The Funniest Supporter Signs Spotted at Running Races
© STADIONThey’re everywhere. On pavements, at roundabouts, along endless straights and even on the sodden grass at the roadside. No, we’re not talking about the runners. We mean the people shouting, clapping until their palms turn red, shaking bells and saucepans, and above all holding up signs that are absurd, inspired and brilliantly offbeat. Because while every marathon is a physical challenge for some, it’s also a full-blown comedy festival for others. Whatever the distance, the weather or the number of miles on the clock, supporters are there, faithfully cheering from the sidelines. And alongside all the noise, they sometimes come out with messages that are both wonderfully kind and genuinely funny. Little flashes of roadside creativity that make runners smile, look up… and sometimes even forget the pain.
✓ Here’s a compilation of the best messages we’ve read and spotted
“Sweat is sexy”
A sign sponsored by your plus-one.
Single? Apparently, sweat is attractive. Maybe you’ll meet the love of your life at a race… You never know.
“Remember, it seemed like a good idea at the time”
Actually, it’s not just a good idea at the start. Exercise is always a good idea.
➜ 5 tips for a successful marathon training plan
“Negative Spritz guaranteed”
Negative split or negative Spritz? Both are good, to be fair.
“Run like the bar’s about to close!”
Run hard to reach the finish and raise a glass to achieving that new goal. Sounds like a solid plan.
© STADION“Heatwave tip: Drink the competition under the table”
Only in extreme heat, of course. Or not.
“Don’t go faster than flat out”
The real advice from a friend who has your best interests at heart.
“You’re managing this better than the government”
No comment. None needed.
“I trained all week to hold this sign”
It’s not heavy, but it is pretty awkward…
“Smile! Remember, you paid for this”
The phrase “it doesn’t come cheap” suddenly makes perfect sense.
“Want me to call an UBER?”
No. Obviously NOT…
“Take it easy, you’re not going to win anyway”
That said, put the ego aside and keep moving…
“A Big Mac meal and you’ll be back in business”
The perfect sign to place right next to the aid station, obviously.
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© STADION“Only 39 km to go!”
Come on, just… not quite all of it, actually.
It’s not true, but it makes us laugh. You, not so much.
“If you’re not throwing up, you can still speed up!”
Inspired by a very, very motivated coach.
“Worse than a Sunday at your mother-in-law’s? Maybe not
A way of putting things into perspective, presumably…
“You’re doing this for the T-shirt. We all know it
And for the medal, especially if it shines.
“Running: therapy that costs more than a therapist
Still, it looks cooler on Instagram.
“The wall at 30 km? Jump over it. Or cry, that’s fine too
All emotions are valid.
“That’s not sweat, it’s your body crying
Though it might be crying tears of pride. Maybe.
“You trained for four months to suffer for four hours. Well done!”
Pain-to-pleasure ratio: 1 to 0. But you signed up for this.
“The aid station is still a long way off… just like your target time
Might as well tell it like it is.
“You’re not last! There’s always the guy in the inflatable unicorn behind you
True story, or something close to it…
“Running a marathon is like a toxic relationship: you love it at first, then you cry at the end
But you go back for more, again and again…
Hopefully, this article will inspire the supporters lining the course at upcoming races. Thank you for the atmosphere, the smiles and the positive energy you bring. You’re the heroes of the road too.