Looking for a spring Boston Qualifier with beautiful views, a fast course, and great weather? Check out the 2015 Wenatchee Marathon in the heart of central Washington. This traffic-free course runs along the Columbia River on paved trails with views of the Cascades. The Wenatchee Marathon also includes a USATF certified half marathon and 10K, along with a Kids Run.
This event is one of my favorites. Although, I’ve never run the marathon, I’ve run the half marathon 4 times and the 10K once. (See my recap of the 2013 Half Marathon and the 2014 10K.) Why do I like it so much?
- Wenatchee Half Marathon runners along the Columbia River.
1) The course. Starting at the Performing Arts Plaza, the course begins on closed streets and then makes its way to paved trails along the Columbia. Traffic is never an issue and the views are amazing. The course is mostly flat with some good rollers once you cross the river, but the beauty of rollers is that you get to build up momentum on the downhills. The half marathon is an out and back course, while the marathon is a loop with 2 river crossings.
2) The weather. As I mentioned before, I have run this race 5 times. I have never experienced bad weather. Some years it has been quite cold at the start, other times it has been quite warm by the finish, but it has always been rain-free and sunny. Regardless of the exact temperature, it has pretty much felt like perfect running weather every year. And, in April, when it is often grey and a bit dreary in the Portland area, it is always a welcome relief to head to the central Washington sunshine.
3) The atmosphere. With racers gathering at the Performing Arts Plaza, you are immediately hit with the atmosphere of a big city-like race in a smaller town. The Wenatchee Marathon is well-organized, with plenty of volunteers. When I get to the Plaza before each race, there is a positive feeling and an air of excitement that always gets me ready for the run. Out on the course, runners are friendly. Some are focused and ready to kill their race, while others are dressed up and having a whole lot of fun along the way. I love the mix. And, I have to say, there is something different about runners in central Washington. Perhaps it’s that small town feel, but I always feel comfortable and kind of wish I could run there with a running group regularly.
4) It’s my half marathon PR course. Need I say more?
5) A great cause. The Wenatchee Marathon is put on by TedDriven, an organization that supports cancer research and local charities. Started by a group of people who have all been directly affected by loss due to cancer, the dedication to this cause is close to home. Sadly, Ted Finegold, who was monumental in getting the Wenatchee Marathon started, was diagnosed with cancer and passed away in 2010. The name TedDriven was set up in his honor and they continue to honor him and others they have lost by donating the proceeds from their events to promote cancer research.
As you can tell, I highly recommend this race! I already have plans to be there in April. I’ve decided to try and PR the 10K course this year. Wish me luck! I’d love to see you there.
Wenatchee Marathon Details
Date: Saturday, April 18
Times: 6:30 A.M. – Early Bird start for marathon walkers 7:40 A.M. – Kids Race 8:00 A.M. – Half marathon 8:15 – Marathon and 10K
Location: Performing Arts Plaza, 123 N Wenatchee Ave. Wenatchee, WA
Entry Fees: Through Feb. 28 $105 – Marathon, $85 – Half-Marathon, $55 – 10K
Race Website: Click Here
Registration Website: Click Here
Course Maps: Click Here
