There’s Still Time: Seven Reasons Why You Should Run the BMO Vancouver Marathon
By Guest Blogger Yana Hempler
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So you’ve been running a lot and you obviously love the sport. You have never raced before but you are looking for an unforgettable experience…
I’ve completed the BMO Vancouver Marathon and I look forward to coming back each year! I can assure you that this race will be amazing, the kind of experience that will make you fall in love with running—even more so than you already are.
The Vancouver Marathon is popular and spaces are selling out fast. The Marathon and Half Marathon events are nearly sold out.
Still waiting to take the plunge? I’m going to give you seven reasons why you should make the decision to Run Van now—before it’s too late.
1. Connect with your running community. If you’re used to running alone, the chances are you’re not meeting as many amazing people as you would if you were racing. This is one of the many reasons why I love big races like the BMO Vancouver Marathon. I’ve met some great friends, whether at the start line or the finish line, some who have become my training partners to this day. I believe it’s important to spend time with people who share common interests: racing is a great way to meet them!
2. Take in breathtaking scenery. There is a good reason why the BMO Vancouver Marathon is listed on Forbes.com as one of the “Top 10 Destination Marathons” worth traveling for. You will get to experience running through some of the most gorgeous places in Vancouver. The beautiful scenery will distract you from the challenging feat of running a marathon. Last year, when I felt like I was hitting the wall, the calm views from Seawall inspired me to keep going. Even though I didn’t end up getting a personal best, I took in the sights and truly enjoyed my race.
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3. Challenge yourself. When you race, you tend to work a bit harder than you would on your own. Whenever I run by myself, I’m almost always about 20-30 seconds per kilometer slower than race pace. Racing helps me find out what I’m capable of, and I’m sure it will do the same for you.
4. See amazing crowds of supporters. The BMO Marathon draws thousands of people who line up in big crowds all throughout the course and cheer on the runners. It’s very motivating to have people cheer you on as you are trying very hard to keep pushing through the last few kilometers. I still remember how great it was to have so many supporters along the way, even though there was a time at the 37km mark when I was struggling to keep the pace going. They really helped me get through those last 5km.
5. The Expo is awesome. If you’re looking for a place to hangout, meet friends, network, and see cool health/fitness products and services during race weekend, then you’re in luck: the Health, Sports & Lifestyle Expo has it all. It’s a great opportunity to network with like-minded individuals, as well as learn about what kinds of products are available to make your running even better. Last year, when I went to the Expo, I met some great people, bumped into friends, got some awesome deals on supplements, and registered for another marathon at a discounted Expo rate!
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6. Get that sense of accomplishment. Finishing a run feels good, but it doesn’t give me the same sense of personal satisfaction that finishing the BMO Vancouver Marathon does. It’s great to be able to say I’ve finished the marathon, with a beautiful medal to show for it. That medal will always be proof that I’ve overcome a huge challenge. I will always have the medal to remind me of the strength and endurance the race required—and you will, too if you sign up!
7. Get a sense of your abilities. By posting your finish time alongside others in your age category, The BMO Vancovuer Marathon can give you a sense of how you compare to other runners if you’re interested in friendly competition. Runners of all levels participate in the race, and I really enjoy the friendly competition that I get to experience on my way to the finish line. Trust me, you’re guaranteed to have a great time regardless of where you place.
I hope these seven reasons have inspired you to sign up for a fabulous spring race through the stunning streets and parks of Vancouver. But don’t just take my word for it—go register and find out for yourself!
What are you waiting for?
See you out there 🙂
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