The Portland Marathon – News, updates, tips, and true stories as we countdown to the 42nd Annual Portland Marathon on 10-06-13.

Cross "Portland Marathon" off your list in 2013… your bucket list that is!

Make the commitment now to run or walk the Portland Marathon in 2013. Whether you're participating in the event to gain confidence, lose weight, accomplish one of your life goal's or celebrate your health, you will not regret it.

Registration for the Portland Marathon and Half Marathon are now open. Register now to guarantee your spot at the start line and receive the early registration rates. The 2013 Portland Marathon will be held on October 6, 2013.

Portland Marathon HALF is filling fast — Register now before the price increase and sellout!

Limited Edition Portland Marathon Grimm shirts!

More of your 2012 photos!

It's Alive!

Check our new and improved Portland Marathon website: www.portlandmarathon.org.

More photos and improved content and information that's easier to find. Share your feedback with us at news@portlandmarathon.org. 

A Big Thanks to the Volunteer Committee and all the Volunteers for another great year!

The Portland Marathon Committee celebrated another successful year with the annual November Celebration Reception. Gift bags from the Event Director were presented to each of the Committee Members and special awards were presented in categories such as "Rookie of the Year" which was shared by Jeff Olson (start/finish area) and Kylee Deterding (course aid stations) this year.

Participants may not be aware that a year round dedicated Volunteer Committee of 70 plan and execute the Event each October and oversee over 4,500 Volunteers!!

Pictured here are long time Course Director, Dick Busy (29 years on the committee), Event Director, Les Smith (32 years as Event Director) and Course Director Chris Hardman (29 years on the committee). Of the 70 Committee positions, only a few spots occasionally become available. If you are interested in the being considered for a Volunteer Committee position, email your resume to mamie@portlandmarathon.org and indicate your area of interest.

Tales from the course…

Portland was my first full marathon! I have walked a few half-marathons however this was a blast….except for the last mile which I kept telling my friend I KNEW was longer than a mile..!!! Very fun and I thank you all. The bands and volunteers and spectators were awesome. The cheerleaders were sweet and encouraging.

The only thing I would suggest is for the bands to have a sign up with their names! I would love to hear some of these people again. Maybe they did and we were just walking by too fast to notice!

Thanks for a great marathon!

Ginny Horn

First one, I started running/training for the Portland Marathon on my daughter's birthday 10-10-2011. I have never been a runner before or even a jogger, but at age 48 I decided that this is something I wanted to do.

Most of my friends thought I was crazy to try something this hard, but the way I look at it, "why not?"

I was told that I should not set a time goal and that I should focus on just trying to finish. I need to explain the way I determined my finish time goal. As I was filling out the online registration, the question came up…did I expect to finish in under 4 hrs (not knowing anything about running or times or marathons)? I thought if they are asking, then there must be some kind of threshold, so I clicked "yes." Then I thought holy cow what did I just do.

So the training really began. I set a goal for 3:45. I missed it by 14.38 minutes. My finish time was 3:59.22 with a big, fat blister on my pinky toe and a very painful IT band.

Next year I plan on hitting my goal. The really neat thing is that I have roped a couple of my buddies to train for the Rock n Roll Half coming in May. See you next year Portland Marathon and thank you for all the support from the running community.

Frank Bear

This was my very first marathon. Here is my summary: Be strong, stay positive.

Well, it's been over two weeks since this adventure in my life. I have to say that it was the hardest thing I've ever done, physically and mentally.

My training had been going well overall until about 3 weeks prior, when my right foot went weird on me. So, I entered this run with a little more anxiety and trepidation than I expected. I had hoped for a sub 5 hour time, before injury-now I just wanted to finish. It was going to be a beautiful day in Portland. Temps in the 50's to start. Clear skies. The first few miles went well. My right foot would just twinge occasionally.

Of course, I started out too fast. Even though my youngest sister warned me multiple times to stay slow! In the beginning it was overwhelming to count down how many more miles were to come. Be strong, stay positive.

I got to mile 13, the half way point, with some left knee pain and some concerns about how I felt with so much left to go. Got a hug from a co-worker, and kept going. So far, we had just walked at the water stations. I will never forget seeing the mile 15 sign. Me thinking "yay-it's already mile 15", immediately followed by a panicked feeling of "oh no-I still have 11 more to go."

