> If you are hurting after just 4 miles I would say you may need to sit
> this one out.

I will join those advising you to stay out from this. I came down with ITBS
after my first marathon in 2004. At first it was hurting after 4 miles. I
kept trying to run, and then it was hurting after only 1 mile.

I discovered that I could run if I go fast (sprinting) and then walk, so I
tried to run a half, but could not make it. It was two loops, and had to
walk and turn around and leave after the first loop. That's the only race I
have not completed. So, if you are hurting after 4 miles, how can your run
26? In my case, it was impossible to continue running after the pain had
started.

Finally, I tried the patstrap and it worked for me. It allowed me to
continue running, while recovering from this problem. I dropped the band
after 6 months or so. I have since completed two marathons without problem.
Others have not been so lucky.

George Themelis