Nothing Like a Marathon to Jump Start Your Day

WALKING ALONG THE Santa Monica Pier this past weekend, it had occurred to me that I live too close to this area to not appreciate it as much as I should. I almost take for granted the fifteen-minute drive down Pacific Coast Highway. The warm feel of the sun mixed with the cold blasts of wind, but nonetheless gave me a very satisfied feeling. It reminded me of the last visit prior to this, when I waited on the sidewalk of Ocean for my friend to cross the finish line of the LA Marathon.

Running the marathon was a goal he had before the end of the 2009 school year. He began training in August and stuck to his routine. That Sunday morning, March 21, the sun rose over Dodger Stadium where he and 25,000 people prepared to literally run through the city of Los Angeles. The kinds of people that came out to this event served as a colorful support group for the runners.

Police officers wandered up and down the course controlling the flow of traffic and protecting unaware pedestrians from walking on the wrong side of the road. I remember watching the crowd cross the one-mile mark, people running by dressed like Elvis, wearing banana suits and other costumes. On the bibs of the runners are a number to identify with and a name. Most people put their own name but there were few who wrote the name of a person to whom they dedicated the race. It is amazing to see how so many different people can come together for a few hours and share in something so incredible, running, walking or supporting.

While the insanely packed streets caused me some claustrophobic moments, I would be more than willing to bear through it all again to see the joy on my friend’s face. I have trouble articulating what it is that I felt that morning, other than the usual joy and happiness for my friend and the 25,000 people who overcame this great feat. I cannot even begin to imagine how much of an achievement it is to run the marathon, and not just any marathon but one that takes you on a tour through your own city.

Standing on the pier that morning gave me a different feeling, one that I will never feel on an ordinary day overlooking the ocean from the dock. It felt close to inspiration, similar to motivation. Maybe next year I'll find that word that I was looking for, hopefully something like 'exultance.'

“All of the hard work leading up to the race was well worth it when you cross the finish line and get an overwhelming sense of pride in yourself.” -Chad Smith, a dear friend and LA Marathon 2010 Participant.