It was small, flat, scenic, and we got to run on the very grounds that Olympic runners and other elite, collegiate and non-elite athletes have run on. Each mile on this marathon was dedicated to one of 26 Eugene legends including Nike co founders Bill Bowerman and Phil knight, Steve Prefontaine, and other running greats. It is also one of the top ten greenest marathons in the US. After all, it is Oregon, and it doesn't get greener than that, believe me. http://www.eugenemarathon.com/runner-resources/26-eugene-legends/
The first half of the race was great, on pace, focused, in the zone, felt I could make my first goal. We started with the half marathoners and ran with them the first 10 miles, then split off, only to reunite with them at mile 13 (11 for them). We ran together until 15.5, then split again. Due to the poorly marked course (no signs!!!) and me having no clue where I was, I was led by the volunteers into the half marathon route, it took a quarter mile for me to realize this and then had to turn around to get back on track. All in all, it set me back 10 minutes, yes 10 minutes, and I ran an additional half mile.
I finished, didn't quit after being discouraged, and I am happy about that. I now know to study each course closely and be aware of ALL twists in the course.
Eugene Marathon finisher medal
My friend Andrea and I gearing up for the road ahead of us
Willamette River
Running and enjoying myself. Notice we are all running on the same foot? Hilarious!
Mile 16, still wet, but the weather soon clears up and it gets sunny and HOT!
Nike store window. This window literally stopped traffic!Michael, the greatest husband in the world, captured this video of me crossing the finish line. The commentary of the spectators cracks me up!
A plus for this race, my name was printed on my bib, therefore, people were cheering for me along the entire course. It was great!
