Following the Paris Marathon’s ban on single-use water cups, the Boston Athletic Association announced plans to eliminate all porta-potties from the Boston Marathon as part of a new “self-contained waste” initiative.
Race officials clarified that acceptable waste storage solutions include soft flasks, collapsible cups, and hydration packs worn on the back.
The announcement comes just days before the 130th running of the prestigious race, leaving more than 30,000 runners scrambling to determine the most viable method for carrying urine and feces over the 26.2-mile course.
The decision has divided runners, with some concerned about how they will set a personal record while hauling their own waste and others applauding the move as a long-overdue sustainability initiative.
“As much as it pains us to acknowledge other races, we must commend our counterparts in Paris for setting the standard for a more eco-conscious event,” said a Boston Athletic Association spokesperson.
“Not to be outdone, in true Boston fashion we felt compelled to set a much higher benchmark by removing all biological waste from our race. Having porta-potties lining the course with human sewage is frankly unbecoming of an event with Boston’s rich tradition. It’s beneath us.
Unlike Paris, the Boston Marathon is more than just a race. The only things we want lining our course are well-manicured trees and well-mannered crowds cheering at a respectful volume.
Anyone privileged enough to toe the starting line of Boston should not feel the urge to relieve themselves. Our runners would not have made it here if they were not disciplined enough in their diet to avoid such inconveniences altogether.”
At press time, the Boston Athletic Association was preparing to expand the policy to include sweat.
Photo courtesy Margot Murphy, Massachusetts Governor’s Press Office
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