Guestbook

Thank you for visiting our pages. Below are some comments that have been e

TEST TEST
RYan <Test>
- Wednesday, July 14, 2004 at 22:17:04 (EDT)

Excellent job! Forget the idea of a half marathon--DC needs a Spring alternative to the mob-scene that is MCM! I ran the 2002 DC Marathon and loved it (except when that British guy verbally and physically assaulted me on the course (see http://www.woohoo.org/microfracture-marathons.htm). Thanks for keeping this race alive and good luck with the planning!
Steve Woo <presidiorx at yahoo.com>
San Francisco, CA USA - Wednesday, October 15, 2003 at 02:53:12 (EDT)

I just found out about this wonderful last-minute save by the runners and supporters in the DC area! Bravo DCRRs, volunteers, un-official sponsors! That's what a Running Community can do!
jeanne <jeannelouwho at yahoo.com>
Gambrills, MD USA - Sunday, October 12, 2003 at 19:47:41 (EDT)

Thanks for trying to take on organizing an official 2004 Marathon. I ran in the 2002 DC Marathon and was a spectator at the 2003 "unofficial" DC marathon. I hope lots of people send notes to the Mayor supporting the race and the proposed new organizers!
Anne Pastorkovich
DCRRC/PVTC/Washington RunHers, USA - Tuesday, August 19, 2003 at 15:32:08 (EDT)

I got my medal in the mail yesterday. It's awesome! Thank you so much! If you're interested I wrote an article about the un-DCM in the current issue of Florida Running and Triathlon. Click here: http://www.flrunning.com/features/07-11-03DC_marathon.html
Don Gworek <rn at snagson1.com>
Orlando, FL USA - Thursday, July 24, 2003 at 08:19:30 (EDT)

Since the initial notification concerning the DC unofficial marathon medals, I have not heard anything or received my finisher medal. Anybody heard any updates?
T Schnarrs <tschnarrs at cox.net>
Fairfax, VA USA - Wednesday, July 09, 2003 at 16:03:00 (EDT)

I have received the letter from the bankruptcy court. I only speak a little english. can anybody help me? Please if somebody tell me (in spanish) all that we have write in the letter to send to the court again, thank you Sorry for my english
Carlos Garcia Olivas <cgol.integra at dragados.com>
Madrid, España - Tuesday, June 10, 2003 at 13:37:32 (EDT)

Thanks to everyone who made it possible to run this marathon on my 60th birthday. It was truly better organised than some of the official events I've run in.Maybe the community can do it next year. This was te premier event of 25 years of running.
Robert CAllahan <rjc at floodcity.net>
Johnstown, PA USA - Thursday, April 24, 2003 at 22:00:10 (EDT)

I just got the cryptic letter from US Bankruptcy Couert concerning H20's bankruptcy filing. I can't read legalese (it puts me to sleep!) I can't figure out whether the letter is telling me not to file a claim, or instructing me how to do it. Could someone with some legal experience please enlighten the rest of us about what to do with the letter? Thanks!
Anne Johnson <aec4 at cornell.edu>
Tucson, AZ USA - Saturday, April 19, 2003 at 13:00:54 (EDT)

I was looking so forward to the DC Marathon this year, it would have been my first marathon. However, due to the 3 feet of snow we received here in Denver, my plane was cancelled and I was unable to make the trip. However, after reading about the "Unofficial DC Marathon" I am so disappointed I was not able to take part in it. Training in the Colorado winter was hard and it would have been great to reward myself with such a great unoffical marathon. My friends in DC have been keeping me up to date on what has been happening with the marathon and the organizers. Thanks for a great website and congratulations on a great race. The website just shows that with people working together even a huge event like a marathon can take place. And congratulations to all the runners, supporters and fans who were able to make the race and make it the success it was.
Sarah Simmons <sarahs33 at hotmail.com>
Denver, CO USA - Tuesday, April 15, 2003 at 18:23:46 (EDT)

I guess I should have consulted today's paper before posting to the Guestbook. H2O has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A19889-2003Apr13.html
Karen Lee <klee at aed.org>
USA - Monday, April 14, 2003 at 14:16:52 (EDT)

Apparently, both phone and fax for H2O have been disconnected. Anybody know the bottom line on what happened after all of this?
Karen Lee <klee at aed.org>
Washington, DC USA - Monday, April 14, 2003 at 14:02:21 (EDT)

I am so proud of all of you, especially Lorrin Harvey.
Karen K. Kilcoyne <karen at kkkilcoyne.com>
Delanco, NJ United States - Thursday, April 03, 2003 at 21:05:57 (EST)

I am almost in tears - the generousity of the people involved in the "unofficial" D.C. marathon keeps shining through! I am so proud and honored to be a park of such a great community and to have participated in such an unbelievable event. I am from Minnesota - I struggled through a harsh winter of training while simultaneously struggling through my first year of law school. I am so grateful that I had the opportunity to run in the "unofficial" D.C. marathon - and so honored to be a part of such a generous community. The "unofficial" D.C. Marathon was my second marathon, but by far, the best experience that I will ever have in my running career. It was/is truly a testiment to the kind-hearted nature of runners and to all of the people who supported us along the way - fans, police, volunteers, & vendors,you all made it worth the run! THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!
Sarah Peterson Stensrud <pete0746 at umn.edu>
Minneapolis, MN USA - Thursday, April 03, 2003 at 11:34:34 (EST)

The Marathon in the Parks is donating finisher medals to all who ran the 26.2 miles in our "unofficial race. To order a medal, please visit: https://www.racepacket.com/unoff.htm
Bob Platt <bob at racepacket.com>
Arlington, VA USA - Thursday, April 03, 2003 at 00:10:03 (EST)

A big Thank You to everybody who helped out in making this splendid event happen!! It looks like we don't need any "official" marathons anymore in this city, if a group of passionate, determined and defiant individuals can stage such an amazing event. May the 2003 "unofficial" marathon become the 2004 "official" one. This was my first marathon and I am proud to belong to such a distinguished and special group of runners with whom I had the privilege of running. I am looking forward to next year and hope that H2O will do the right thing and refund the entry fees. If anyone has any information about the potential class action law suit against H2O, I would appreciate it. Cheers.
Holger Wagner <wagnerhd at yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, April 01, 2003 at 20:04:23 (EST)

