Little Rock Marathon
Little Rock, Arkansas
Sunday, March 15, 2009

When I began race walking the Little Rock Marathon in Little Rock, Arkansas at 8:00 AM on Sunday, March 15, 2009, the temperature was about 50 degrees (where it remained throughout the race), the wind was calm, and the sky was very cloudy. This was the fourth time that I have done this event and it was excellent as usual. The event advertises that their finisher’s medal is the biggest of any event and it weighed over a pound. Each year there is a theme for the race and this year’s featured a circus. Water/Gatorade stations were located no more than two miles apart and were manned by plenty of enthusiastic volunteers. Police and other volunteers were located at the numerous intersections and completely controlled the traffic. The course has many hills and winds through North Little Rock and Little Rock, letting the participants view most of the local attractions, including the Clinton Library, the Governor’s Mansion, Little Rock Central High School, the Capitol building, and the Arkansas River.
There was a post race party that was held at the Clinton Library and feature BBQ that was delicious. Everyone was allowed to tour the library and view the exhibits related to the Clinton Presidency. It was a very interesting and wonderful event that had a live band for those who wished to listen to music or dance.
My friend, Bart Yasso from Runner’s World, and his wife, Laura, were at the event. Bart was selling his book, My Life on the Run, at the exposition. The book chronicles Bart’s exploits as a runner who Runner’s World sent to participate in and write about some of the most challenging distance races throughout the world. On race day Bart announced at both the starting line and the finishing line. Laura ran the marathon. My wife, Gerda, and I were able to spend much time at the post race party socializing with them.
I had a wonderful weekend.