Looking down at the bracelet I was wearing with my sister's name on it, helped boost my mood. She was "running" it with me in spirit. It was warming up, the high that day reached 80.

Then came the St John's bridge and the hill going up to it. I had to walk some of the hill. I felt bad, because my dad would just gradually pull ahead, then he would have to wait for me. He told me to quit apologizing!

The bridge views were beautiful and so was running along the bluff, by Univ. of Portland. (my dad's alma mater and where my parents met). Mile 20- the longest point I had trained up to. So thankful, again, for my co-worker. She ran/walked with us for a few blocks. I told her I would finish. My body was quite unhappy, but I had to finish this! Be strong, stay positive.

I honestly don't know how I got through the last six miles. One foot at a time, I guess. I did more walking than I wanted. At mile 26 there was one last water station. On my right I see my mom with my nephew and niece-cheering us on!

One block later I see my sisters and my daughter. I so wanted to be done. Two more blocks to go, shuffle shuffle, I hear other friends cheering me on, shuffle shuffle, the fat lady is singing, turn the corner: I see the finish line!!

Dad grabs my hand and we cross the finish line. They apparently announce my name, and correctly pronounced, I don't hear it. We are done.

I finished in my goal time 4:56:33. We go through the line to get our medals, roses, food and finishers shirts. As we exit the participants only area I see my daughter-I still get emotional thinking about the hug from her. Oh, and then my sisters and all the family! Bawling my eyes out!

Hardest thing ever. But I did it. It took me a few days to be truly proud of myself. I "checked" out for a bit, while my body slowly recovered.

I've been asked: would I do it again. My answer is: yes-with someone. I did a lot of training on my own for this. I would do another if I had more training company.

My biggest thanks goes to my dad. He's my hero. He's run 22 Portland Marathons. And I have finished my first!!

Be strong, stay positive: my mantra that got me through 26.2 miles.

Korryn

Oh say can you sing? Let's make it a tradition!

We received great feedback this year about our idea to have YOU sing the National Anthem this year to kick off the event. Although we had problems with the sound and PA system (which we will be correcting), we're keeping the tradition and improving your experience for next year. As you're training for the 2013 Marathon, be sure to also brush up on your singing skills and memorize those lyrics to the Star Spangled Banner!

Connect with other runners and walkers online!

Join our online community. Share information with other runners. Get tips for training and more. Join the conversation about running, walking and the Portland Marathon on Facebook and Twitter.

Cold weather is coming. What is your secret weapon to stay comfortable while training?

Maritsa — Run a lil faster…

Edna — Layers

Aubrey — Cold gear from Under Armor – it's perfect!

David — Fat cells

Christina — Jägermeister Lol

Norma — Treadmill

Nicole — A running buddy! Someone to be accountable to when I'm being a baby.

Ngoc — Visiting runner friends and family living in warmer places.

Becky — Oiselle makes the perfect clothes for cold weather! Check out their Rundelicious top, Stripey Tee, Clearly Jacket and Vest, Lesley Knickers and Tights

Michelle — More indoor cross training for speed work, treadmill, and lunch-hour runs.

Jen — Layers. Long socks. Beanie hat (or cap & earmuffs). More layers. Post-run coffee.

Tonya — Run faster!

Heidi — A hot shower to thaw my toes and other … extremities. It's weird how parts of my body can be so hot and others so cold regardless of the number of layers. During the coldest weather, will switch from Vibram Bikilas to some Brooks cross country shoes just so I can wear socks.

Deanna — Treadmill, snowshoes, maybe run a lil slower. Geez! Gotta do that in Montana.

Sandy — Those little hot hands pocket warmers. They are cheap and will last an hour run. And a head band to protect the ears.

Gloria — Staying right here in Florida!!

Christine — It's never too cold to run in the Portland area. Layer.

We asked our Facebook friends to share their Top 5 Training Tips. Here's what they had to say…

Laura Jayne

Deboray — Start slow. respect the hills. hydrate. stretch before and after. break a long run down into minutes, not miles.

John — HILL REPEATS…HILL REPEATS…HILL REPEATS

Kimberly — If you can't have a conversation on your long runs, you're running too fast.

Patrick — 2 small runs during the week. 1 stair-stepping LSD with varying terrain on weekends. Start small and go up; take steps back to reward yourself. Stretch and mild strength training helps a lot.

David— Train and race at YOUR level.

