Susan Miller's Staging Area

I was well-trained for another marathon but ended up not going and thought I could try for a fast marathon on this course as they tout it as relatively flat and easy. Not sure if it was the heat, all the concrete, or the rolling hills (which usually I like!) but I had a terrible race here. Or maybe it was just me, not sure! But it was hard to get engaged in this race. I never felt the energy I usually do in a marathon as it was not fun/scenic, besides the few stretches along the beach, but after those brief spots, you’re running through pretty dull OC neighborhoods and city streets. Felt like a grind to me, much more so than other marathons, and even though there were some spectators occasionally out on the course, they were only looking for their own and did not generally cheer on other runners. Going through (what looked like) a dry river bed in the hot sun at the end was not a positive or fun way to wrap it up and finish strong, and I absolutely could not wait for it to be over. Was trained to go under 3:40 and ended at 3:51 and change. Good enough for first in my age group but disappointing for what I should/could have done on this course. On a positive note, I liked the early (5:30am!!) start!! Helped a bit with the heat, but not enough. But it was so early that I thought it would be a good idea to stay across the street from the start at the race headquarters hotel (Vea Newport Beach Marriott) to avoid extra travel/parking. Even though I booked early enough, it ended up being $380 but the final bill was crazy expensive – almost $500 for one night after the hotel tacked on taxes, resort charge, parking fee, etc. Too much $$ for what was supposed to be a quick and easy marathon close to home. Maybe worth it if you bring a significant other and make a weekend of it!

The NYC marathon is my favorite of all, after running 4 of 6 majors and many others, including Boston several times. I’ve run NYC 7 times and it never ceases to thrill me to pieces! There is absolutely nothing like the wave of energy from the crowd, which you can ride from start to finish. Then there’s the music and dancing you see, hear and feel along the way – AMAZING! NYC really goes all out and shows up to support, scream, cry, cheer, and yell for the runners. Yes, it’s not a flat, easy course, but it is not that hard, despite the bridges and the crowd will let you ride their energy, which gets you through it all. Truly nothing like it. You will be so moved. I hope all runners get the chance to do this race, which is not only a world-class marathon through one of the most exciting cities, but also an experience. I look forward to this day all year long. Nothing makes me feel more alive!!!! Do it.