I attempted the Speedo run
As a woman, I have faced many challenges; however, the speedo run is one challenge I never dreamed I would have to face. The speedo run is a yearly event where the male swim team runs around the school in their speedos (yes, those tiny, waterproof underwear). It’s a lot of flesh, cologne and a whole lot of horror.
I understand traditions and wanting them to stay the same, but it is not a disgrace to welcome change and growth. So I decided to do the run anyway (not just for the blog) but for women who are told “no” on the daily. Sadly, I don’t think I did a very good job. As brave as I can be, when I saw those near-naked men screaming down the hallway, I just froze. I was so intimidated and felt so alone in that moment.
Regardless of my fear, I really tried to run but evidently got stuck in the hallway as kids rushed to get away from both the school and the uncomfortable sight. I gave up eventually and immediately regretted my weakness. I should have run more. In the end, I am looking forward to new traditions. Next year, I want a group of strong women running right next to those boys.
A fellow female journalist • Jan 19, 2018 at 2:23 pm
Caitlin,
I love that you support feminism and try to bring it into your journalism. However, this video doesn’t help women gain equality. Rather, it disrespects this group of men and that’s not what feminism is about at all. Yes, women face many challenges in day-to-day life. The speedo run does not need to be one of them. Focus your journalism skills and time as a young woman to cover issues that will benefit both men and women. You could interview subjects about the wage gap, question the sexual education program offered at MTSD, or even research the impact women have had on journalism. There’s an endless amount of topics to be covered by a journalist that don’t disrespect her fellow students. Highlander Publications, please do better.
Tyler Brown • Jan 17, 2018 at 1:24 pm
The speedo run is an event for the boy’s swim team. It’s not about excluding girls. We payed and worked hard to be on the team. Part of being a jugman is participating in the traditions and if you aren’t one you should leave it alone. If girls want to run it so bad then they should join the girl’s swim team and create their own traditions. Please don’t disrupt ours.