After a 9 year break from Marathons Jeannie returned to post a PR of 3:17:47!

Paul Lenz
Columbus Marathon
3:15:09
374/5,443 OA
29/348 in AG
10/19/14
It was a great day for a marathon, and our capital city really knows how to do it well! Perfect race conditions with a temp in the low 40’s at the start reaching mid 50 at the finish, little to know wind, and bright blue skies. A small change on the course this year was a new start and finish area that added a less crowded, more runner and spectator friendly area at North Bank Park. I was glad that the traditional (past 5 yrs now) starting song, Thunderstruck by AC/DC, right before the gun followed by Bruce Springstein, Born to Run plus the fireworks remained unchanged. This really helps you forget about what you are soon to tackle and gets you going off strong! The rest of the course remains unchanged with usual trips through Bexley, German Village, Short North, up through the OSU campus and “The Shoe” between miles 16-17 before climbing gradually to Upper Arlington (20Mi). A greatly appreciated and needed net down hill final 10K back into the city through the Arena District to the finish line completes your day.
If you are looking for your first marathon, a BQ time, or a fun 13.1, put this race on your calendar for next year. I do not think you will be disappointed. Now for some rest time, cross training, and thoughts about next year’s goals and races.