Mike — Advil, Imodium AD, Massage Envy, Drop Top for carb loading, and sleep.

Nicholas —

1. Diet. Your nutrition and clean eating is so important.
2. RECOVERY, RECOVERY, RECOVERY.
3. Stretch.
4. Have fun.
5. Repeat 1-4

Melodee — #1: Listen to your body it will tell you what it needs. Everything is magnified over the course of 26.2 so a little diligence early in training will pay off in the end!

Shannon — Use a training plan, but don't be rigid about it. Allow yourself flexibility depending on your body, your schedule, weather conditions, all of that other stuff!

Nellie — Don't beat yourself up over one bad run. Everyone has off days.

Frank — Have a friend that is 10 yrs younger that pushes you to run faster, then after a little while leave him behind, at least that was part of my training. At 49 yrs old just starting to run it was a gift to myself. Finished my first marathon ( Portland) 3.59:22

Maria — Keep running, even in the Winter!!!

Amber —

1. Follow a plan, but be flexible.
2. Foam roll as often as possible (I foam roll every night before bed)
3. Dynamic stretch before you run.
4. Eat properly (fuel your body with food and is it to help repair the damage you create by pushing).
5. Hydrate properly (this means before, during and after your run).

Sandy —

1. Listen to seasoned marathoners for tips and advise. They will help you avoid pitfalls.
2. Follow a plan that fits your schedule. If it won't fit, you are less likely to follow it.
3. Stretching is part of your run. Don't skip it!
4. Ice and a foam roller are your new best friends
5. RESPECT the rest day.

Wayne —

1. Carry your child or children on your shoulders to get whole family involved.
2. Chia seeds in your water bottle.
3. Get your children to love running, playing sports in general. Endurance sports in particular.
4. Do a cardio/core/yoga class.
5. Run a weekly trail race series like Catamount Outdoor Center has from May to September.

Alex —

1. Sleep
2. Drink plenty of water
3. Eat well…monitor sodium variances
4. Strength train stabilizing muscles and core/back
5. Find rhythm through your breath…and don't forget to share the path!

Mariva —

1. Foam Roll
2. Don't run hung over
3. Have fun while running
4. Stay motivated by telling yourself how awesome you are
5. Tell everyone you know that you are training for a marathon!

We asked you to send us your photos of you running in the rain. Here are our Facebook friends Greta and Kara!

Have photos of you wearing your Portland Marathon Grimm shirt? Send them our way on Facebook for our next newsletter.

Run the Czech Republic – start with Prague!

Seven races, five cities, one beautiful country – RunCzech.com Running Circuit offers high quality races in some of the most enchanting places of the Czech Republic, giving a chance to combine both – running and traveling. Where to start? Hit the road in Czech capital Prague:

6 April 2013 Hervis Prague Half Marathon – awarded with the IAAF Gold Label It is the largest RunCzech.com race and the fastest Half Marathon in the world so far. Flat and fast course leading through the marvelous historical centre is one of the many reasons why this race is sold out months in advance. Don't miss your chance!

May 12, 2013 Volkswagen Prague Marathon another Golden race that attracts over 9000 athletes from 83 countries excited to cross the famous Charles Bridge – arguably the most beautiful Gothic bridge in the world. First timers friendly 7 hours' time limit allows to slow down and enjoy all the breath-taking sights along the way! And did we mention all the fun, dance and music shows throughout the course?

For registration and more information visit: WWW.RUNCZECH.COM

Exclusive accommodation offers at WWW.RUNCZECHHOTELS.COM

Join us on Facebook!

Be cool. Stay warm with your Portland Marathon gear.

Check out our new and improved store. Training shirts and gear make great stocking stuffers and holiday gifts.

portlandmarathon.org/store

Looking for a gift for someone who has everything?

Give the gift of a Marathon or a Half Marathon! One for you and one for them. Commit to running or walking together on October 6, 2013. A great way to improve health and lose weight in the New Year. Register now at portlandmarathon.org/register-now/ OR give them a gift certificate for an entry. Gift certificates are available here: Click Here

www.portlandmarathon.org

Where did you wear your shirt?

See more photos by visiting portlandmarathon.org/information/history/wdywys/wdywys-gallery/

Sascha at Toque Pequeno Beach in Brazil

Abbie running the Girlfriends Half Marathon in Vancouver

Andy wearing his shirt at a Jets vs. Seahawks game

Frank in Shanghai on The Bund

One week after the PDX Marathon, my husband and I headed to China for a 10-day vacation. This is us on The Great Wall near Beijing. We have done the marathon the past 3 years with Team In Training.

