Windermere Marathon set to run Sunday, May 20th, in Spokane
Looking for a spring Marathon? Looking to keep it local? Look no further than the Windermere half or full Marathon, a race along the Centennial Trail and Spokane River that offers some stellar views.
“This is truly a great race for all runners, from the newbie looking for a flat course to the veteran trying to PR,” says race director Ryan Hite.
The Windermere Marathon, produced by Negative Split, has focused on individual runner stories this year on their social media to prep runners for the upcoming races. They plan to cap the Windermere race at a little over 2,000 runners this year, and encourage folks to come out and see new elements of the race as it continues to grow.
“We love our runners and hearing their stories. Look for a very special and motivational mile along the course that will really bring this to a point and highlight this year’s theme,” says Hite.
Also new this year is a finisher’s medal that connects magnetically to the finisher’s medal from the Negative Split Half Marathon, run on April 8th. The two medals line up to create a continuous image (below). At Windermere, finishers can also bank on some great swag. Participants will receive sling bags and a long-sleeved, quarter zip tech shirt with thumb holes in addition to the 4-inch medal.
“We were very excited when Windermere asked us to produce this race. Windermere Marathon has become a staple in the Spokane running scene, and we wanted to see that tradition continue,” says Hite. He says it was a natural fit to combine with the Negative Split series he manages, which offers 5k, 10k, and half marathon distances.
The Windermere Marathon distance will provide 13 aid stations containing gels, chews, sports drinks, water, and Vaseline for chaffing areas, should runners need it. The half marathon distance will include 7 of the same aid stations.
The race will have a small Expo prior to the event at Fleet Feet’s new store in Kendall Yards. In addition to creating an awesome runner experience out on the course, Hite says the Expo will provide retail and participant experience items such as free social media photos, an inspiration wall to write on, and space for motivational sign making.
In addition to a scenic, flat, and fast course that’s certified as a Boston qualifier, you can look forward to an awesome finish line party. The course provides a net negative elevation gain, with the last two miles threading around Mission Park and Gonzaga University. Visit the race website to learn more about the course, registration, and opportunities to volunteers. Like the Windermere Marathon Facebook Page for current race updates and inspirational runner stories. And don’t forget to sign up to run before the April 1st registration price jump.
