Event and Race Reviews This is a growing collection of Race and Event Reviews. All of these reviews were written by our members and represent each author's experiences and opinions only. Back to Events Listing
Calgary Burnco Marathon
(Calgary, Alberta)
Author: Runnergirl
Date: 2005-08-15
Did the Half in Calgary (my hometown) last year ... didn't get a chance to go out this summer.
I found the race fabulously organized and really appreciated the bands that played while enroute - you're right DStew, that there isn't a lot of fan support out there.
The other great thing about the event is that it falls on the first Sunday of Stampede, so it's a great way to hit two terrific events.
One thing to note, though, is that Calgary is at a higher elevation and can play a little havoc. I set a PW there last summer, but that won't stop me for going back for more! Author: Dstew
Date: 2005-08-12
Race pick up Friday night and Saturday. The Friday night is crazy, long lines as all of the races, marathon, half marathon and 10 K pick up at the same place although different tables for each chip and bib pick up and another line and table for the shirt. Then a third line to check the chip.
Saturday is much less crowded. Some ok stuff to buy and some interesting displays - speakers this year and improving. No pasta dinner, etc.
Marathon starts a 7:00 am, half at 7:30 and 10 K at 8:00. Near the end, all three races will share the road so ... Not too bad, but weird looks from the very slow half marathoners that seem to say, "you are crazy to be running that hard" and at that time in race - less than 1 K to go, you agree.
The first part of the marathon route is the most interesting. You run down the middle of the downtown - all of the roads are shut off and manned by police officers. Dirty looks from stranded motorists. This year they had family day the same time the race was run. That meant parents and children trying to get down to the Stampede Grounds to get a free breakfast. Good crowd control but you had to keep your head up just in case.
Then through the middle of the Midway at the Stampede Grounds. Some of the Carnival workers came out to give their "support" - "hey buddy, you are being beaten by a girl".
Through some residental area and then through the zoo itself. A "hill" at about the 8 - 10 K mark that although not too tough, if not run properly is likely to bite you in the last few kilometers.
Onto a 4 lane road that they closed off this year. Last year, one lane in each was open for traffic. I actually liked the way it was last year because the motorists all hooked their horns and yelled encouragement.
This year they changed the route into a very nice neighbourhood near the Bow river. The problem was that the road was so bad that it had literally broken down into gravel. Very uneven and I saw several people go a sidewalk (against the rules) to avoid the worst of it. Eventually turn around at Bowness Park right along the river - very nice and back along memorial drive and the Bow River is to your right.
No problems at the aid stations - water, gatorade and sponges. I got gels at three different spots - one "official" for the marathon, one was clearly a promotional one and one at a half marathon station that had extra and most of the half marathoners had already passed. One girl who was giving out vasoline giggled everytime she asked. Banana also at about 28 K.
Aside from the course marshalls and police officer, until near the finish - 500 meters out, little or no crowd support.
The race package is a package of two motrin, a couple of coupons and a great technical racing shirt with the Calgary Marathon logo in the front and back.
Post race - typical post race drinks and food. Pre-paid massage is $15 and was very good, 15-20 minutes.
Summary: Good no nonsense race on a basically very flat course.
|
