Fred's Marathon

There were 4 water stops on the 3 mile loop plus my car was parked at the finish line area. I had a cooler fulled with gatorade, beer, water etc. Stopped at the car every time around to get sunblock, gummy worms, or ice cold drinks. THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT, BABY. There were few spectators but I like it that way. The volunteers were great. The next day, while thousands were dragging thier butts up Heartbreak Hill, I was in a pub drinking beer and eating hot wings. I already had my medal!

Although some might argue that eight loops to complete a marathon is boring, it is actually an interesting approach to 26.2. Rather than counting the miles one-by-one, you click off the loops. Mentally it is kind of refreshing. Not to mention you know exactly what to expect from mile to mile after the first three - no real hidden surprises. The CMS Running Club does a great job of ensuring that runners needs are met. Not a lot of 'hoopla', but if the personal accomplishment of 26.2 is what you're after, Fred's does a nice job. No lines for a post-race massage is a nice touch too.

As a spoof, the marathon was fine... i believe the half and full marathon prices were $1 difference. T-shirt AND medals given at registration (i guess to hold down on volunteers?) Course is a certified 5-k loop (done 8 times) and an initial mile loop. This did prepare me mentally for a 50k (run on a 4-mile loop.) The positive thing is spectators would 'adopt' runners, cheering for them... afterall after 2 times around, they could look forward to seeing you 6 more times.