Laugh and a Half Marathon
Norfolk, Nebraska
Saturday, June 14, 2014

On Saturday, June 14, 2014 I race walked the Laugh and a Half Marathon in Norfolk, Nebraska. It was a cloudy sky during the race with temperatures from 66 to 72 degrees and gusty strong winds throughout the two lap course on roadways that were not closed to traffic but did offer a dedicated lane for the participants. There was a long 2.25 miles gradual uphill located between miles 1 and 4 followed by a 1 mile gradual downhill. The rest of the lap was relatively flat. Of course everything was repeated on the second lap. Water stations were located from 1 to 1.5 miles apart and had plenty of enthusiastic efficient volunteers. There was the sports drink, Heed, at one of the stations. Turns and intersections were controlled by numerous friendly police officers and volunteers. The traffic cooperated well. The half marathon had about 230 participants. The associated 5K, 10K, and kids run made the number of participants reach near 800. There was a pre-race pasta dinner that was free for the participants and a post-race pancake breakfast that was free to everyone. The event was very well organized and fun. For those who are wondering, the laugh part of the name was to honor comedian Johnny Carson who was a Norfolk local for most of his life. There is an interesting museum partially dedicated to him as well as an auditorium named after him. The Great American Comedy Festival was being held while I was in Norfolk.