Sourse: runnersworld.com
Matthew Choi, a running influencer from Austin, Texas, who finished the New York City Marathon on November 3 in 2:57:15, has been disqualified from the event after he ran much of the course with two people alongside him riding on electric bicycles and filming his race.
@mattchoi_6 via Instagram
New York Road Runners, which organizes the marathon and dozens of other large races in the city, issued a statement on November 4 that read, in part, “After a review and due to violations of World Athletics rules, and New York Road Runners’ Code of Conduct and Rules of Competition, NYRR has disqualified Matt Choi from the 2024 TCS New York City Marathon and removed him from the results. He has been banned from any future NYRR races.”
Choi, 29, “ran with the assistance of two unauthorized people riding the course on electric bicycles, obstructing runners,” the statement said.
Understanding the Challenges of Creating Content During Events
We completely understand the effort and coordination it takes to create engaging content during activities like running. Capturing high-quality footage while keeping up with a runner’s pace requires not only a skilled cameraman but also an ability to record smoothly. While using a bike might seem like a sensible option, it’s essential to remember that even the most beloved content creators must ensure they’re not disrupting others’ experience—especially in events like marathons, which demand months of preparation, financial investment, and dedication from each participant.
In these races, runners pour in resources not just for travel and gear, but also for the sheer commitment it takes to make it to the starting line. This isn’t the first time we’ve heard about challenges related to filming mid-event. Sorry, Matt, but maybe it’s time to go back to holding a monopod like the rest of us.