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The Joy of Extended Finishing Times
Imagine participating in a marathon with a luxurious time limit of 7 hours and 45 minutes. This was the reality at the Every Woman’s Marathon (EWM) in Savannah, Georgia, where the emphasis shifted from competition to celebration. This generous time frame allows runners to enjoy the journey instead of merely racing against the clock, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie along the course.
A Race for All Paces
Many runners often feel the pressure as they try to make strict time cuts during races. However, EWM’s extended cutoff time invites more participants—about 40 percent of whom were running their first marathon. The ability to run at a comfortable pace transformed the atmosphere, as many runners felt embraced and accepted regardless of their speed.
Creating a Celebratory Atmosphere
As runners enjoyed high-fives from onlookers and engaged with neighborhood festivities, they experienced a unique sense of possibility and joy. Leslie Robbins, a participant from Cleveland, highlighted the emotional empowerment that accompanied the extended time limit, reinforcing the idea that running is for everyone, no matter their experience or skill level.
Connecting Through Shared Experiences
The EWM showed how essential it is to create welcoming events for all athletes. Participants like Stacy Smith described her stress-free experience during the race and the joy of finishing without the fear of being picked up by the “sad wagon.” The supportive environment not only made the race meaningful but also enriched the running community as a whole.
Rethinking Race Standards
This marathon serves as a powerful reminder that longer time limits can foster stronger connections among participants and redefine the experience of running events. It’s time for race organizers to consider how they can create more inclusive environments, encouraging every individual to join in and thrive.
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