This entry has been added for Susan Mazzeo who was the author of this post.
This past Sunday, October 18, saw the inaugural running of the Asbury Park Relay marathon. There were two options in this event, to run as a relay team with up to eight runners or to run as a team of one and complete the 26.2 eight loop course on your own.
Runners woke to a blustery, rainy day. But it didn't matter, these hardy souls came to run, a little rain and wind wasn't going to stand in their way.
The race started on Ocean Avenue beside the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel and the transition area was inside the Arcade area in front of Convention Hall, so spectators and teammates not only had a great vantage point, but could stay warm and dry while watching and waiting for their runner/walker.
The finish line was moved inside and I had the privilege of working it with Chuck Payette.
The first to come across was Team FRNY, an open male team with four teammates who each ran two loops. The final runner came sprinting across the line, arms pumping in the air. The roar of the crowd was deafening. His teammates were all around the finish line to welcome him. It was a little tight since we were close to the doors and Chuck and I weren't sure if we were going to have to break his stride, but he stopped in time.
The first military team over the line was our very own Lt. Col. Mike Melso and his marines who handily beat the other military team in their category.
Team Vonage, headed by FAHA member Karen McKay came in fifth place in their category. They all quickly retired to the Wonderbar to celebrate their accomplishment with beer and wings.
One runner completed her 50 state journey with the APRM. She even stopped to put on a costume before she rounded the corner to the finish line.
I saw many teams meet their last runner at the doors to the Arcade area and run the last few yards in together, holding hands held high in the air.
But I think my favorite runner of the day was the woman who came across the line at 3:59:46. She wanted to break four hours and she did. She stood there speechless and then she burst out crying. I gave her a big hug and we let her husband put her medal around her neck.
Truly an amazing day! The weather only added that much more to the runner's accomplishment. To complete a marathon is a huge accomplishment in itself, to do it in those kind of conditions is really something special.
Congratulations to all the runners and walkers who competed. I look forward to another amazing day next year.
Does anyone else have any memories / comments on this race?