1 January 2013 – 4 hrs 27 min

Marathon Man No1 Texas Marathon

Following several days of cold wet weather in Houston to end 2012, the first morning of 2013 would prove to be more of the same. Undaunted we gathered for the Texas Marathon – the first event of the Marathon Man 2013 World Record attempt.

Marathon Man Texas Marathon Pre-Race

The race was to start in a small park in the beautifully picturesque little community of Kingwood, surrounded by large shopping centres and a residential area. The pre-race gathering allowed me to meet a number of fellow Marathon Maniacs, all wearing their distinctive bright yellow shirts. I met the current Guinness World Record holder Larry Macon and was honoured to get a photograph of us shaking hands. There were some amazing stories of the number of marathons these other competitors had completed.

The marathon started at 8am with the course comprising a total of four out-and-back loops on concrete paths, running through a very pretty area. There were a couple of stops for photographs during the race, so I am very happy with the result.

Marathon Man Texas Marathon Course

The course volunteers on drink stations were very helpful, and the support from other runners provided a little extra motivation. I found myself in a very good mood helping a few others along the way with words of encouragement, before ending with a typically strong Marathon Man finish.

At the finish I received the largest 3.3 pound medal ever seen as well as a signatory rat that was the mascot for this year’s race. This was a very professionally run event with all results on computer screen and displayed at the finish, along with the pizza and drinks provided all making a massive difference. All runners were supplied with a finisher’s shirt and a gear bag as well.

In summary, a very good day out!

Marathon Man Texas Marathon Medal

Marathon Man Texas Marathon Finish Line