Tacoma Narrows Half Marathon
Tacoma, Washington
August 7, 2010

I race walked the Tacoma Narrows Half Marathon on Saturday, August 7, 2010. The race started in the Tacoma Narrows Airport in a foggy, misty drizzle with a temperature near 60 degrees and a small breeze. The course was somewhat hilly and challenging. Between miles three and five the most difficult uphill part of the course featured a trip across the mile long, newer span of the twin suspension bridge across the Tacoma Narrows. The first span was finished in 1950, replacing the infamous “Galloping Gertie” bridge which collapsed on November 7, 1940. The whole unfortunate event was captured on film, which showed the spectacular collapse of what had been the third longest suspension bridge in the world with the longest single span in the country. It is quite a remarkable film clip to view. The second span, which the race used, was opened in 2007. The foggy, misty drizzle which continued the entire race hid most of the spectacular view from the bridge; however, the view was still quite impressive. Water/PowerAde stations were located every 2 to 2.5 miles and were manned by plenty of enthusiastic volunteers who braved the less than perfect weather. About 8 miles of the course were on a wide paved bike path. Whenever it crossed a street, the Tacoma Police controlled the traffic to ensue the participant’s safety. The race was extremely well organized and fun to do. The race director, Tony Phillippi, is one of the founders of the Marathon Maniacs and Half Fanatics. It was nice to see about 75 Maniacs and Fanatics participate in this event of around 900 runners and walkers and get a chance to talk with many of the club members who I only see once in a while.