Thank you so much to the volunteers and organizers who made this marathon happen. This was my first marathon and it meant so much to me to be able to run after months of training. Your sprirt and enthusiasm carried me through all 26.2 miles!
Liz Lapon <lizlapon at hotmail.com>
Washington, DC USA - Tuesday, April 01, 2003 at 17:19:35 (EST)

Well, Jim had trained for a race, but when he heard that it had been cancelled he left his running shoes at home and we came to DC to visit his brother and spend some time on the Maryland beaches, if the weather permitted. Saturday night, when he heard on the news that there would be an unofficial race, he decided to put on his old sneakers and start the race as a way of supporting it. Brother Jack and I dragged out the old bicycles so that we could support the runners, and we all got to the start line on time. Well, Jim had so much fun he forgot to drop out after a few miles as he had planned, and Jack and I rode almost the whole course with him. What fun!!! We never could have done it together in a "real" marathon. The world's longest "fun run" sure was fun for us.
Sue Paulsen <msusanp at aol.com>
Jericho, VT USA - Tuesday, April 01, 2003 at 17:17:05 (EST)

I was one of the international runners, and I was also very grateful that the organisers and volunteers gave up their time and resourses to ensure that the un-official run could happen. This event truly showed the indomitable spirit of the running community in general, and Washington in particular. I also finally found a way to sleep on a trans-atlantic flight - run a marathon, shower, and get on the plane! P.S. I echo the thoughts of an earlier entry - would it be possible for whoever arranged the t-shirts to get some medals available for purchase?
Andrew Hayward <andrew.hayward at aleagroup.com>
London, England - Tuesday, April 01, 2003 at 04:06:37 (EST)

After four months of training, I traveled from Puerto Rico to run the Washington DC Marathon the day of my 50th birthday and was completely disharted to learn upon arrival that it was cancelled. Later I learned thru the newspaper what you people were going to do, and by GOD, I had to be there. THANK YOU for an outstanding job to organizers and volunteers. You all saved my BIRTHDAY and my vacations.
Carmelo Fuentes <cfuentes at centennialpr.net>
San Juan, PR USA - Monday, March 31, 2003 at 19:10:23 (EST)

What a great first marathon for both of us! We traveled from Tennessee on the Thursday before the race and debated about going when we heard the race was canceled. We are sure glad we went! We heard about the unofficial race while browsing in a museum gift shop that had the public radio show with Bob S. playing in the background. We huddled against the radio speaker to hear the details and then jumped and yelled with joy, receiving strange looks from other folks in the shop. Hooray for public radio, the volunteers, the organizers, and the great people of D.C. (especially all the kids who gave us high fives as we ran past)! We can't make it back up there for the Happy Hour, but have a brew for us!
Michelle Prysby and John Woodell <junk at ideastochangetheworld.org>
Alcoa, TN USA - Monday, March 31, 2003 at 18:33:52 (EST)

My thanks to the organizers and volunteers, it was my first marathon and I think it was the most fun I have ever had while being in such pain. It was a testament to the character of America in the face of terrorism and injustice.
Mitch Hamele <mthamele at yahoo.com>
Silver Spring, MD USA - Monday, March 31, 2003 at 17:54:07 (EST)

THANK YOU! I travelled with family to DC (from Florida) on Tue only to find out Wed that the race had been cancelled. Needless to say, my spirts were low. However, the rumors of an unofficial running slowly began lifting those spirits. The folks at Fleet Feet (thank you for taking my call and answering all my questions!)confirmed those rumors and I was ready to run. What a great event. I feel blessed to have run in such a quality event and the voluteer support was amazing and outstanding. Since this is a public site, I'll refrain from giving you my H2O salute, but your imagination can paint the picture. Thank you volunteers!
Scott Millson
Winter Park, FL USA - Monday, March 31, 2003 at 12:49:51 (EST)

This race will be legendary - a runner's Woodstock. Years from now we will be saying "Yes, I was there!". All possible because of the race organizers and volunteers, including PICnet. Thanks for pulling it together.
Carl Swanson <swansonc at hhmi.org>
Vienna, VA USA - Monday, March 31, 2003 at 12:36:44 (EST)

Good hustle people. Well staffed event. I had an awesome time !!!!
Evan + Clara <eph109 at yahoo.com>
Fairfax, VA USA - Monday, March 31, 2003 at 12:03:01 (EST)

I was so happy to have my friend Sue send this website info. I don't run, never have; but felt so bad for everyone that I went to Costco and bought pretzels, oreos and fig newtons and set them up in front of my house to do what I could to support you all. What a wonderful day..you all are an inspiration to me plus you were so appreciative of us. Congrats on a great event!
Lenay Gore <lgore at mpgav.com>
Washington , DC USA - Monday, March 31, 2003 at 11:56:21 (EST)

Thanks so much to the organizers and all the volunteers of the Unofficial D.C. Marathon. The official marathon was cancelled the day after I had already arrived in D.C. from Iowa, so to say the least, I was very grateful when "the people" stepped up and organized the marathon anyway. Thanks!
Sharla Derksen <shrldrks at dordt.edu>
Sioux Center, IA USA - Monday, March 31, 2003 at 11:21:41 (EST)

I am so pleased that you all got out there and did this! Out with a broken leg but my heart was with you all! Coach Bob
Coach Bob <BKL5220 at starpower.net>
Washington, DC USA - Monday, March 31, 2003 at 08:59:56 (EST)

It was a beautiful day to be outside in DC. Like most everyone out there I had trained throughout this winter for the marathon on March 23 and I want to thank each and every person who was involved in putting together one of the most enjoyable marathons I have ever did. Even though I had bronchitis and it took all I had to make it across the finish line in my WTE (worst time ever), I am so glad I decided to go the distance.
Janet Krones <jkrones at direcway.>
USA - Monday, March 31, 2003 at 08:34:21 (EST)

Corrections or additions to the race results are still welcomed. Please email me.
Bob Platt <bob at racepacket.com>
Washington, DC USA - Monday, March 31, 2003 at 04:35:26 (EST)

I heard the interview with THERESE CLUCK on ONLY A GAME this morning on NPR, and was very impressed with her and the organizers and the runners of this race. Thank you for such an inspiring and encouraging story of a "popular uprising"!!! I just did my first 5 mile race last weekend in Cleveland and loved it.
mary alice <haber-helfrich at mindspring>
cleveland, oh USA - Saturday, March 29, 2003 at 20:08:55 (EST)

