NYC Marathon bans running influencer over camera crew

A social media influencer from Texas faced disqualification from the prestigious New York City Marathon and was subsequently banned from future competitions after violating the race’s code of conduct. Matthew Choi, a 29-year-old former football player, ran the marathon with a camera crew on e-bikes in tow, a move that was deemed as obstructing other runners and violating competition rules.

New York Road Runners, the organizers of the race, stated that Choi’s actions not only breached their code of conduct but also went against the regulations set by World Athletics, the international governing body for running. Choi, who finished the 26.2-mile course with a time of 2:57:15, faced backlash on social media for his disruptive behavior.

The influencer, who boasts over 400,000 followers on Instagram, posted several videos of himself running the marathon with the camera crew, drawing criticism from fellow runners and fans. Choi acknowledged his mistake and apologized for the inconvenience caused to other competitors, some of whom were impeded from reaching their personal best times or accessing water stations during the race.

In a video posted on his Instagram account, Choi admitted to being selfish and making the race about himself instead of the community. He expressed regret for his actions and accepted full responsibility for the repercussions. Despite having the option to appeal the disqualification, Choi stated that he would accept the consequences of his actions.

This incident was not the first time Choi had faced criticism for using e-bike film crews during major competitions. He assured his followers that such behavior would not be repeated in the future, emphasizing that his word is his bond. The influencer’s apology and acceptance of accountability resonated with many, who appreciated his willingness to own up to his mistake and learn from it.

The New York City Marathon, which saw over 55,000 participants completing the race through all five boroughs of the city, remains a testament to the spirit of community and camaraderie among runners. Choi’s disqualification serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting the rules and integrity of competitive sports, and the significance of putting the well-being of fellow athletes above personal gain.