Big Sur International Marathon 2013

One could not fail to notice the extra presence of military,

FBI,

 police and security

  at the intersection of Rio and Cabrillo Highway

and the “Marathon Village” at the Crossroads Sunday.

 It was difficult not to think about Boston as we stood at the finish line of the Big Sur International Marathon. 

 Our hearts and prayers continue to go out to the three spectators

 and MIT police officer that were killed,  the 260 plus who were injured, and all the first responders, runners,and friends and family of the runners who will forever be affected by this senseless tragedy. 

Yet the strength of our human spirit was made clear;

by the crowd as they ecstatically cheered on each runner (or walker) crossing the finished line,

 by the 400 or so runners who were part of the “Boston 2 Big Sur” contingency in their dark-blue bib, some clearly showing emotion as they finished the race for those who were not able to or would not ever be able to -

by the sheer joy of participants who eagerly posed for pictures with their 2013 Big Sur Medal,

  to the general friendly, peaceful and trustful camaraderie of the crowd. (Yes redundant, but so true) 

 

We arrived just as Adam Roach of Pacific Grove, last years winner, crossed this finish line at 2:26:47. A half an hour later at 2:50:02 we watched Nuta Olaru of Boulder, Colorado also last year’s winner, cross first for the women.

A huge thank you to all the volunteers, (military, medical, police, fire, civilian, also the entertainment along the marathon, Taiko Drummers, Michael Martinez on the grand piano,

             

dancers, strawberry ladies, the larger than life mile markers created by John Cerney, and the Big Sur Marathon organization. 

Apparently  the clock is ticking and we have 300+ days to get in shape for next year - I suppose this means we need to start training............PAX

A Tribute to the Human Spirit
which is a Gift from God

***************

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