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Susan Hurrey Competes in a Truly International Marathon
On October 24, 2004 Susan Hurrey competed in the Casino Niagara International
Marathon which starts in Buffalo, New York and finishes on the Canadian
side of Niagara Falls. It is the only marathon in the world that begins in
one country
and finishes in another. Susan filed the following field report:
The
race started at 10:00 a.m. with temperatures in the low 50’s. Fortunately
there was no wind until I crossed over the Peace Bridge and even then the wind
didn't stick around - what a relief. Apparently in prior years wind was an
issue. Everything was going well for me up to about mile 12. I was running
at a comfortable
pace, no issues whatsoever, and planning to slowly increase my pace. Then the
leg cramps came. What a disaster. At mile 13 I was totally cramped up and even
considered stopping, but I knew I could not face my fellow Wanderers if I did
that (especially Rock Steady). I continued on.
Thankfully Petra met me at mile
19 and ran with me all the way to the end. Petra is a tough coach. I had
to walk many times and by mile 24 Petra declared "You will not walk anymore." She
also was threatening me with a stick! Believe me, this is great motivation
to not slow down.
Although this was not my best marathon, it really is
a good qualifying
course. The only significant incline is across the Peace Bridge and even
that isn't too bad. The best part is the finish line. You can hear the Falls
before
you get to the finish. Since it's such a small marathon (876 runners) they
call out every runner's name and city as they cross the finish line.
My official time:
4:17:14.
Like I said, not my best time, but believe me, I was just happy I made
it to the finish line.
Susan shortly before the start
The official
start of the Casino Niagara International Marathon
Susan as
she passed another runner midway through the race.
Susan trying to stay warm after the race.
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