by Shawn Nowlin
The 17th edition of the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon attracted approximately 3,000 runners from 40 states to downtown Roanoke on April 18.
Talk about being pushed, both physically and mentally. The marathon, viewed as one of the toughest road races in America, covers 26.2 miles across three mountains: Mill Mountain. Roanoke Mountain and Peakwood.
Each runner had the option of choosing the 10K, half-marathon or full-marathon. During the race, there were various street closures and parking restrictions.
Approximately 11,000 spectators of all ages cheered the runners on. With a time of 2:49:11, Rob Perkinson from Williamsburg, was the male full marathon winner. Germantown, MD., resident Emily Sharp, with a time of 3:18:06, was the female full marathon winner. Full official results are expected to be posted on the marathon website in the coming days.
Every runner had a purpose for participating. For Chance Jackson, his reason was simple – to prove to himself that he can overcome any self-doubts about his body. “I’ve never been the most in-shape person in the world. Far from it,” Jackson said. “I was among the last finishers, but I did it. The feeling of crossing the finish line is something that I will never forget.”
Rather than a solo endeavor, the marathon is a shared family experience for many runners. Makena Harris having her parents, husband and two daughters in the crowd meant the world to the North Carolina resident.
“Completing the race was my only objective. I trained hard for the half-marathon, and that commitment paid off,” she said. “It’s an indescribable feeling to accomplish a lofty goal with your loved ones right by your side.”
Walker Wilson didn’t show up to the race with intentions of placing in the standings. He just wanted to push through the temporary pain he knew awaited him.
“It took me some time to find my rhythm, but once I did, it was all uphill from there,” he said. “To do this on a day with such great conditions was amazing. You couldn’t ask for a better atmosphere. From the crowd support to nature’s beauty, everything was perfect.”
After the race, runners celebrated their accomplishment at Elmwood Park with live music and food. Regardless of how long it took, every participant was rewarded with a medal around their neck.
Several eateries such as Corned Beef & Co and Reggae Grub in the area reaped the benefit of the marathon weekend. “To celebrate, I took my family to the City Market and told them to let their taste buds run wild,” Harris said.
The annual event is owned and produced by Roanoke Outside, a non-profit organization, in conjunction with the city itself.
Last year, the race brought nearly $1.7 million in economic impact to the region. This year, according to event organizer Kait Pedigo, that number is expected to be higher.
