I watched (in person) parts of the Chicago Marathon today with Steven, his brother Andrew, and Diane. What a fun experience it was! We arrived at the almost 8 mile mark just in time to see the elite runners. I was super giddy when I saw them run by, in their tight little pack. (Click on pictures to enlarge)

Elite Men Runners

I wasn’t sure if they would look that fast in person. But damn, they looked fast. And holy crap, Sammy Wanjiru set a new course record of 2:05:41!!!!

Elite Men Runners

Elite Men Runners

They look like galloping animals to me.

Elite Women Runners

We had a lot of fun cheering for all of the runners. I’m so happy Diane joined us. I think we made pretty good cheerleaders – I am surprised I still have my voice right now though!

Diane and me

I was really (foolishly?) hoping I would see my friends who are running. I even made signs for them! (Yes, my lettering sucks)

Trying to cheer for Mica

Trying to cheer for Presi

Trying to cheer for Jamie

Trying to cheer for Eric

But the course was so ridiculously crowded. We even went down to the 22 mile mark, after we cheered on the last runners through mile 8, and I still didn’t see anyone I knew. Unless that was you Mica, wearing two braids. I swear it was you… but you had a hat on, and I couldn’t see your face?

Super crowded course

Watching this race made me think A LOT about whether or not I want to run it next year. I love that so many people from Chicago (and probably around the world) are out there cheering and showing so much support! But, whoa, the course looked SO crowded. I think if I run Chicago, I will definitely want to do it with Steven or a friend (to keep me sane). And if people are watching for me, I will ask to know where they will be, what side of the street they will be on, and try to wear something fun so they can identify me (maybe like one of the photos below?).

Seeing all of the different types of runners and all the community support today was so inspiring. Being able to be there, cheering, made me feel less sad that I can’t run right now (yeah, way to make it all about me). I recommend cheering runners on in a local race if you can (especially if it’s a big one like this) – it’s so fun!

Random funny photos: