Kavan also had the day off from school and was able to accompany me to my friends' little get together, conveniently positioned at mile 23 of the race. Watching the marathon was such a thrilling experience! All that stood between us and the runners was a little aluminum fence. Of course a race isn't much of a race without heartbreak and drama.
Kim Smith had an unprecedented lead. At one point she was almost a full minute in front of the others. She made it all the way to mile 18 when she injured her calf muscle and was forced to drop out at mile 20. That wasn't all..... Desiree Davila almost became the first American woman to win the marathon in 15 years! She was neck and neck with her Kenyan opponent, and sprinted to the lead a couple of times in the last quarter mile only to lose by seconds at the finish line. The men's race was also close with the top two runners beating the world record. Here's a good article if you want to learn more: http://www.boston.com/sports/marathon/articles/2011/04/19/early_leader_smith_is_roped_in_by_calf_woes
I managed to get some pretty cool pictures with my sports setting, which acts as if my camera has turrets.
Desiree Davila in the lead, followed by the winner.
The men's world record holder in Marathon running!
There were so many runners! I think in total there were about ~20k. They were very interactive with the fans. They high-fived, posed for the camera, gave kisses, and even grabbed food and drink that was hanging too far over the railing. This video from the Globe really captures the essence of the race.
One marathon convention that I didn't know about was the COSTUMES. Some of the best were the bearded ballerina, burgerman, a high-fiving gorilla (whose hand was really sweaty :P ) aaaand a sultan! I am definitely making Marathon Monday my tradition.
