I can see killing the bear that did the attack. Unfortunately the other three were in the wrong place at the wrong time. At least they weren't females with cubs, I just found out if a female bear gets shot they put the cubs down too. Next time he should stay on trail, and pack bear spray and a gun. Bumped into a lot of bears through my many years of hiking and one thing is for sure, most are just as afraid of you as you are of them. That is why they say make lots of noise when traveling in bear country, most will skedaddle before you get to close. A few just back away and get out slowly, do not run. which bring me to my last point, why would you plan a race in bear country? Running make you fair game. Sorry about the kid but the people who planned a  race in bear country are more to blame. The bears are just doing what bears do, and prey runs.