Break Out Your Costumes; The Boise Marathon Is On!

"People ask why I run. I say 'If you have to ask, you will never understand.'" If you ran cross country in high school, you no doubt probably have at least one race t-shirt with that quote on it.

It's true though. Whether you're lacing up for your first 5K or trying to qualify for the Boston marathon, explaining why running is so important to you is complex. For me, the answer has chained so many times. In high school, I ran until I couldn't walk chasing PRs and points for my team. When I moved to Boise, I ran because I didn't know anyone here yet and was bored. Now? I run to stay connected to the friendships the Treasure Valley running community has blessed me with.

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No matter how I answer the question, racing has been a big part of my identity for decades and not having the opportunity to do that since January has been really, really difficult. That's why I'm thrilled that the Boise Marathon is moving forward with their 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and Marathon races in person on Sunday, October 25!

As part of their COVID-19 safety plan, they are requesting that athletes wear masks in the starting corral and in the finish line area, as these will be busier than most places on the course. They're also encouraged to pull those back up when approaching other athletes.

Aid stations will still be provided, but aid station volunteers will simply lay out cups of Gatorade and water rather than make contact with participants by handing them the cup. Fuel will be distributed in a similar way. All aid station volunteers, race staff and vendors will be required to wear gloves and masks during the event.

The finish line festival has been removed from the 2020 race. Athletes will be able to pick up their swag and medals near the finish line.

The Boise Marathon's safety plan is very similar to the ones that have been successful in Colorado and Ohio where some of my friends have gotten to race in person this year. As a runner, I really appreciate the amount of thought that the Boise Marathon team has put into their planning and for giving the running community something to be excited about!

Plus...the race is costumed themed which makes it that much more fun! I'm keeping fingers crossed that my running friendly Captain Marvel costume gets her in time for me to rock it during the 10K!