Dick Beardsley Half Marathon
Detroit Lakes, Minnesota
Saturday, September 12, 2015

When I completed the Dick Beardsley Half Marathon in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota on Saturday, September 12, 2015, I completed my 300th Marathon (135) and Half Marathon (165). It was a perfect day for the event as the temperature varied from 46 to 62 degrees with mostly sunny skies and little wind. The course went around lake on the roadways which for the most part had a dedicated participant lane that was completely closed to traffic. Only a few police officers were needed at a few places along the course. Volunteers were stationed at each turn; however, the course was so well marked and easy to follow that these volunteers had little to do besides cheer for the participants. Water/Powerade stations were located approximately every two miles and were manned by plenty of enthusiastic, efficient volunteers. Because the lake is a resort area, there were quite a few cheering spectators throughout the course. Some out the spectators had recorded music playing for the enjoyment of the participants. There were 481 finishers in the half marathon which has been held for 20 years. The inaugural marathon for the event was held this year. There is also a 5K and 10K contested. Dick Beardsley, the famous runner for whom the event is named; was at the event even though he did not participate. The prerace pasta dinner featured Dick Beardsley and the two original race directors whom gave insight into how the event was started 20 years ago and carried Dick Beardsley’s name. Dick also talked about his career, especially his famous Boston Marathon race where he set the American Marathon Record and was beaten by Alberto Salazar by 3 seconds. Dick also entertained by playing a guitar and singing 4 original songs and talking about his life as a fishing guide in the Detroit Lakes area. I had a very nice time participating in the event which was very well organized and fun to do.