EverSource Hartford Marathon: Hartford, Connecticut, October 14, 2023 – Marathon #33
As I reflect on this race, I feel both satisfied and slightly disappointed. I had hoped to run a little faster, but given the circumstances, I’m still content with how it went. I knew this would be a quick turnaround race—flying in on Friday evening, racing on Saturday, and then heading straight back to the airport to fly home. Because of that, I didn’t get to experience much of Hartford outside of race day.
That said, I really enjoyed the expo. The volunteers were incredibly helpful and kind. I had purchased a pre-race package, which I hadn’t seen at any other race. My bib was personalized and mailed to me before the event, which definitely took the stress out of packet pickup. Of course, I still made time to go to the expo to meet new people and see if there were any runners I recognized from past races.
I also saw on Facebook that there would be several 50 State Club members and Marathon Maniacs at the race. I always hope to spot them so I can get pictures!
I had a great night’s sleep and woke up feeling ready to run my 34th marathon. Since it was just a week after the Chicago Marathon, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Chicago had such an amazing atmosphere, so I worked hard not to compare the crowd participation. One of my favorite things about running is seeing the crowds lined up, cheering for us random strangers. Each person represents a story, a hope, or a dream that I don’t know, but for a brief moment, I feel like their cheers are meant for me. I especially love seeing the kids. Their faces and smiles always warm my heart and remind me of my own grandkids.
The crowd participation in Hartford was excellent. The spectators were enthusiastic, and the runners were friendly and ready to go. As I ran, I found myself snapping pictures of fellow 50 Staters and Marathon Maniacs along the course since I hadn’t coordinated a pre-race photo.
As usual, I made a few new friends along the way. It seems like that happens at nearly every race! Another common theme lately has been runners coming up to me and saying, “Hey, I saw you running at this marathon or that marathon!” It’s pretty cool to know that people remember me in the sea of runners.
I finished the race in under 5 hours—my goal these days. My time was 4:49, and I’m happy with that. Next week, I’ll be in Atlantic City, New Jersey.