As others have commented, this will be my most memorable marathon ever. The volunteers, the police, and the race organizers can live their lives knowing they contributed to a remarkable event. From a personal perspective, I carried with me the pictures of two friends serving in the Middle East. I was going to run the race for them no matter what, but to have such great company, including my new running buddy Chip Langston, was an extraordinary experience.
Michael Milone <MMilone at aol.com>
Placitas, NM USA - Saturday, March 29, 2003 at 18:59:31 (EST)

H2O didn't show... BUT WE DID!! Hats off to the volunteers and especially the organizers. I loved it every time a car pulled up and threw down their tailgate to let the water and gatorade and encouragement flow. This was truly the people's marathon. The DC running community is the best. This has inspired me to finally send in my DCRRC dues and to start volunteering at events.
Steve Glazerman <glaze at myway.com>
Washington, DC USA - Saturday, March 29, 2003 at 17:44:44 (EST)

I'm on the opposite side of the continent. But as a marathoner, I really appreciate what you have done for the running community. You helped and supported far more runners than the 350 that ran. Thanks.
David Hays <dhays at davidhays.net>
University Place, WA USA - Saturday, March 29, 2003 at 16:08:29 (EST)

What an impressive race! My hat goes off to the "top notch" organizers, volunteers and spectators! H2O could learn a thing or two from you! I know everyone was "disappointed" (to say the least) that the "Official" race was cancelled but you came through and made it all possible! Take a bow!
Kathy Streeter <kathleen.streeter at shawpittman.com>
Washington, DC USA - Friday, March 28, 2003 at 12:03:03 (EST)

It was like the Grinch. The Terrorism that stole the marathon. But the runners in runnerville came together to celebrate anyway! The song might be, "Curb-up, Curb-down. Curb-up, Curb-down. Welcome, runners, what a great day! Welcome, welcome. Stop light, stop sign. Finish line is in our grasp, so long as we have water to clasp." Thank you so much for a truly terrific event! I've told many friends to look at the "How it came together" web page. We greatly admire your running community's teamwork and friendship. Thank you so much!
Don Gworek <rn at snagson1.com>
Orlando, FL USA - Friday, March 28, 2003 at 07:10:40 (EST)

FYI - I have friends that heard about our 'unofficial' race in Thailand and China!! :)
kim hedge <kimsjourney2 at yahoo.com>
WDC, USA - Thursday, March 27, 2003 at 12:20:28 (EST)

I want to say thanks to the organizers who did a fantastic job putting this together at short notice. Thanks to the people who gave up their time to help out at water stations and direct us runners along the course. The atmosphere generated by the runners and supporters was the best i have experienced. Thanks to the Hash House Harriers for the beer at mile 21, it was much needed! I was a coach for the first time training group organized by H2O. I was so mad that my runners who trained through snow, ice and rain where denied their chance to run an official marathon. In the future i will not be running the Miami marathon or any other event which is organized by H2O.
Paul Davies <phmpad at gwumc.edu>
Montgomery Village, MD USA - Thursday, March 27, 2003 at 11:11:43 (EST)

As I read all these comments, I continue to be elated about my son Adam and I running the "unofficial" DC Marathon. It was Adam's first marathon and my seventh. It was so special for me to run our first marathon together. When the race was cancelled, I was so upset. We decided to run and not be concerned with our time. Adam arrived from Oregon Friday night to run this race with his mother. Can you believe that? A college student spending his spring break with his mother. What else can I say, he is wonderful! As Adam said this was OFFICIAL in his book. Thank you all, the experience was wonderful!
Mary Mohr <mmoh at loc.gov>
Hyattsville, MD USA - Thursday, March 27, 2003 at 10:17:23 (EST)

Congratulations. It is wonderful that you went ahead and had the "Unofficial" marathon. Our daughter was one of the ones who participated. We are proud her, and of all of you. Thanks.
Phil Baker <philbaker63 at hotmail.com>
Columbia, SC USA - Thursday, March 27, 2003 at 09:20:28 (EST)

A quick note about refunds for the entry fees. Most credit card companies have a clause in the contract about services being rendered for payment. Since no service was rendered, you are entitled to a refund. Simply call your credit card company(if you paid online) and request a refund and they will dispute it with H2O directly. VISA and Mastercard have not had a problem with processing this and have actually been quite helpful. On a more positive note, Thank you all the volunteers, coordinators, runners, and members of the DC community for an amzing run. I have never ran a race before that had so much support and genuine goodwill in it. Goes to prove that it is the runners that make a race great and not the organizers. Congratulations to all finishers and let's make our voices heard and keep the marathon here for next year.
Scott Ruplinger <srup at gwu.edu>
Washington, DC USA - Wednesday, March 26, 2003 at 15:50:42 (EST)

This was an amazing Marathon! I would like to thank the DC running clubs organizers, volunteers, and cheering crowd... I hope you will have it next year 2004. I at least got something for my H2O entry fee and training in preparing for this race in preparation for Boston Marathon that will not be cancelled. Great job to all!
Maurice Davidson <mdavid3042 at msn.com>
Fredericksburg, VA USA - Wednesday, March 26, 2003 at 11:26:52 (EST)

I ran the "inaugural" DC Marathon last year as my personal inaugural marathon so I felt a bit of a connection. I was sad to hear it was cancelled this year but what a rush reading the stories of the "unofficial" event!! What an inspiration! What a show of grass roots organization! What a tribute to America! Way to go runners!
John Intorcio <John at Intorcio.org>
North Reading, MA United States - Wednesday, March 26, 2003 at 10:48:26 (EST)

THANK YOU! This was my first marathon. It broke my heart when it was cancelled - but what a blessing to have been trained and ready to run in this amazing marathon. THANK YOU!
Heather Cameron <heatherpcameron at hotmail.com>
Gaithersburg, MD USA - Wednesday, March 26, 2003 at 10:24:23 (EST)

Way to go you guys! Pretty gutsy move to stage the race in spite of the cancellation -- and pull it off so successfully. Your news coverage was terrific -- especially given the competition with news programming from the Middle East. I'm sure those who travelled hundreds (even thousands) of miles to participate really appreciated your efforts. Way to go Kim!
Mike Hedge <mhedge at hedgeco.com>
Southfield, MI USA - Wednesday, March 26, 2003 at 09:49:17 (EST)

Well done to all who took part. I admire your resourcefulness and the fact that you took back the race for yourselves. Congrats!
Mick Rice <mickricenet at netscape.net>
Dublin, Ireland - Wednesday, March 26, 2003 at 09:16:36 (EST)

