Marathon-to-Marathon

It was a warm and windy send off for the 22nd and Final Marathon from Storm Lake to Marathon Iowa. It was a record turnout with runners from over 35 states and an estimated over 30 Marathon Maniacs for a festive atmosphere. The relatively flat road course with long straights was well marshalled by race officials and medical staff in vehicles. The few spectators which were the aid station volunteers were very supportive of the runners. There was plenty of ice during the second half when temperatures approached 90 degrees with winds at 20-40 mph. It was mostly a tail wind all the way to Marathon. It sounds like the race director, Al Pierce, did a masterful job over the 22 years in this small iconic race in rural Iowa. Thanks for a memorable day which served as my 29th state in my quest for 50 states.

I ran this to qualify for Marathon Maniacs, and working for my 50 States. Small race. The race started in Storm Lake IA, and runs to Marathon. Storm Lake is a great town. Amazing food, great people, lots of community support for the race. The course is all in the countryside. If you like running out in the county, this is perfect. The only down side, is that due to the fact you are running out in the country there are very few people along the way. It was hot, and humid this year, and the temp was in the 90's pretty quick after the start. The race officials were driving along the race with a water jug, making sure everyone had what they needed between the scheduled water stops.

This was my first full marathon. Temperatures were way above normal with the temp at start time 76 and four hours later 88-90. Race staff and volunteers did a wonderful job in keeping runners hydrated and safe with the extreme temperatures. Having showers available at the finish was a big plus. The lunch that was provided for participants was also much appreciated. I stayed at the Storm Lake Super 8 hotel and walked to the starting line, the hotel also started the breakfast service at 4am so runners could be ready for the 6am start. The course was extremely flat. Spectators were spread out due to the fact you are running in rural Iowa.