[MNDude]

I never understood the appeal of a marathon unless if you were one of the best runners aiming to be in first place. But work so hard just to come in at 80th place?

[NorthMountain]

I never understood the appeal of a marathon

Clearly.

But work so hard just to come in at 80th place?

I finished.

And even if I had been dead last ...

I FINISHED.

Which you did not.

Simply finishing is an accomplishment not to be sneezed at.

[SZonian]

I’m not a racer, but I like to ride in races. My only goal is to not come in last in my category.

I look at it as an event to be attended and participate in...I think many are like-minded. Meet lots of people, have fun, etc.

[rktman]

80th hell. What about 11,000th? EVERYBODY gets a trophy.

[Rebelbase]

They get a free tee-shirt.