| National Marathon - 2008 |
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More than one marathon courses through Washington D.C. annually. But the National Marathon is unique. The city's mayor, who runs annually, proudly boasts that it is the only marathon to contain all 26.2 miles completely within the limits of the district.
2008 marked the third annual running of the National Marathon, now sponsored by Sun Trust. The secret is quickly spreading - the late winter event is a unique opportunity to experience a richly diverse city. With only a few thousand runners, the 2008 running was still smaller than perhaps any other major city marathon. But the rapid growth indicates a future as bright as Chicago or New York's grand events.
Clearly the best part about this race is the unique point of view. How often are the roads in front of major national monuments closed to allow a handful of pavement pounders the opportunity to run freely through one of the most well-known cities in the world? The run begins at the RFK Stadium and courses directly towards the National Mall. The Supreme Court Building, the U.S. Capital Building, countless Smithsonian Museums, and dozens of other structural marvels sit in quiet majesty. The usually bustling steets are quiet. The city seems almost deserted. Runners experience a quiet meeting with history and the future at the same time.
Beyond the Greco-Roman structures, runners can experience the urban neighborhoods of D.C. Crowds are more sparse than many events, perhaps owing to the newness of the event. But many spectators still sit on stoops and balconies, or peek through drawn shades to watch the runners pass. The high security centers such as the U.S. Capital are starkly contrasted 10 miles later by signs such as my favorite, "If You Lived Here, You'd Run Faster!"
Running along the Patomac waterfront is serene, with grass and parks that seem impossibly peaceful for such a large city. It's the kind of place you want for your daily training runs.
Few cities experience traffic density like they do in Washington D.C. Race organizers were fully prepared, with marked police vehicles and uniformed officers at nearly every intersection. There were so many officers, in fact, that there was almost the feeling of being escorted through the city by a police motorcade.
The pre-race expo was less interesting than a shoe-store tent sale. And the post-race food and drinks were limited. But on-course hydration stations were plentiful, with more than enough water, gatorade, and several Red Bull stops. Gels were also available at several points along the course.
The Sun Trust National Marathon is a small secret that is quickly growing to become a huge success. Get in while you can still stroll the National Mall with plenty of elbow room. ____ For more information or to register go to              |
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