I had been training hard all summer and wanted to run a marathon before pacing Hartford and running Boston, while my legs were still fresh. After some research, I found the Clarence DeMar Marathon in Keene, New Hampshire, known for its high number of Boston qualifiers and great reviews. I signed up and eagerly awaited race day, hoping it wouldn’t be canceled due to rising COVID cases.

Pre-Race Adventures
The race organizers had strict safety protocols, and fortunately, the event was not canceled. After some drama with our original hotel booking—a smoking room I couldn’t change—we found a better spot at the Black Mountain Inn in Brattleboro, Vermont. The staff was accommodating, even letting us check out late so we could shower after the race.
Packet pickup was simple, held outdoors at Keene State College with minimal frills due to safety guidelines. A standout moment was learning that race proceeds fund a program providing sneakers to Keene’s second graders, encouraging outdoor activities instead of video games.
We drove the course in advance to scope out the hills, which helped us feel prepared. The route offered beautiful scenery, with a few notable climbs, including one near the golf course at mile 14.
Race Weekend Vibes
Our Fleet Feet crew—Adrian, Marisa, Kaitlyn, Courtney, and Hur-shiu—joined in on the fun. Peer pressure played its usual role, convincing Hur-shiu to register. We had a delicious pre-race dinner at Papagallos, where the waiter joked about who was the fastest.
On race morning, we took an 8-mile bus ride from Keene State College to Gilsum Elementary School. The start area was well-organized with plenty of porta-potties and a warm indoor space for runners. Masks were worn by almost everyone. At 7:00 a.m. sharp, the gun went off, and we were on our way.
The Race Experience
Kim, aiming for a steady 8-minute pace, bolted off like a rocket. I quickly realized that chasing him would be a mistake and settled into my own rhythm. Early on, I connected with Bethany, a “Boston Streaker” with 13 consecutive Boston Marathons under her belt. She shared stories and tips about the course, which kept me motivated.
One highlight was the out-and-back section on a dam at mile 11, offering stunning water views. I cheered on Kim with a “Go Team Beef!” and he flashed a determined smile.
The hills started to show their teeth around mile 14. Thanks to all the hill repeats in training, I powered through, even when the inclines seemed never-ending. By mile 21, the cemetery hills surprised me again, but a young volunteer’s encouraging words and a short jog alongside him gave me a much-needed boost.
Mental Toughness and Finish Line Glory
The final miles tested my mental toughness. I sang “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen in my head and thought about funny moments with my daughter, like her uncontrollable laughter during “Little Bunny Foo Foo.” These mental tricks kept me going as I fought off cramps and fatigue.
Seeing the finish line filled me with energy. Spectators cheered as I crossed, securing a Boston Qualifier with a 30-minute cushion! The announcer celebrated my achievement, and Kim greeted me with excitement, apologizing for forgetting our traditional pre-race hug and kiss. We made up for it post-race, and I couldn’t have been happier.
I finished in 3:38:58, placing second in my age group. After months of intense training—hill repeats, speed work, and long runs—it was incredibly rewarding to see it all pay off.
Final Thoughts
The Clarence DeMar Marathon was beautifully organized and showcased New Hampshire’s scenic beauty with mountains, rivers, and even cows! The course was challenging but fair, with forgiving downhills. I loved every moment and can’t wait to return, hopefully with our full Fleet Feet crew for an encore performance.
Would I run this marathon again? Absolutely.
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