Race director Doug Yoder, left, and the competitors in Sunday’s Maple Leaf Indoor Marathon at Goshen College in Goshen, Ind.( I’m fifth from right, in a gray T-shirt and neon headband.)
The atmosphere and camaraderie at Sunday’s marathon was awesome. I expected to be intimidated, especially after I learned I was the only rookie in the field, but everybody was extremely supportive. Telling example: The guy who won was still hanging around when I finished 2 1/2 hours later, and he ran the last lap with me for moral support.
My time was about what I expected — 5:31, a 12 1/2 minute pace — and I met my goal of running the entire distance (except for two water breaks where I walked about 50 meters as I drank). I was not last, finishing 22nd out of 27 runners, but I should note that everybody behind me had run the previous day’s marathon as well — and in some cases, four or even six marathons that week.
A great race, full of amazing people. I’ll have more details in another post.
90in9 
Heartfelt congratulations Tisch… Awesome job running the whole thing.
I may be slow, but there was no way I was gonna stop. Thanks!
Wow, can’t wait for the recap, so many unique things about that marathon.
Yes, it definitely is very different from some of the giant marathons out there. I think indoor marathons are becoming kind of a northern climate thing, though,
Impressive! And classy for #1 to run the last lap with you. Now enjoy some rest! Elizabeth
Not impressive, but I’m glad I did it. It’s nice to run a race that has a built-in support system.
Congratulations.
Thanks!
Congratulations on your first marathon. It’s a big accomplishment. Are you planning your next one all ready?
If you got a medal and would like to put it on display for a reasonable price check out http://www.medalframz.com It’s my little business.
Those look cool! For now I usually just toss my race medals in a drawer, but that’s a good idea if I get more inspired at some point…