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May 10, 2024

Bataan Memorial Death March Runner Comments

Back to Bataan Memorial Death March Information & Reviews

Course 4.7

Organization 4.7

Spectators 4.2

Number of comments: 115 [displaying comments 81 to 91]

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M. R. from Hobbs, New Mexico (12/13/2006) "A very rewarding experience, indeed" (about: 2002) 1 previous marathon \| 1 Bataan Memorial Death March COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 At the time I ran in the race I was a firefighter in Hobbs, New Mexico. A previous fire chief (Vernon "Mac" Macombs) was in the original Bataan Death March and we ran in his honor. It was a very rewarding experience. I was especially touched by the number of survivors that were present and their reaction to the participants. I only wish that Chief Macombs was still alive to see us. It will remain one of the highlights of accomplishment in my life. Thanks!!
Jericha Amacker from Brandon, Florida (6/18/2006) "I think it was tough but I enjoyed it." (about: 2004) 1 previous marathon \| 1 Bataan Memorial Death March COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 I didn't really know what to expect. But once I got into a pace that fit me, I keep going. I really liked it and I plan on doing it again. Hopefully in 2007. Know your body. And stay in the pace that fits your body.
J. J. from Las Cruces, NM (4/27/2006) "Emotional, pulls at your heart strings" (about: 2006) 4-5 previous marathons \| 4-5 Bataan Memorial Death Marchs COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 My husband and I enjoy seeing the veterans and really like the whole event!
B. K. from Ontario, Canada (4/13/2006) "Great and tough marathon" (about: 2006) 11-50 previous marathons \| 2 Bataan Memorial Death Marchs COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 This was my second Bataan Marathon. Two years ago I promised myself to come back as often as possible. This year I improved my previous time by 5 minutes. I had hoped that the sand pit would be paved and I was wrong. Never mind, I am sure I will be back more than once. Bataan is one of very few marathons that are rated with "three fives" almost unanimously. This event deserves even more than 3 x 5. There were so many words written about the unique atmosphere and spirit of the Bataan Death March that it is difficult to add anything more. The long hours between the opening and closing ceremonies will always remain in my memory as my tribute to those who devoted so much for our present and future. I was honored to shake hands and say "thank you" to the veterans. I want to thank the organizers for the excellent accommodations in the Bell Gym. One suggestion for future events: please arrange bag drop-off and pick-up facility at the start/finish line; this is essential for marathon runners.
Susan Stewart from Gainesvillle, Florida (4/3/2006) "An extraordinary event with a lot of meaning" (about: 2006) 4-5 previous marathons \| 1 Bataan Memorial Death March COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 My friend Deb and I have walked several marathons but I was pleased and amazed at the support, the interest and the camaraderie experienced with this marathon. It was a new experience to learn how to rely on others for support and strength. The survivors were stupendous in their interest and support, it added a poignancy to the whole affair. The support for the walkers was the best we have ever experienced especially at the end of the race when most races have wound down around the runners. The race was grueling but spectactular. The sand pit felt like it was pulling at you, sucking you down. But even as you felt like giving up, there was the thought that started the race, remembering the POW's forced march, where they did not have a choice to walk across the Philippines. We made friends, with Audry from the Air Force, the fellow in his USA outfit who was doing marathons in memory of 9-11, and especially young William, who stayed with us the whole time, who already knew at age 21 that we all needed to do this together. The groups of military heavy teams were also inspiring and very open to the civilians among them.
T. B. from Reno/Sparks, Nevada (3/30/2006) "3 generations say it was beyond memorable" (about: 2006) 2 previous marathons \| 1 Bataan Memorial Death March COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 Having just done the '05 Honolulu Marathon in Dec., I was a bit concerned about the recovery/training time between the events. I did fine in the Civilian Heavy Div. by following all the tips provided on the web site. My dad, a Bataan vet., attended for the first time. He was so honored to shake hands with half the participants at the start. He still can't believe there'd be that many people paying tribute to the "Bataan Boys" in this way. My husband and 2 sons were also impressed with the entire event. We thank EVERYONE who made this such a memorable event for us all!
V. N. from Rio Rancho, New Mexico (3/30/2006) "Super support, tough course, super spectators" (about: 2006) 6-10 previous marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 It was an honor to be able to run this marathon for the Bataan survivors, and meet the few remaining men who went through so much and served with honor. The course is tough, train hard for this run. The march is not for the weak or untrained. The "Sandpit" is rightfully named. This march/run is nothing compared to the march they endured. The support along the course was the best I ve ever seen. The GI's who marched where fantastic. I m a retired AF Master Sergeant; once again it was an honor to run the course.
S. J. from Albuquerque, NM, USA (3/29/2006) "Not just a marathon, but a tribute to real heroes!" (about: 2006) 6-10 previous marathons \| 3 Bataan Memorial Death Marchs COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 As someone who has run several marathons and is the relative of two Death March survivors, the Bataan Memorial March is a highlight of the year for me. The camaraderie shared between all the participants, volunteers, spectators and veterans truly honors the spirit of the event. The course is just as advertised, a mix of asphault, dirt, rock and sand, with a "little" hill thrown in for good measure! Do your hill and weight training; I didn't, and I could really tell. The aid stations were well manned, courteous and very helpful. I stopped at one to talk to family members and mentioned to one of them that my feet were sore. A medical volunteer overheard our conversation and came over to check on me. Thanks for the attention! For me the highlight of the March was just after it finished. Several veterans were greeting finishers, and I met two who knew my grandfather and great uncle. It was a moment both humbling and uplifting, and erased away any pain I felt at that time. The mutual respect shown between the original marchers and the memorial marchers was quite moving. It was a hard race, but nothing compared to what the honorees endured. Highly recommended!
D. I. from Gainesville, FL (3/29/2006) "Truly most memorable marathon of my life!" (about: 2006) 6-10 previous marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 What an experience! Not to be missed, but not for the faint of heart! The sand and wind never let up! The hills were also challenging to say the least! BUT, the scenery was incredible, and support non-stop! It was VERY WELL ORGANIZED and SUPPORTED! I was encouraged by all, both military and civilian. The base personnel were the greatest! And having an ex-POW shake my hand and thank me just brought me to tears! I can't say enough wonderful things about this physically and emotionally challenging marathon. DON'T MISS IT!
Ron Horton from Charlotte, NC (3/29/2006) "A Phenomenal Day" (about: 2006) 50+ previous marathons COURSE: 5 ORGANIZATION: 5 FANS: 5 This was my 62nd marathon. It was the hardest one I've ever done, because I picked the Civilian Heavy Division. But the pain was a minor inconvenience compared to the experience and privilege of participating in this event. I don't recall ever starting a marathon with tears in my eyes - the roll call of the departed, the presentation of colors, the absolute silence and respect from spectators during the national anthem, the incredible honor of gently shaking the hand of men who survived those dark days of 1942 - all of this at the start set the tone for a patriotic day. From the wild celebration as the Blackhawk passed overhead flying Old Glory to the discouragement of seeing yet another hill, the emotions ran up and down all day. But the one constant was the feeling that we were all in our own way making a difference, honoring those who served. AND those who continue to serve, for you are surrounded by our military men and women throughout the course, especially if you are in the back of the pack (where I reside!). This one made a lifetime of memories.

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