This was my first marathon--THANK YOU VOLUNTEERS! It was such an awesome experience! My mom, who is battling cancer, really wanted to see me finish my first thon. She flew from the midwest to see this race, I was coming from NY (where I trained in really COLD weather all winter). We were both pretty bummed when the race was cancelled. Imagine our surprise and delight when you all organized the UNofficial race! It was wonderful, you did a wonderful job. Thank you again, so much, from the bottom of both our hearts!
Melinda <alwiki at capital.net>
Schenectady, NY USA - Wednesday, March 26, 2003 at 05:49:38 (EST)

I was set to run the marathon. I was a bit nervous about it beforehand, but was willing to go anyway. Congratulations to all who ran. Wish I could have been there.
Mary <mburnsprine at womenrunners.com>
San Diego, CA USA - Wednesday, March 26, 2003 at 00:58:34 (EST)

I am so proud of all of you!!! I cried when I read the post at runnersworld.com of a woman who ran this race! Congrats to the runners and a big THANKS to the volunteers who made it possible!
Melissa <mel_10k at yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN USA - Tuesday, March 25, 2003 at 21:18:56 (EST)

I am so proud of you guys, I am proud to say I am a runner. You guys are a throw back to the old days or running, when you didn't need champion chip timing, big prize money,race packets, You just ran. Congratulations to all, especially the volunteers
Kevin Lavelle <ekinkevin at hotmail.com>
East Stroudsburg, PA USA - Tuesday, March 25, 2003 at 19:34:08 (EST)

Everyone involved in getting the Unoffical Marathon up and running gets a big round of thanks from this runner. I trained hard during this winter and was out in the elements more that I probably should have been. I was real angry and I am still angry with H2O entertaiment for the action they took. When I saw the picnet.net was going to have the race anyway I was glad. It was the best birthday (#58 that day) present I've had in a while. and seeing my wife at the finish out the icing on the cake. Thanks once again. Challis Wilson
Challis Wilson <challisw at aol.com>
Laurel, Md USA - Tuesday, March 25, 2003 at 18:33:37 (EST)

As one of the organizers, I would like to say a special thanks to Ryan and the gang at Picnet for posting and doing the hard work of maintaining this website. It provided a way for people to find out about the race, and now it allows people to share their experiences. I wish I could have talked to every single runner, volunteer, police officer, Emergency Management worker, merchant who donated food or services, and resident who came out to the sidewalk to cheer. This web site gives us a taste of what it is all about. Thanks to everybody for joining together for such a positive experience! Continue to share that positive attitude in your meetings at work, in your classes at school, at home, on the bus and everywhere you go.
Bob Schneider <rjschneider76 at yahoo.com>
College Park, MD USA - Tuesday, March 25, 2003 at 18:23:48 (EST)

After running all winter in terrible conditions, my wife was devastated when she learned the marathon was cancelled. What could I do to remedy the situation? You guys came through in a BIG way -- she really got to experience what the last 6 miles of a marathon feels like. The level of support (water, food, gatorade) made me feel good that we would not get hurt while running the marathon. You guys covered the essentials and, quite honestly, it was a very rewarding experience getting through it. The traffic actually made it more challenging. My only regret was that there would be no shirt and finisher's medal. Thanks to whoever designed and made the T-shirts! Does anyone know a source of a generic marathon medal. I'd really like to surprise my wife by getting her a finisher's medal of some type. Thanks!
Duke Richardson <richardsonaz at earthlink.net>
Montclair , VA USA - Tuesday, March 25, 2003 at 14:43:57 (EST)

I was really surprised to see all the people at the start line when i arrived there. it was really great. i thank all the organizers, the sponsors, the volunteers and of course the runners. thanks for all the support. and see u next time.
Soufiane Laamime <lsbodyboards at aol.com>
arlington , VA Morocco - Tuesday, March 25, 2003 at 14:14:06 (EST)

I just want to add my thanks to the wonderful people who organized the "Unofficial DC Marathon" and to all the volunteers who were out on the course during Sunday's run. As a first time marathoner it meant so much to me to have the support along the way. I will proudly wear my t-shirt and remember the day for the rest of my life. THANK YOU!
Susan Kingsley <susanbertie at yahoo.com>
Alexandria, VA USA - Tuesday, March 25, 2003 at 13:49:49 (EST)

Big thanks to the volunteers, organizers, and sponsors for the 'unofficial' DC marathon. You made it possible for me to run my first marathon. I'm Finnish and after living in this country for almost five years this was one of the most positive experience I have had in USA. All I can say is thank you.
Aleksi Soininen
Washington, DC USA - Tuesday, March 25, 2003 at 13:33:32 (EST)

I must echo the sentiments of everyone who posted below. Thank you organizers, volunteers, and fellow runners who made Sunday a marathon I'll never forget. My pace was off, but I enjoyed myself and feel proud to have participated. The difference in this event was that everyone who was involved was passionate and dedicated to the event -- not selling a product or making money. That showed and made all the difference. A someone said below it was the "Runner's Marathon" Thanks again for a great marathon.
lisa <ladylisa13 at yahoo.com>
washington, dc USA - Tuesday, March 25, 2003 at 13:28:14 (EST)

Thanks for making my first marathon an experience my family and I will remember forever! The volunteers and fans were fantastic and the finish line was incredible:-) Thanks so much.
Courtney Gaine <brow32 at aol.com>
Bethesda, MD USA - Tuesday, March 25, 2003 at 11:24:46 (EST)

WOW!!! I'm Swedish and been living in the States for two years. To not take no for an answer, and to do it anyway, was definitely the greatest manifestation of the American spirit and the American entrepreneurship I have ever encountered. I haven’t said it before, but I say it now: God bless America!!! You did a fantastic job, helping me finishing my first Marathon. Thank you!!!
Matti Strauss <m.strauss at starpower.net>
Washington, DC USA - Tuesday, March 25, 2003 at 11:24:31 (EST)

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL!! After battling cancer for several months, my grandmother passed away the day before the marathon was canceled. Two days prior to her passing, she urged me to stay in DC and run the race, no matter what happened to her. When I found out the official race was off, I was devastated. I knew that I didn't need an official t-shirt, a bib, a time, or a finisher's medal...I just had to do 26.2 miles in memory of my grandma. We did it! Thanks to all of the volunteers and businesses that helped me realize my goal. I especially want to thank the members of the 11:30 pace group. Running with you was an honor and I look forward to the challenge of NJ on March 30th! DC is a fabulous city and I'm proud to call it home.
Heather Eckert
Washington, DC USA - Tuesday, March 25, 2003 at 10:43:19 (EST)

