Route 66 Half Marathon
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Sunday, November 24, 2013

I race walked the Route 66 Half Marathon in Tulsa, Oklahoma on Sunday, November 24, 2013. It was very cold as the start temperature was 24 degrees and it remained there for the entire race with 5 to 10 mph winds and cloudy skies. I really appreciate the volunteers as they enthusiastically did their duties despite the bitter cold. The course was a point to point course on roadways that were completely closed to traffic and had police officers and volunteers to control all the intersections which were numerous. The first 8 miles were somewhat hilly and the last 5 miles were relatively flat. None of the hills were very challenging or long. Water/Gatorade stations were located every 2 miles and had plenty of enthusiastic volunteers. There was some ice throughout the course and volunteers warned the participants as they approached the icy areas. Spilled water at aid stations also froze because of the temperature. As a result participants had to be especially careful. The event was completely sold out with approximately 14000 entries in the half marathon, the marathon, the marathon relay. The event treated the Marathon Maniacs, Half fanatics, and 50 Staters as VIPs. We were given our own fenced areas for prerace and post-race activities with our own tents, food, portapotties and gear check. There were also special finisher’s medals for each of the groups. There was a very large amount of entries from these 3 groups. The whole event was extremely well organized and one of the best events I had even done. I do not blame the event for the cold weather. My wife, Gerda, reached an impressive accomplishment when see completed the Route 66 Half Marathon as half marathon 205. Gerda has now completed a half marathon in all 50 states, TWICE!! I am very proud of her.