In Seward, Alaska, the iconic Mount Marathon race is gearing up for its 97th edition this Friday, attracting over a thousand eager runners ready to tackle the grueling ascent and descent of the 3,022-foot peak. Known as “the toughest 5k on the planet,” this historic event not only tests physical prowess but also serves as a vibrant celebration of Independence Day for both competitors and spectators alike.
The race uniquely begins and concludes in downtown Seward, an area that transforms into a lively venue filled with cheering crowds. The roots of this illustrious race trace back to a simple bar bet, evolving into a demanding challenge that combines road running, uphill trekking on a steep gradient averaging 34 degrees, and technical downhill trails passing through an active waterfall.
Holly Brooks, a former Olympic skier and a two-time Mount Marathon champion, is expected to provide live commentary for the race stream. In a recent interview with Alaska News Nightly, Brooks expressed her enthusiasm for the event, highlighting its distinct blend of camaraderie among runners and the thrilling atmosphere created by the vast number of onlookers.
“You know, it is maybe one of the most unique races in the world,” she commented.
Brooks emphasized that the race’s enduring legacy, nearly a century old, adds to its charm and significance in the realm of mountain racing.
As excitement builds, the women’s race is anticipated to be particularly competitive this year. Eight of the top ten female runners from last year are returning to the starting line, with the only notable absence being two-time champion Hannah Lafleur, who is unable to compete due to pregnancy.
Klaire Rhodes, the reigning champion, is once again a strong favorite as she is the fourth woman ever to finish the race in under 50 minutes. However, she will face tough competition from several talented athletes.
Kendall Kramer, just 23 years old and an athlete from Fairbanks, is among those to watch, excelling especially in uphill sections. Her risk-taking on the technical downhill could determine her fate in the race.
Meanwhile, age is just a number as 45-year-old Meg Inokuma, who has made impressive finishes in past races, celebrates her tenacity with a clenched desire for victory this year.
Another formidable competitor is 44-year-old Christy Marvin, a three-time Mount Marathon champion from Palmer, who hopes to reclaim her podium position after overcoming injury issues that hindered her last season. Her exceptional past record included a decade-long streak of finishes in the top ranks.
In addition, the lineup features Denali Foldager-Strabel, April McAnly, Sophie Wright, and Rosie Fordham, alongside a promising newcomer, Kalie McCrystal, a professional trail runner from Squamish, B.C. The unpredictability of outsiders like McCrystal adds an intriguing dimension to the competition.
On the men’s side of the race, the spotlight turns to David Norris, a remarkable athlete whose record remains unbeaten in five past entries. Last year, Norris achieved victory with a significant lead, finishing over two minutes ahead of his closest competitors and setting a record time of 40 minutes and 37 seconds.
As race day approaches, queries about whether Norris can break the elusive 40-minute barrier fill the air. This feat was once deemed impossible on the difficult Mount Marathon course, but with his current fitness and exceptional mountain experience, the prospect seems tangible.
Conversations also reveal that Norris has been strategically training to enhance his speed on the paved portions of the race route, where quick transitions can make all the difference in overall performance.
A key highlight of the Mount Marathon experience is the electrifying atmosphere that unfolds during the race, especially on the initial paved section. As runners make the steep descent, they are welcomed back into the chaos of cheers and excitement.
“The pavement is pretty intense,” Brooks detailed, describing the moment as runners transition from the solitary experience of the mountain back to the lively crowd.
With thousands of voices rallying around the finish area, the adrenaline levels spike, creating a thrilling environment for both runners and spectators.
As participants navigate through the cheers, music, and the commanding presence of police vehicles marking their arrival, the experience becomes a vibrant tapestry of physical endurance intertwined with community spirit amidst the scenic beauty of Seward, Alaska.
Race day promises to be an unforgettable affair, as competitors take to the mountainside and embody the true spirit of adventure that Mount Marathon encapsulates.
image source from：alaskapublic
