The Sore But Grateful Runner's Experience At Missoula’s Marathon

In the wake of the Missoula Marathon, I write to you with aching legs.

I didn't even run the full marathon; I just ran the Half Marathon. 13.1 miles was plenty for me.

Even with the sore legs, I write to you with great admiration and appreciation for everybody involved with putting on the weekend. Everyone from race director Trisha Drobek to the volunteers to the pedestrians cheering us on.

I want to give thanks that are much deserved.

Thank you, Missoula Marathon!

Thank you to the organizers. Trisha Drobek is the one in charge, but everybody involved with organizing the race... THANK YOU.

Thank you to all the volunteers. The groups that man the aid stations by refueling us with Gatorade and water are the real MVPs. You guys save us.

Thank you to all the Missoulians who came out to cheer on the runners. You make a real difference. When I hear the cheers or cowbells encouraging us on, it really does help.

Plus, all the goofy signs you create like "Don't trust that fart," or my personal favorite "FTC."

Thank you to all the police officers who control traffic and keep us safe.

Thank you for the entertainment along the way. The guy playing piano near McClay Bridge, the Celtic Dragon Pipe Band, the guy playing a ukulele towards the end of the race, the groups pouring fireball shots and having a good time, and everybody else.

Thank you to Big Sky Brewing for having that 9:30 am, post-race beer nice and cold waiting for me.