Spirit of Columbus Half Marathon Official Website

The "Nitty Gritty" Details (User Opinions)

Sean K.
Johnstown, OH

  (09-01-2009)

"Everyone has a first time. Sometimes it is magical other times it is sloppy and clumsy. Occasionally - if you are paying attention - it is all three.

At moments my experience was sloppy such as when I spilled a cup of Heat down my shirt or clumsy like when I tripped over an orange cone because I was admiring the views (the ladies were very impressed), but none-the-less magical every step of the way.

After I regained my dignity from the trip and fall routine I fell into one of the many pace groups that were provided by the organizers, chanted my running mantra, put my head down and ran.

The race of 1282 people started on time - roughly - and followed a gradual downhill course from the northwest corner of Columbus to downtown along the river and near the NHL Blue Jackets' Nationwide Arena. With only a few slight hills the course was a leisurely downhill run.

I'm not the fastest runner - 9:31/mile - so I was able to get a good feel for what the dog's tail feels like. It feels thirsty. By the 5 mile marker the water stations were out of water and only had Heat. There was no water again till mile marker 10.

Truthfully, the lack of water is my only complaint but probably only the last 1/3 of the runners probably dealt with this issue - the group that needed it most.

I wouldn't say the streets were lined with people but there were small groups along the route who whistled, shouted, clanged bells and waved signs. To those offering encouragement - thank you.

The finish line was well organized with - ironically - lots of water, plus food, music and swag for the runners. The announcer even called out my name and hometown as I crossed the finish line.

Thanks to a well organized, well executed, well laid-out and well managed race my first experience with a half-marathon was, well, magical."

Reviewed by a: First Time Participant for 2009