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Mad Marathon #1

The Mad Marathon 2012 will always hold a special place in my heart.


It was the very first marathon I ever ran. With some encouragement from my friend Robyn, I signed up, not fully realizing what I was getting myself into. Training? Let’s just say I didn’t exactly follow a rigorous plan.


Thankfully, my friend Ralph offered to stick with me for a walk/run strategy. Knowing I wasn’t entirely prepared, his support made all the difference. The plan wasn’t about speed or PRs—it was about getting to the finish line, one way or another.


The course itself lived up to its reputation. Set in the beautiful (and hilly!) Mad River Valley, the scenery was stunning, but the relentless hills made sure we earned every mile. The small-town charm and supportive atmosphere from both the organizers and spectators kept us going as the miles piled up.


Jeanne Corey Marchand, Mad Marathon 2012 - Jeanne Runs

We hit mile 22, and that’s when Ralph’s legs cramped up. He told me to keep going, saying he wanted me to finish in under 5 hours. I was stunned. Wait, I’ve been running for that long? Reluctantly, I left him behind and pushed on, heading back into town.


This race was so small that the streets were open to traffic, and I found myself running on the shoulder of the road, guided only by orange cones. I kept yelling to people walking by, “Where’s the finish?” They’d point down the street, and I’d keep going. I repeated this a few times until finally, I saw it—the finish chute. It resembled a barn structure, and I can’t even describe the relief and happiness I felt seeing it.


Crossing that finish line was incredible. I was exhausted, elated, and so proud. Despite my lack of training, I had done it, and the memory of that day—the highs, the struggles, and the finish—is one I’ll treasure forever.


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