase "in it to win it" a little too literally. However, there is a glimmer of hope!
The Pregnancy and Postpartum Power Play
The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A., the lovely folks who organize the race) understands that life throws curveballs (sometimes literally, if you trip over a rogue banana peel during training). They offer a pregnancy and postpartum deferral policy. Basically, if you become pregnant after registering, you can defer your entry to one of the next two subsequent Boston Marathons (or other B.A.A. races). This is a two-time deferral limit, so plan your marathoning adventures accordingly!
But wait, you say, what if I'm not expecting? Well, my friend, that's where things get a little tricky.
Beyond Bunnies in the Oven: Creative Deferral Hacks (That Probably Won't Work)
Look, we all love a good challenge, so here are some (admittedly far-fetched) ideas to try and convince the B.A.A. to let you defer. Remember, these are for entertainment purposes only, and the success rate is likely somewhere between "finding a unicorn" and "winning the lottery while simultaneously being struck by lightning."
- Claim sudden amnesia and forget you signed up. This might work if you can also convince them you forgot how to run.
- Allege a sudden infestation of rabid squirrels on the course. Just be prepared to back this up with convincing squirrel-related evidence (photos, therapy bills, maybe a slightly chewed shoe).
- Offer to run the race backwards. This shows dedication, right? Though, they might just be concerned about you running into other runners.
Pro Tip: Don't actually try any of these.
How to ACTUALLY Deal with Deferment
Here's the honest truth: unless you're expecting or have some exceptional circumstances (documented medical issues, for instance), deferring the Boston Marathon is unlikely. However, there are still some options:
- Sell your entry to a charity runner. There are organizations that connect runners with charity bibs. This way, your spot goes to a good cause, and you might even get a tax deduction.
- Focus on qualifying again. The Boston Marathon has qualifying times, so you can always train up and try again next year. Consider this a chance to crush your qualifying time and show up even stronger!
- Run another marathon! There are fantastic marathons all over the world. Maybe this year's Boston just wasn't meant to be, but another amazing race awaits!
Deferral FAQs for the Forgetful Runner
- How to find out if I qualify for a pregnancy deferral? Check out the B.A.A.'s website for their official pregnancy and postpartum deferral policy.
- What happens if I miss the deferral deadline? Unfortunately, you're most likely out of luck.
- Can I sell my entry to a friend? Nope, entries are non-transferable.
- Is there a way to get a refund? Again, entries are non-refundable (unless you purchased registration insurance, which might offer some protection).
- Should I just run the race anyway, even if I'm not prepared? While admirable, this might not be the best idea. It's a tough race, and you risk injuring yourself. Listen to your body and train up for next year!
Remember, even if you can't defer the Boston Marathon this year, there's always next year. And hey, maybe that surprise encounter with a rogue banana peel will turn into a hilarious story you can tell your fellow runners someday.