I came to DC from North Carolina to support my daughter, Lorrin. I was so impressed by the dedication, fortitude, courage and tenacity of runners and organizers. In addition to being an urban challenge course as the runners ran on sidewalks dodging SUV's and giant concrete security flowerpots, it was also a marathon that neighborhoods and people on the street could support by handing out water and urging the runners on! This was truly a "people's marathon".
Janet Harvey <wolfvision at aol.com>
Asheville, NC USA - Tuesday, March 25, 2003 at 10:01:23 (EST)

Thank you, thank you volunteers! Y'all put on a great race with only a few days to plan. Definitely the most memorable and meaningful race I've ever run. Thank you to the police and water/snack volunteers along the route. That popsicle around mile 22 was just what I needed!
Pete Doedens <doedens at mindspring.com>
Cumming, GA USA - Tuesday, March 25, 2003 at 09:27:37 (EST)

Overcoming adversity is what marathon is about. The race belongs to those who endure. What an inspiration all of you runners, "unofficial" organizers, and supporters are! God bless you.
Herschel and Yolanda Moore <herkyoli at netscape.net>
Houston, TX USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 23:17:18 (EST)

I was manning the "best water stop in the city" on Capitol Hill at mile 12 with one of my lovely students. Kudos to her for getting involved and to all the ever so polite runners for picking up their cups. Way to GO Tracy, you organized a great gig! See you at the Marine Corps, yeah right, at my water station that is.
Anna Krughoff <ankrug at hotmail.com>
Washington, DC, USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 21:59:55 (EST)

Huge thanks to all the volunteers and supporters who pulled this marathon together in such a short time. To me, their work and enthusiasm made this marathon an official one. I am a mother of two small children. This was my first marathon, and I didn't know when I would have the opportunity to run one again. It was a wonderful experience and was made all the more so for me because of the grassroots activism. Thank you.
Katherine Grubbs <KatherineGru at msn.com>
Silver Spring, MD USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 21:49:57 (EST)

I want to congratulate and thank all of the last-minute organizers and volunteers. My friend and I had arrived on Wednesday with our families and were devastated when we heard the race had been cancelled. What was momentarily a great disappointment, turned into an awesome experience -- thanks to all of you. I am proud to call the Un-Official DC Marathon my first marathon. I may run in bigger races in the future, but none will ever mean so much!
Kim Michael Cullen <sdkrush at earthlink.net>
Maitland, FL USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 21:19:59 (EST)

Thanks to all who made this race possible. It was my best marathon experience ever. Special thanks to the organizers and the volunteers who gave their time, effort and enthusiasm to pave the way for us runners!
Jeff Miller <jmiller at legalassets.com>
Arlington, VA USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 21:15:14 (EST)

I ran last year.This year was much better.The volunteers were fantastic.
David Mendick <d.mendick at verizon.net>
Olney, MD USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 20:29:51 (EST)

This race was well worth the plane ticket change fee. I'm amazed that the "unofficial organizers" were able to plan and execute a full marathon in only 3 days!! The food on the course and in the finish area were MUCH better than what they had at LA with 20,000 runners and lots more money. Thanks again to the Oreo Goddess near mile 22, to all the people who came out to cheer us on, and to the fantastic volunteers - you really accomplished a miracle!! Most of all, thanks to the organizers for having the courage to even attempt the feat, and for working your tails off for three days to make it happen!!
Anne Johnson <aec4 at cornell.edu>
Tucson, AZ USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 19:26:20 (EST)

I would also like to add my thanks to the "unofficial" organizers, volunters, DC police officers, residents and other supporters, not only for making this event happen, but also for making it such a WONDERFUL experience. I was supposed to be part of a 3-person relay team, so I only ran 11 miles, but the spirit of the day was so wonderful that I was tempted to run the whole thing. It was so much fun, that I hope there is another "unofficial" marathon next year. Thank you so much again!
Sue Arvo
Bethesda, MD USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 18:33:15 (EST)

Thanks to: the incredible organizers, the spirited fans, the folks holding the signs with the big arrows, all of the people at the amazing number of water stops, the woman handing out the very helpfully unwrapped snickers at Rock Creek and Virginia ave, the guy who gave me the advil at ~mile 21, the women handing out oranges on Capitol Hill. You all helped to make Sunday one of the most memorable days of my life. I suspect it was more fun than an "official" marathon (it was my first!) If we ever get our refund checks, I vote we spend the money at Fleet Feet and the other great businesses who lent support. Great work everyone.
Kelly Gauger <kellygauger at hotmail.com>
Washington, DC USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 18:18:04 (EST)

A big thanks to all the organizers, volunteers, and other runners. You all turned a demoralizing cancellation into an inspiration for running and carrying on in the face of adversity. THANKS!
Casey Connor <caseyconnor at yahoo.com>
Washington, DC USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 17:27:28 (EST)

This marathon was as well organised as any race i've ever done. Thankyou so much to all the organisers, volunteers, and supporters. Its amazing that such a great event was pulled together in so little time....and for free! Can we do it again next year? with no H2O!
Sarah McAllister <sarahmcallister2001 at yahoo.com>
alexandria, VA USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 16:57:19 (EST)

I volunteered at the water station at mile 3 (going forward) and mile 24.5 (on the return). It was a fabulous experience!! Big kudos to the race organizers and volunteers for pulling off a spectacular event in such a short amount of time. I'll be running my first marathon next weekend and I can't tell you how inspiring it was to watch all of the runners get to run their race yesterday. Congrats to all of the runners who participated --what a great race experience for all of you!!
Susan Lausch <smlausch at hotmail.com>
Alexandria, VA USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 16:54:51 (EST)

I just wanted to add my thanks to the unoffical race organizers and volunteers. My friends and I trained throught the cold Chicago winter to run the marathon as a two man relay. We planed to go ahead and run the last half of the course anyhow after the cancellation. We were really happy to find out about the unoffical race! Thanks again to everyone for the support!
Jennifer Koblinski <jkoblinski at hotmail.com>
Chicago, IL USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 16:16:06 (EST)

