I have marathon envy! Why? It’s perfect weather here for today’s Chicago Marathon. It is not too cold and not too hot. As Goldilocks would say, “it’s just right.” People think running marathons is hard, but spectating can be tougher than you’d think. Really? Yes! Ask my friend Eric F. in NYC what happened when he tried to find a newbie marathoner friend in NYC in Central Park for HOURS. He was used to getting prepped by me with what I would be wearing, which side of the street, my number and estimated time.
My Top 10 Tips for Spectators:
- This one is important. Never, ever, never, ever, never tell runners that they are “almost there” unless in fact they are almost there. In my mind that means .5 miles or less. Even better, only yell this if you can actually see the finish line. When someone yells this at Mile 10, or even 15, I want to punch them and hurl myself off of a bridge. Got that one? Good. Jason adds, “when you see a runner in pain who is walking, please do not say ‘looking good.’ Try ‘You can do it’ or ‘Keep it up .’”
- Know your runner’s (or runners’) details: Number, what he/she is wearing and estimated pace. Also, try a race tracker app if one is available. Here’s the link to the Chicago Marathon App for 2016.
- Tell your runners where you plan to stand including which side of the street. This is very important in Chicago and other big city races, especially in /near crowded pace groups.
- Steal my friend Carolyn’s bright idea: Carry a large helium balloon and tell your runners to “look for Tweety Bird at mile X.” Works like a CHARM!
- Bring a bell or clapper or be ready for very sore hands from clapping.
- Make a fun sign. (I never do this but I love the good sign and try to remember the best ones for my recap.) A good sense of humor makes you awesome to runners.
- Yell loud and smile. I generally do this until I have no voice and my face hurts. The more my face and hands hurt, the more successful I feel.
- Yell names, schools, teams, etc. – let the runner know you are rooting for him/her. So many strangers have lifted me up in marathons. It’s the best feeling.
- Consider going to a less popular area where people will really need the support.
- Bring tissues or paper towels, vaseline and water. Just in case.
Did I miss anything?
Go runners! Here’s to miles and miles of smiles and personal bests!