Analysis of the self-presentation of marathon 'show-offs'

In recent years, marathon events in China have experienced explosive growth, but numerous issues have also arisen during the organization of these events. The term "marathon show-offs," borrowed from internet slang, is used by the author to describe participants who, driven by a mentality of blind conformity and self-aggrandizement, engage in marathon races to showcase themselves in a "unique" manner ("appearance" and "behavior") on the marathon course. Employing documentary research and logical analysis methods from the perspective of Goffman's "Dramaturgy Theory," the author attempts to interpret the problems emerging in the nationwide "marathon craze" from the viewpoint of participants who are "showing off" their marathon participation. The conclusion reached is that many characteristics of the marathon course align with the display platform of "show-offs"; during the competition, the excessive flaunting and self-presentation by "show-offs" neglect the essence of marathon racing. It is worth reflecting that a significant number of marathon participants with a "show-off" mentality have, to a certain extent, contributed to many of the problems encountered in the process of marathon competitions.