Skye and Joe Weadick

Alpenrose Dairy is a Proud Product Partner of The Portland Marathon!

2012 participants enjoyed delicious chocolate milk this year from the local dairy at the finish line.

This holiday season visit the Storybook Lane at Alpenrose Dairy, where magic makes memories. Storybook Lane features a holiday gift shop, bakery, concessions, train displays and is free for the entire family. Visit www.alpenrose.com for more details.

Thanks for your support!

Portland Marathon Goes the Distance for Charities

Over the years the Portland Marathon, a 501(c)3, has made independent donations from its general fund to a variety of local charities and organizations. Additionally, through the Marathon Direct Giving Program, many direct donations are given to our volunteer groups.

The Portland Marathon recruits over 4,500 volunteers annually to assist with our event. Our volunteer program has served as a vehicle for providing school and organizational credit and experience for a host of local charities, nonprofits, sport, school and service clubs.

It also provides a wonderful sense of community for so many who come to Portland to participate in the events of the Portland Marathon. Volunteer teams have fun, work together and benefit from being involved in a great community event. The Direct Giving Program provides an ability to earn not only experience, but also a donation for volunteering.

This unique program is based on the concept of utilizing available financial resources that come in to the Portland Marathon for another charity or organization, which in turn then helps another charity, organization or worthwhile cause. The Portland Marathon has been fortunate to be sufficiently funded so that we have been able to allocate a certain percentage of our resources to this program each year.

The Portland Marathon is a charitable community event supported by the city, sponsors, and also by other charitable groups. Each year the funds available to us vary. However, giving the funds is a pleasure for us because we really do see it benefiting many other worthwhile projects. Each year we have many success stories shared with us on how the program continues to benefit others.

For more information, visit:
portlandmarathon.org/charities/going-the-distance-foundation

Examples of organizations that have participated and benefited by their participation in the program are:

• A.C. E. International
• A.S.O. International
• Adopt A Minefield
• Aloha HS Leadership
• Beaverton Blaze Girls Softball Team
• Beta Sigma Phi-Eta Theta Chapter
• Blue Back Submarine Council, US Navy League
• Boy Scout Troops
• Charity Bolivia
• Clackamas County Dog 4H Club
• Clackamas HS
• Cleveland HS
• Creston School PTA
• Explorer Post #58
• Families Supporting Independence Inc
• Forest Grove HS Cross Country Team
• Forest Grove HS Grad Night
• Girl Scout Troops
• "Girls On The Go"
• Gladstone Jr Baseball Assn
• Gladstone HS Swim Team
• Glencoe HS Cross Country Team
• Glencoe HS Lacrosse Team
• Happy Valley Middle School
• Horizon Christian HS Hawks
• Lincoln HS
• McNary HS Cheerleaders
• Metro Gymnastic Girls Booster Club
• MAC Swim Team
• Oregon City HS
• Open Meadows Alternative Schools
• Oregon Silver Bullets
• Oregon Sports Authority Foundation
• P:ear, Inc.
• Portland Waldorf School
• Prairie HS National Honor Society
• Reynolds HS Water Polo & Swim Team
• Rex Putnam HS Senior Party
• Ridgefield HS Concert Chior
• Ross Island Early Risers Kiwanis
• Tigard Students "SPOTS"
• St. Mary Academy HS
• Sprague HS Cheerleaders
• Spring Creek Sproingers 4- H Club
• Sunset High School Non-Alcoholic Grad Party
• Three Rivers Charter School
• Theft Talk Counseling Services, Inc.
• The Greater Portland Area Costumers Guild Team
• Tualatin Hills United Soccer Club/U14 Sodium
• Tualatin Presbyterian Church Youth Group
• WSA Xplosion Girls Soccer Team
• XI Alpha Pi International Sorority Group
• Zeta Chi Sorority

October 6, 2013 will mark the 42nd Annual Portland Marathon! We have 83 entertainment groups at 53 locations along the course. Each year more than 12,000 people run, walk, or volunteer with the event. Proceeds from the Portland Marathon go to help local schools, charities, and non-profits. The event has been called the "best-organized marathon in North America" and has received national attention for being one of the first eco-friendly, "green" marathons.