I don't think it makes a mockery of the event to walk the marathon if you're injured. Lots of competitors walk part of the IM marathon, even pros. Anyone who has anything beyond a very casual interest in Ironman racing understands why she is walking the marathon. I don't think Chuckie V drinking a beer in the IM made a mockery of the event either. So what if a guy drinks one beer in 8+ hours of racing when he's having a rough day? I was on the course with him that day and never questioned his status as an elite or that he was mocking the race.