Thanks to all the people who made posibble i run in washington. I only came to run the Washington DC marathon, and when i heard that it was cancelled, i did not know what i had to do. I want to thank to all te people who help me, I' d lke to know there names, but i wouldn`t. Thank specially to fleet feet people, to the volunters, to the runners,... Sorry for my english, i only speak a little. If any body could say me something about the devolution or no of the feeof the marathon, or the actions to take in case of reclamation. Thank you very much Muchas gracias a todos por hacer posible que mi viaje para correr el maraton de washington haya sido posible. Cuando escuche que el oficial estaba cancelado me sentí realmente cabreado, muchos meses de entreno, un viaje muy largo desde España, y resulta que lo cancelan. Por suerte me entere que se organizaba el maraton, y pude al menos hacer un maraton en Washington. Quisiera agradecer especialmente a las personas de Fleet fet, que me ayudaron antes (durante la reunion del viernes), durante (Gracias Jay por nuestro rato de conversacion durante la carrera) y despues, por todo lo que hicisteis. Y a aquellas otras personas que me ayudaron, pero de las que no se el nombre, solo MUCHAS GRACIAS del spanish runner. Gracias a todos.
Carlos Garcia Olivas <cgol.integra at dragados.com>
Madrid, Spain - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 15:45:50 (EST)

To those of you who made yesterday's Unofficial DC Marathon happen, thank you. You made all the training and hard work worth it, you helped me finish another marathon with a PR, and turned my dream into an awesome reality. I love being a runner. Thank you!
Katie Mays
Fairfax, VA USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 15:42:09 (EST)

I will never be able to thank you and all the volunteers that made my dream come true today by running my first marathon. I trained for 7 months and was shocked by the cancellation of H2O. What you did was incredible. Thanks to you, I was able to run my first marathon in our great city. the organization was terrific and the run awesome. Everybody was very friendly among runners and on the streets. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR WHAT YOU DID !!!
Francois <coursault at starpower.net>
Bethesda, MD USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 14:56:35 (EST)

Thank you for providing for the best race I have ever participated in. It was a beautiful day in so many ways--you have restored my faith in humanity!
Kara Dougherty
- Monday, March 24, 2003 at 14:23:38 (EST)

Thank you to all the organizers and wonderful volunteers for making the "Unoffical DC Marathon" a huge success. I had a ball! The entire experience of the days leading up to the race and then running it on Sunday was truly unique and fulfilling. Thanks again!
Doug Ness <douglas_ness at hotmail.com>
Chicago, IL USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 14:18:42 (EST)

I ran this marathon last year, and I must say I am disappointed in the race management. While I did not register for the 2003 marathon, I commend and congratulate all runners who braved the streets of DC. You all embody the marathoning spirit. Race management made a huge error, and the runners did not give up! Kudos to you! A message to the race management- I will not be registering for this marathon again. There are too many quality marathons out there, why waste my money on this one? GREAT JOB TO ALL THE RUNNERS WHO TOUGHED IT OUT! CONGRATS!
Melissa S <Melissa.Swonger at BankofAmerica.com>
Charlotte, NC USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 14:07:32 (EST)

Congrats to the DC runners for completing the Un-Official DC Marathon. My friends and I (who trained through the brutal Michigan winter for the race) would have been there if we didn't cancel our flight & hotel before hearing about it. Way to go! I wish I could have been there!
Brian Amer <brianamer at yahoo.com>
Ann Arbor, MI USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 14:05:02 (EST)

I cannot tell you how proud I was to be part of this event. It was my first marathon, and after training for months in the bitter cold, I was crushed when the race was cancelled. But to take part in yesterday's race, and and to witness the generosity, kindness and and open-handedness shown by those who organized and staged the event, restored some of my faith in mankind. People actually came out of their homes to give us water and oranges, as well as cheering us on. And the volunteers -- I just can't say how much their extraordinary efforts meant to those who ran. So thank you, thank you, thank you to all of you, and I'll never even know your names, for being part of a day I'll never forget. Yours, John Bresnahan
John Bresnahan <jjb at rollcall.com>
Washington, DC USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 13:44:49 (EST)

Iam very grateful to all the volunteers and organizers of the race.I flew 2000 miles from Puerto Rico,and no one was going to stop me from running.DC and its people are great!
Jaime L Ortiz <jimmyent at yahoo.com>
Juana Diaz, PR USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 13:20:29 (EST)

Many thanks to the organizers and incredibly dedicated volunteers who kept shifting themselves around the course to staff keep water stocked and everybody's spirits high. This was my first marathon, and I wouldn't have known before last week what a let-down a cancellation could be. Thanks so much for giving everybody a chance to run on Saturday with lots of support. We are very grateful.
David Smyth <davidsmyth33 at hotmail.com>
Washington, DC USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 13:19:51 (EST)

Big Ups to the Unofficial DC Marathon! It was a fantastic race, a fantastic day, and i think all of us runners are proud to have been a part of an "event". Thank you to all who organized this race.
Will Arbuckle <arbuckle at sas.upenn.edu>
Philadelphia, PA USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 13:04:31 (EST)

I too would like to offer my heart felt thanks for all the wonderful organizers and volunteers that made Sunday the most memorable marathon I've ever run. The most incredible moment was walking up to the staging area Sunday morning and seeing so many people preparing for the marathon. And the spirit and energy of the runners was unbelievelably high all day. I especially enjoyed the conversations I shared along the way with kindred spirits, who would not be denied our reward for months of hard, wet, and cold training and the countless sacrifices we made along the way. The water, candy, fruit, and encouragement we received from people all along the course were tremendous. Thank you all for saving the marathon.
Glenn Dubin <grdubin at yahoo.com>
Washington, DC USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 12:40:04 (EST)

Big thanks to all the organizers and volunteers, and CONGRATULATIONS to everyone who persevered and ran the marathon despite its official cancellation. I opted for a traffic-free option (I ran the route many times during training, and wanted a "no stoplight" time at least once) and ran along the C&O canal with 6 other people, but we were all thinking of you guys. Kudos to Fleet Feet, an organization that actually does care about runners. You all might like to know that H2O is now answering their phones again - 703-528-8176; you can also fax them at 703-528-9176 or write to 2111 Wilson Blvd, Suite 201; Arlington, VA 22201. The woman I spoke to claimed they will respond to all written statements. Let's not let them get away with their poor treatment of us!
Eileen
Washington, DC USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 12:06:35 (EST)

