marathon memes

This just in - the film The Spirit of the Marathon will be making it's Minnesota debut at the Riverview Theater in Minneapolis on October 4th at 3:00 PM.

In other news of the 26.2, writer Wade Bergner (he's from Wisconsin, but we won't hold that against him) submitted the following pre-race article:

This week serves up round number two of Marathon Paradise. Grandma’s Marathon starts our spring with a bang and Twin Cities Marathon blesses us with one more round. TCM Fever is in the air and don’t we know it. Both races have earned the reputation as world class events. These events provide us with a tremendous amount of motivation and excitement. With this being said, big time races may cause us to put excess stress on ourselves as we zone in on a peak performance. Below are some thoughts to lighten your load so you can enjoy your marathon experience.

As runners we typically focus on our task at hand. We love the thrill and adrenalin that setting a goal and seeing it through provides us. Allowing our bodies to stretch into un chartered territory, is a very personal experience. We all must remind our selves how incredibly fortunate we are to encounter experiences like these. Some people physically are not allowed this opportunity.

This weekend I handed myself a bit of humble pie, as I experienced a disappointing race. As we focus we often loose the fun factor. With the mind and body locked in on what needs to be done, often we loose touch of the big picture. After reflecting I realized that just a few months back my goal was to be healthy and enjoy running. How quickly one forgets as we forge ahead to bigger and better achievements. Regardless if you have spent time on the sidelines or not, please remember that if an injury takes you out do not fright. You are being called to a greater challenge. Listen for it and respond to it. Like the song says, if you love something set it free. Above all else keep your active lifestyle in tact. Collectively we as runners positively influence our families, friends, and general public with our lifestyle. Running has so much to offer the greater good. Feel good about passing it on.

On your way to Sunday’s starting line, be sure to leave any stress in your drop bag with your sweats. There is simply no room for it on the course. Allow yourself to become one with the race. Visualize yourself watching down on the event as it unfolds. Let it sink in that you are part of something special that is much more powerful than an individual goal. Collectively we are exposing the masses to a wonderful activity that can improve lives. I truly believe by keeping these things in mind you will allow yourself to experience marathon paradise.