Coastal Delaware Marathon: Rehob, Delaware, April 16, 2023 – Marathon #12
Tower Challenge Complete
Delaware, you were everything I hoped for and more! This weekend was a mix of beautiful weather, great company, and lessons in resilience. I ran two races to complete the Tower Challenge, which always makes the journey more interesting. Saturday’s 5K was one of my fastest yet at 26:04, and it set the perfect tone for what was to come.
The 5K: A Story of Strength
The weather was perfect for a short run—sun peeked out a few times, but it wasn’t too hot, and there was a slight breeze that kept it comfortable. One of the things I love most about running marathons and 5Ks in different places is meeting the people along the way. Everyone has a reason they’re running—each person is on their own journey, and it’s always inspiring to hear their stories.
I met a woman at the start line who, after I asked her to take my picture, shared her story with me. She was running a 5K in every state, and her goal was to complete them before she turned sixty. That alone was impressive, but then she added that this would be her first race sober. She’d been sober for 135 days. I told her how proud I was of her and wished her good luck. Her strength stuck with me throughout the weekend, and she was on my mind during the marathon the next day.
The Marathon: Heat, Humidity, and Perseverance
The marathon started off beautiful. As the sun rose over the Atlantic Ocean, I found a moment of calm. The sound of the waves crashing on the shore was the perfect soundtrack to stretch to—it was almost therapeutic. The weather was gorgeous at the start, but the heat and humidity crept up on us as the race went on. And let me tell you, this course—while flat—was more challenging than I expected.
Around mile 7, we ran through a wildlife preserve, and there was a massive puddle blocking the way. There was no way to avoid it—I had to run straight through it. My shoes and socks were instantly soaked, and for the rest of the race, I could feel the water sloshing around. It wasn’t ideal, but it was just one of those things you have to push through. The discomfort was real—my feet and socks were shifting around, causing some serious pain. But I just kept telling myself, “Move past this. It’s marathon number thirteen.”
By mile 19.5, the heat was taking its toll on me. I passed a fellow runner who had collapsed and was being attended to because of the heat. I couldn’t tell if I had over-hydrated or under-hydrated, but I did feel a little off. Honestly, I was ready for the 26.2 miles to be over. The run was beautiful, but it was also grueling. At that point, I turned off my music with about six miles to go. I needed to get my head back in the game, and sometimes silence is the best remedy for that.
Each race, I realize, is a different experience. From the people you meet, the weather, your mental state, and how your body holds up—it’s never the same twice. I also came to appreciate just how much the course itself shapes your experience. The flatness of the Delaware course was a gift in some ways, but I found it didn’t make the race any easier.
A Well-Deserved Reward: Food and Reflection
But, oh—Delaware, you did not disappoint when it came to food. After the marathon, I treated myself to the most amazing crab cakes and a lobster cavatappi. It was exactly what I needed to fuel up and reflect on the weekend.
As I walked away from this race weekend, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. I had completed two races, met incredible people, and ran through some of the most picturesque areas along the coast. And while this race didn’t come without its challenges—heat, humidity, and soggy shoes—I know I grew from it. I’ve learned that each race is a chance to reflect, grow, and push through discomfort.
Delaware, thank you for the memories, the support, and the delicious food. I’ll be back, for sure. But until then, it’s on to the next state!
Until next time, Delaware. 🌊👟🦀