I cannot thank the organisers and volunteers of this "grass roots" event enough! This was my fourth marathon and the most memorable. The support was awesome and there every step of the way, from the cheers of the volunteers at the water stops, to the bikers, to the directors at turns, which saved me from getting lost.... I wore my UK Union Flag and the Stars and Stripes on my shirt.... I was sped along by cheers of "Rule Britannia" it was very emotional and gratifying. This group should be the official organisers of this event from now on!
Janet Adams Laird <j.a.laird at att.net>
Springfield, VA USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 12:06:34 (EST)

Wow, what an amazing race! I was not registered for the DC Marathon, but when I heard about the cancellation and subsequent oragization of the "Unofficial DC Marathon", I had to check it out. The volunteers were great, and the event was incredibly well organized, especially considering it was thrown together in less than a week. The spirit and the statement of running the race was felt by everyone there, and I'm very happy that I did it. Many thanks and congratulations to the runners and volunteers, and most notably to the people who organized this. This was the most enjoyable race I have ever run.
Jesse Clayton <telemajik at netscape.net>
Washington, DC USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 12:05:30 (EST)

Big thanks to all the organizers and volunteers, and CONGRATULATIONS
Eileen
Washington, DC USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 12:01:30 (EST)

Big thanks to all the organizers and volunteers, and CONGRATULATIONS
Eileen
Washington, DC USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 12:01:29 (EST)

The best marathon I've ever run! For the 1st time, being off of my racing pace didn't matter as I visited with volunteers and friends along the route, with a smile on my face from start to finish. This is the only way to see DC and get a feel for the amazing community that we have in the nation's capital. Thanks to all who made our unofficial race day worth months of training in the weeks of snow and subzero temps. I have a renewed appreciation for what the power of a few can accomplish!
Kymberly Escobar <kymesco at hotmail.com>
Wash, DC USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 11:39:58 (EST)

Whata great day! The fact that the "Un-official DC Marathon" happened at all is amazing. The whole vibe was so much more supportive that I could have imagined. The volunteers were great! Especially those who slowed down to run with this fat old guy. This was my second marathon and although my time was pretty slow, I couldn't have felt better at the end simply because WE DID IT! Organizers: Congratulations on an amazing accomplishment. THANKS EVERYONE!!! Now my only question now is how can I get a hold of one of those "Can't blow up what you can't catch" T-shirts. By the time I crossed the finish line, they were all gone.
Roger Reynolds <mushbutt at hotmail.com>
Fredericksburg, VA USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 11:35:37 (EST)

Thank You Organizers!!!!! I was a volunteer and it was a tremendous and wonderful experience for me. I wrote a long “Unofficial DC Marathon… a volunteer’s report" and posted it on the Runner's World Forum. I was the runner traffic guy on Penslyvania Ave. in Anacostia, then the trafic guy at 18th and "C". It is too long to post here so here's the url. Thanks for the wondrful experience.
Alec "Daffy Duck" Desroches <MrDaffyDuck at hotmail.com>
Fairfax, Va. USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 10:51:49 (EST)

I just wanted to add my 2 cents and TOTALLY thank the organizers/volunteers/city officials/sponsors for their efforts in organizing this unofficial marathon! To put something together like this event in just a couple of days is truly an amazing feat and everyone involved should be commended! It was a truly amazing and heartwarming experience to be part of this marathon. I?ve never had so much fun running 26.2 miles! What more could you ask for in a run? Thanks again for the opportunity to run around one of the best cities in the world!
Terry Ottina <missmousie at erols.com>
Alexandria, VA USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 10:48:40 (EST)

Can you please post information on what is going on with a lawsuit or refunds? The dc marathon web site is down and they are not responding to phone calls or emails. I am not sure where to look for information about what is happening now, especially about getting refunds and WHY they really did cancel; maybe you can use this grassroots organization to keep us informed to? Thank you!
Denise
USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 10:39:56 (EST)

I just wanted to say thank you to all of the great volunteers, we never could have found our way throughout the city without your help. This was my first marathon and it was a great experience, thanks so much for making it happen!!
Kelly Hahn
Arlington, VA USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 10:38:08 (EST)

What a great day for DC! Thank you so much to the organizers, Fleet Feet, and the many running groups who worked together to make this event a huge success. And, thank you to all the local merchants who donated food and beverages at such last minute notice -- especially Mark at Safeway and Sophia at Einstein Bagels -- you're the best! The supporters were a perfect tribute to what makes this a great community. All of the volunteers were so warm and caring in their encouragement. And, the kids in Anacostia givin' us high fives -- that really kept me going! While I was sad that my first marathon would end up being "unofficial", it actually ended up being a more personal and more challenging experience! Having everyone at the finish calling out my name is a memory I won't soon forget! There will be other marathons, but there will never be one as meaningful and unique as this one. Thank you, thank you!
Lara Cooke Morford <cookemorford at yahoo.com>
Silver Spring, MD USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 10:22:10 (EST)

Thank you so very much to all the supporters and those who took the initiative to keep this marathon alive. I flew out here from Seattle to run my very first marathon. As I was packing to leave for this trip I heard the news. I was so disappointed I almost left my running shoes at home. I'm so thankful for people like Kari Shellhorn and her co-worker Ryan (who was not even running in the marathon) who worked so hard to get the news out and keep this thing going. As I was finishing the last three miles of the marathon it was the cheers from the volunteers, the encouragement from my sister and brother-in-law, and the inspiration from my brother serving his country in the Middle East that pulled me through to the finish line. I could not have had a more enjoyable and rewarding experience for my first and definitely not last marathon. Thank you to everyone who made this happen.
Janelle Andresen <jkandresen at hotmail.com>
Seattle, Wa USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 10:07:16 (EST)

I was so disappointed when I heard about the cancellation on the Thursday before the race. But when I heard about this unofficial race, I became very excited to join hundreds with a message to the public that we are taking back our race that we trained so hard for. I was not out there to kill myself and get a new PR as usual. Rather, I enjoyed many conversations and encouraged my fellow runners. And I surprisingly had my second best time! The volunteers were amazing. Your support to pull this together in such a short amount of time is a new record. It was also great to have the support from the DC Police, DC EMA, ….and the public who gave us the right away and honked for support! Thank you everyone for this great experience.
Sherry Eckert <sherry_eckert at yahoo.com>
Arlington, VA USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 10:06:16 (EST)

