Nebraska State Fair Marathon: Grand Island, Nebraska, August 26th, 2023 – Marathon #27
Let’s Go To The Fair
Fresh off my trip to Alaska, where the weather was beautiful and the marathon was a blast, I found myself struggling with a summer cold and allergies. Kansas City’s weather had been sweltering in the 100s, and it was no different in Grand Island, Nebraska, where the race would take place. As the days passed, it seemed my condition only worsened, but I powered through with all the cold remedies I could find.
By the time Friday came, I decided to bring someone along for the ride, assuming I would be too tired to drive after the marathon, especially given I wasn’t feeling my best.
The weather on race day was great, but unfortunately, my lack of sleep caught up with me. From the very start, I didn’t feel 100%. Around mile 9, I realized I’d mixed two different cold medicines, which led to extreme nausea from miles 9 to 16. That definitely made for a tougher race, but the positive side was the fantastic spectator support. Thank you, Nebraska, for keeping me motivated throughout the race.
The course was flat, which I was grateful for, especially while battling my cold. I had hoped to keep my streak of second-place finishes going, but it wasn’t meant to be. I ended up taking 5th place, but I was still pleased with my performance, especially considering how sick I felt. I managed to run under 5:00 hours, which is a solid time for me given the circumstances.
As part of my race package, I got to visit the Nebraska State Fair. There were so many vendors and livestock to check out, but the highlight for me was seeing brand new piglets being born. By the time we left, 13 piglets had been born, and they were expecting 17 in total. It was such a cool experience!
Another highlight of this race was meeting up with friends I’ve made through my marathon travels—Sherry from Austin, Texas, and Samantha and John from home, along with many other new friends. I am truly grateful for the incredible opportunity I’ve had to meet so many amazing people on this journey.
Next week, I’ll be traveling to Tupelo, Mississippi, for my 19th marathon on September 3, 2023. Let’s go!