'And if you are not familiar with Denver's landscape, the course is essentially flat with little to no elevation change.'
From the Denver marathon website.
I found the statement to be misleading. The course was staggered with various hills. I mentally noted several rolling climbs at miles, 9, 10, 13, 16. However, I enjoyed the view of the city. The race was well organized from all aspects.
Oct 19th, 2008
the availability of the Sheraton is fantastic for the Denver Marathon. The hotel is less than 5 minute walk from the start/finish line. In fact I was able to see the start-line from my room in the tower. The hotel itself was kind of disappointing. It is in desperate need of a renovation. The grab-to-go breakfast was pathetic... don't bother. Just go across the street to Starbucks or Peet's coffee.
As I mentioned, b/c of the proximity to the hotel, I did not leave the hotel until about 6:50. The weather was fantastic. High 40s and basically no winds. Civic Center Park was buzzing with excitement... the starting area was full of runner, supporters, news crew etc.
The race started exactly on time at 7:00AM. The first three miles circles the Pepsi center and Coors Field. There are many blocks of revitalized brick buildings that looked to be once industrial but now storefronts and residential flats. I did miss the mile 2 marker but caught the mile 3 marker right in front of Coors field.
Miles 4-6. I catch the glimpse of elite runners routing back from across the street. That is always depressing. Man, they are all lean and fast.
Miles 6-9. There are plenty of water stations. We run through City Park. This is a huge park. I am thankful for the large tree/bushes. Hey, I am not the only one. Coming out of 9, I made the first mental note of hills... Hey, didn't they advertise this to be a "fast and flat" course?
Around Mile 11, I take off my headphones when I see the half marathon split. I want to make sure I do not go the wrong way (like I did in Salt Lake). But the organizers did a good job. Only one split and it was well posted.
Mile 13, we split from the half marathoners. I like it. The streets open up for everyone. We climb from 13-14 while watching running circle back across the street on a down hill. This sucked.
Mile 16. More hills. Now I am getting kind of pissed. I note that I am off my PR pace. While I did not set out to break my PR, I am certain that this race cannot be labeled "flat and fast."
Forward to 17-22. I am holding up very well. Better than my previous race in New Mexico. We've just circled in and out of yet another park (Washington). This park was full of spectators and non-marathon runners. Past mile 19 was the final relay station. It isn't nice to have people gun pass you at mile 20 with fresh legs.
Mile 22-25. There are many many water stations between these miles and a couple of Cliff Shot stations. Probably too many in my opinion but nevertheless, I think more is better than not enough. A lot less turns in between these miles and all street running. It gets warm enough to take off my long sleeve shirt. I also notice many spectators. It was a surprise to see how many people were cheering. It always helps to hear encouragement and get high fives from the crowd. Thank you Denver.
Mile 25-26. I catch my final wind. I fight off a few runners who attempted to pass me. Its just the mental game I use to keep going. But I know I am close to the finish line. I know I am off PR pace but I am glad nevertheless.
Mile 26 marker. One more left turn and I know the finish line is in sight. Back to where I started 4 + hours ago. I feel great. What is next? read more