Light at the End of the Tunnel Marathon

Para los corredores de asfalto es algo muy diferente, un trayecto entre montañas, rios y pendiente negativa pero no drástica. Dado que se corre con desnivel, es un poco demandante a nivel muscular, no obstante, estadísticamente es una de las mejores carreras para BQ y PR (logré ambas cosas). Este año (2023) fue modificada la logística de trasnporte de los corredores a la salida, lo que afectó a algunos corredores como fue mi caso. En todo el trayecto tienen muy buena hidratación y seguridad. Es una carrera de aproximadamente 900 personas, lo que la hace muy fluida y relajante. Google Translation: For asphalt runners it is something very different, a journey between mountains, rivers and a negative but not drastic slope. Since it's run with a drop, it's a bit demanding on a muscular level, however, statistically it's one of the best races for BQ and PR (I did both). This year (2023) the logistics of transporting the runners at the start was modified, which affected some runners, as was the case with me. Throughout the journey they have very good hydration and safety. It is a race of approximately 900 people, which makes it very fluid and relaxing.

This marathon is actually a series of three run on the same course at different times. I did the Aug. one called 'tunnel vision.' I had done many previous marathons (64) but never one on an entire downhill course. This makes for fast times but if not trained well very sore muscles. For me it allowed for a Boston Qualifying by 15 minutes. It is run entirely off road - beautiful views of the cascade mountains. If you are looking for large crowds in a city area - don't run this one. If you want a very fast time on an enjoyable, different course - pick any of the 'tunnel Marathons.' Well organized, good food at the end, nice shirt and medal. And, unique for any of my marathons... an ice filled large pool for soaking sore legs at the end!

This is a well organized and very well supported marathon with water, gatorade and 3 kinds of Gu every 2.5 miles. It is a trail run but almost all downhill. Many people BQ on this because it is downhill but I did not. In fact the downhill did not help me at all and I ended up really hurting towards the end. It is a Rails to Trails route so it has no spectators and is shaded by trees for most of the route. Highly recommend this race but do prep by running downhill. It loses 2000 feet in elevation.