I appreciate the discussion. I used to think that running was quite egalitarian. (One doesn't even need shoes!) However, this thread brings new insights.
At least running is more accessible than competitive cycling. I suppose where there's an opportunity for someone to spend some money to gain an edge, they will do so.
The Ironman: Triathlete Executives' Ultimate Status Feat
Also, I used to think that one's success was dependent on one's skills, hard work, etc. Over the years, I've since learned that is not entirely so. These things only get you so far. Sometimes, the best, brightest, nicest person doesn't get the job or promotion, etc. Life isn't always fair. (I'm not complaining. I have a good job and have been fortunate in many ways.) The disadvantaged have lots of barriers, systemic and otherwise. The fact that zip codes can predict life expectancy is an indication of how entrenched these barriers can be.
So the best suggestion for the less well off in society is to usher them into servitude before they can run.
Thanks for introducing me to another point of view. What if the volunteer runner received acknowledgement on the race website, such as on a list of volunteers, similar to the acknowledgement page for the corporate sponsors?
if someone doesn't have the finances for a mercedes should they just be able to go out and take one?
I don't begrudge anyone who drives a Mercedes. As a product, Mercedes are designed to be exclusionary. However, they are not necessarily the fastest, best handling, or safest car. Just as a Rolex isn't necessarily designed to displayed time, but rather wealth.
(As an aside, when replacing my 13yo Toyota, I decided that my main priority was safety. Orlando has been ranked as the most dangerous city in the US for driving! I improved my driving habits and bought a used Volvo, though it was still fairly pricey. Now that I drive a Volvo, I don't necessarily feel that I am more or less deserving of dying in an auto accident, than someone in a 13yo Toyota!)
A marathon is a different product altogether than a car. It does have a different purpose, but I'm not exactly suggesting that they be free. In a society with finite resources, someone pays. As a society, people decide where their tax dollars go: safe streets, food, shelter, schools, etc. I'm guessing that most people would agree that free marathons rank below several other priorities. However, we are free to organize our own BRS runs!