16 DOWN, 34 TO GO…

Mayor’s Midnight Sun Marathon, Alaska
Number of Runners: 18
Elevation: 135’
Time: 4:27:18
Weather: 41 degrees, cold and overcast (and absolutely beautiful)

Today’s forecast was for snow and sleet. It had been raining for the past week, and the prediction was for more of the same. As much as I love Alaska, it wasn’t easy crawling out of bed this morning.

We were met at the start by the Mayor of Anchorage, Mr. Mark Begich. Unbeknownst to me, he had an incredible surprise in store. Mayor Begich began a presentation in which he highlighted my commitment to the environmental and unwavering advocacy for youth fitness. I was touched by his warm sentiments. But then it got better, he proceeded to presented me with a Proclamation officially declaring October 2, 2006, as “DEAN KARNAZES DAY” in Anchorage.

Wow, I could hardly believe it. A day named after me, who would have ever imagined? I was trembling as he handed me the document and commemorative coin. I thanked Mayor Begich, and shook his hand (probably for way too long). Today was going to be a good run, no matter how bad the weather got.

But the weather never did get bad. Though it was cold, we were blessed by a day free of rain or snow. The only snow was on the mountains in the background, which made for a beautiful backdrop. Combine the snowy mountains with the changing colors of the leaves, and you have what has been aptly called, “One of the most spectacular marathons in the world.”

Yet every bit as spectacular as the course were the other runners. One had flown in from Mexico (Brad had previously run with me in Memphis, marathon #2), one had flown in from Colorado (his farthest run to date was 11 miles, and he was hoping to complete the half marathon), and another had flown down from Fairbanks. There were two doctors in the group, an Air Force pilot, and a host of really fast runners.

We saw moose along the run, forged several stream crossings, ran on trails, ran on roads, and ran on footpaths. The variety of terrain and scenery kept things fresh, even as the miles added up. We were joined along the way by a local high school track coach, and two of her students. One ran a couple miles with us, and the other ran the last six. He was just 15 years old, yet he had completed the Mayor’s Midnight Run marathon in June. To complete a marathon at that age is remarkable!

The finish was on the West High School track. We crossed the line hand-in-hand to the cheers of the crowd that had gathered to welcome us. Hugs and handshakes were exchanged, and each of the runners were presented with a finishers Medal by the Race Director. Then it occurred to me, standing amongst the group was the runner from Colorado. He hadn’t stopped at the half marathon! It was a tremendous effort by all, and we quickly reconvened at REI for a celebration (where they had cranked up the heater for us).

Today was magical. Not only did the weather cooperate unexpectedly for us, the runners remained steadfast and energetic throughout a very challenging marathon. These were true kindred spirits, and I couldn’t think of a better way to spend Dean Karnazes Day.

Thank you Major Begich, and thank you runners!

See you next year October 2nd for sure.

Warmest regards,
Dean

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Comments

[Suzie Petunia]

My running buddy and I both wanted to run with you either in Seattle or Portland (we live near Portland) but couldn't make it work! We are both moms and both pregnant. We feel like we could have still done it if the planets had been aligned properly. Schedules ... kids ... one injured husband... We may not be able to run with you, but we talk about you and feel inspired every day when we get together to run. We are enjoying every update and following you daily on your journey. We love your big heart and the warmth with which you embrace every fellow runner who you have inspired and who wants to run with you. We would be two of those people if we could! Maybe someday!!

[Roy Young]

Wow! Way Cool, AGAIN!
I so enjoy hearing of your experences and reading about those who's lives, hearts & spirits you have touched. It was a honor to run with you and to be reading daily about your adventure. I look forward to each posting.
I would love to run with you again, but I don't think it will be during this event. But who knows. . . ;~)

May you run long & strong…
Roy
Gresham, OR

[Tyler Andersen]

Hey Dean,
I just wanted to thank you so much again. It was such an honor to meet a guy like you today. You are amazing and a huge inspiration to everyone. Good Luck for your remaining 34 marathons!! You should most certainly come back to Anchorage another time soon and stay for a while! It would be awesome to run with you again. Thank you again and again.

Best of Luck on all Your Lifes Adventures,

Tyler Andersen
Anchorage, Ak

[Lou]

Congratulations for Dean Karnazes Day in Anchorage! Keep up the great running!

[Mike]

Details of the Alaska run sound incredible. What an honor to have your own day! I'm in training for my own Marathon in December and am running with you in New Jersey (your 49th marathon!) so I'm following this blog daily. Keep up the great work Dean and keep the details coming. I could almost envision that run with the snow in the background. Awesome!

Mike

[Stephanie Schwiebert]

Dean, I have got all of my neighbors hooked on reading your daily blogs. We all have children so we think what you are doing is wonderful!!!!! You are my hero and you and your book have complet;ey changed my life! I went from 185 pounds and drinking every night to becoming completley sober, lost 65 pounds and run 10 miles a day all from reading your book. It has made an impact on my 12 year old sons life too. We all love you here in San Diego and are cheering you on. We send warm regards to your family as well.
GO DEAN GO
Stephanie Schwiebert

[John Ponce]

Your story is incredible. Setting a goal that would inspire any couch potatoe. Forrest Gump would be proud of you. I hope to see you at the Chicago Marathon. I'll be there for my first marathon. My question is; what do you eat while running? Any suggestions? I ran 20 miles last weekend and was starving for french fries. No ketchup, just salty fries. Please share any secrets. DAMN FINE JOB!! John