In-Line Skaters

Re “L.A. Marathon Rolls Out a Controversy,” Feb. 3: Lesley Kurz, spokesman for the Boston Marathon, put it so well. In-line skating would not be happening in Boston, they uphold the tradition and spirit of the marathon, and besides, that’s the way their runners like it.

Skaters and cyclists have no place in a well-organized marathon. If marathon president Bill Burke wants them to do a marathon, he should pick another time, even another city. I am a marathon runner and in my opinion this race is not for cyclists or in-line skaters. Burke seems more concerned about the elite runners, rather than the thousands of us who just enjoy getting out there to do our best.

Don’t get me wrong. Being an athlete I applaud the skaters and cyclists; they just don’t belong in this marathon. I wonder, will we see horses participating in the marathon in the future?

LISE WILLIS

Los Angeles

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If the organizers of the L.A. Marathon want to make the event truly Southern Californian, why not introduce commuters to the field? Everyone knows the ultimate Southland challenge is driving 26 miles anywhere in L.A. in under two hours and 15 minutes.

HARRIET OTTAVIANO

Seal Beach