Even though I didn't run it (I need an official time for qualifying purposes) I was extremely impressed with your outcome. In the short time you had to prepare, it is clearly evident that Runners are the best people to organize races. I can only imagine what a successful event the organizers could put on given more time and prep work. Maybe they ought to consider that and take over for next spring. Marine Corp Marathon has always been known as The People's Marathon. Perhaps a spring time DC Marathon put on by the local running organizations could be labled The Runner's Marathon. A race put on for Runner's by Runner's. (regardless of your speed... 6:00 hour marathoners and 2:10 hour marathoners. This race is designed for the runner). DC is such a great venue for a large scale race.
Todd Katz <todd_katz at hotmail.com>
USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 09:59:53 (EST)

Thank you, thank you, thank you! :) I had signed up with a team to do the relay, and I was only going to run 10.6 - but I felt great and ran over 14, the most I'd ever run in my life! Three cheers to the "un-official" organizers, volunteers, and Fellow runners who provided tremendous enthusiasm, support, and inspiration! :) The spirit conveyed yesterday is one of the reasons why I LOVE THE USA!
Eric Steiner <esteiner at hungercenter.org>
Washington, DC USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 09:10:39 (EST)

Thanks so much for pulling this together. To put this on in 2 days was truly amazing and I can't imagine the effort put for by you guys. This was my first marathon and it means alot more to me in light of the circumstances in the world right now, and the way this race was pulled together. This really was 'The People's Marathon'.
Matthew Ginsburg <mginsburg at gt.com>
Washington, DC USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 09:10:22 (EST)

Thanks for everything!!! It was a fantastic race. My particular thanks to the volunteers, who not only worked hard, but cheered enough for 10 spectators each! In addition, please see my letter to the Editor of the Washington Times for the Column that tried to rationalize cancelling the "Official" race: Dear Sirs - I noted with some interest that after publishing Mr. Nearman's unsuccessful rationalization for the outrageous conduct of H2O Entertainment in cancelling the DC Marathon, that you chose not to cover the extraordinarily successful running of the marathon by 10% of the original entrants. Had you had the courage to send a reporter out on Sunday morning, you would have discovered that a handful of local runners, backed by incredible support from volunteers and local running groups, staged an enjoyable and successful marathon with three days planning. The solid support of District officials, police and federal officials for the "Unofficial" DC Marathon completely refutes Nearman's wholly unsupported claim that "Federal and District agencies warned Stanley that if even one hair on his head was out of place during his event, the race would be shut down for security reasons." The decision to cancel the "Official" DC Marathon was not only the "wrong" decision, it was a craven one. Yesterday's race proved that H2O's claim that they cancelled due to "security" concern's was wholly unsubstantiated; the class action lawsuit will discover if runners who claim the decision to cancel and keep all of the entry fees was made for the financial benefit of H2O, as now seems likely. As to Mr. Nearman's gratuitous cheap shots about the conflict in Iraq being more important than the race, I ran 26.2 miles with a Lieutenant Colonel working 80 hours a week at the Pentagon in war intelligence and the father of one of our brave soldiers, and both were absolutely convinced that the proper way to show or support for the brave men an women in Iraq and around the world was to run the race and prove that those brave soldier's efforts to make America, including its capitol, safe and secure, were successful. Regards, Stephen J. Easley Arlington, Virginia
Steve Easley <seasley at cais.com>
Arlington, Va USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 09:05:10 (EST)

Thanks to all who spun gold out of hay, yesterday. I trust the mayor will follow through with the lawsuit against H20. But don't sdend the money back, send it to the DC area running clubs and let them have the event permanently. In many ways, I now have a better appreciation for DC.
Bill Fitzgerald <wfitz3 at rcn.com>
Athol, MA USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 09:04:29 (EST)

Congratulations on putting together an outstanding event at such short notice. We are runners, we are running marathons, because we face and defeat challenges. Whatever the true story is behind H2O, the reality is that the organizers, volunteers, and other people who so generously supported this event demonstrated that it is something more than flesh and water (h2O) that creates the human spirit. Thank you.
Nigel Elkan <nelkan at yahoo.com>
Great Falls, VA USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 08:49:15 (EST)

What an incredible day! It's nice to know there are a LOT of other people out there who wanted to run this race anyway, and many volunteers ready to help with directions, water, candy, and ENCOURAGEMENT along the way. Many, many thanks to those who took on the organizing, those who stayed out on the course to bring us through, to the police who helped keep us out of traffic, to the puzzled residents along the way who cheered us on and especially to those who stopped traffic at the last intersection so I didn't collapse on 12th St. You are my heroes!
Brigid Guttmacher
Washington, DC USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 08:34:23 (EST)

"I ran 26.2 miles without H2O." What a great slogan! This was my first marathon, and I wasn't about to let a cowardly "official" organizer stop me from completing it. My sincere thanks to the wonderful volunteers and organizers; your accomplishments in such a short period of time were amazing. Many thanks to the supportive DC police and residents along the route. It was a memorable day!
Andrea Sheys
USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 08:33:59 (EST)

I was a volunteer at the 3 (on the way out) and 24.5 (on the way back) waterstop. It was wonderful to be a part of this. We cold not help notice how very polite and tidy the runners were. We have never seen runners stop to be sure their cups went in the trash and to thank each volunteer. This was the finest spirit of the running community personified! Hooray!
Trish Hannon
USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 08:21:29 (EST)

A special thanks to the organizers and volunteers who gave us runners the chance to fulfill what we trained for during a rather challenging winter. I could never have finished without their encouragement...and water stops. You managed to create a very "official" feeling marathon in so little time. Thanks also to the DC police, and all the residents along the route, for thier assistance and support.
Jennifer Moore
USA - Monday, March 24, 2003 at 05:15:27 (EST)

Thanks so much to all the volunteers who helped organize the Unofficial marathon!! This was my first marathon ever, and I couldn't have gotten my 3:46 without all the cheering and support from the sidelines! I'm so grateful for the water stops and food provided by everyone, and I definitely ran with a huge smile on my face. The marathon was a huge success and I was so impressed. Thanks for making the runners so happy! You guys are the best!
Jennie Kim <jennie9381 at aol.com>
USA - Sunday, March 23, 2003 at 21:38:22 (EST)

Thanks everyone for making our Unofficial DC Marathon a success. If you'd like, this is the forum to put any comments for the race's organizers, volunteers, and runners. Thanks for coming out! -Ryan
Ryan Ozimek <cozimek at picnet.net>
Washington, DC USA - Sunday, March 23, 2003 at 21:00:41 (EST)

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