I don't think anyone is really evaluating your "parenting" past what you wrote. But, summing it up in one sentence, you basically said "I wasn't going to tell my kid they couldn't cross with me, because I put them through 'kid hell' during race week." (At least that's how it read to me).

I wish adults would just act respectful to eachother. Simply checking behind one's self to make sure he and his family aren't interferring with other racers could/would eliminate the entire controversy, and yet still allow for finish photos.

What has taken the situation to the next level is the attitude that one's "family finish" is the FOCUS of the race ... and well, the addition of props and pets.

If my son were to run on the course (as he did in Lake Geneva) I would not spank him or walk him of the course or sit him down on the curb. He's only imitating the happy, family, behavior he has observed all day long. I would pull him aside, make sure no one was behiind us, and then try to beat his little butt to the finish line (with a two-step lead before I yell "go", of course).

Most situations of conduct and behavior are so easy to remedy with just a little consideration and respect. It is unfortunate that less and less of the "family finishers" are aware (or care) about the effect they have on others.

One has to wonder why triathlon has so many rules that they seeming do not want o or cannot enforce. That's crazy.

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-- Every morning brings opportunity;
Each evening offers judgement. --