The organizers of the London Marathon are considering a ban on iPods, as noted in the Guardian. Also noted in the article is that a controversial ban on iPods has already been implemented here in the US.

Jill Geer, spokeswoman for USA Track & Field, said: "Being able to hear is a fundamental part of running. If there's a water stop and you veer over in someone's blind spot, you're going to at least inconvenience them."

You cannot be serious, I may veer into another runner? This is your major concern? It's not as though you're driving a rally car weighing 3,000 pounds at 80 mph! This is ridiculous. I race hare scrambles on a 250cc motorcycle with a full helmet on my head covering both ears on single track trails with no room for passing. With all this commotion and congestion, I can still hear a guy behind me just revving his bike, let alone when we give each other a verbal "head's up." How about a little personal responsibility and tell people to check over their shoulder before veering over for that drink of water?

Jill Geer added: "Some runners are irate and we understand and respect the thousands who like to listen to music. But we have a fundamental duty to guarantee the safety of participants."

No kidding, they're irate? They are running 26.2 miles for up to 6 hours and you're telling them they can't listen to anything during the run! I'd be ticked, too!

This exemplifies the nanny-state culture our society is nurturing, where no one is responsible for themselves and their actions. Seriously, you are running for 26.2 miles! It is inherently dangerous! Just a few months ago, a world-class marathoner dropped dead in the middle of the race! "Guarantee the safety of participants"? You cannot guarantee any such thing! Obviously, organizers must take certain precautions, but this particular rule is absurd.