Runners rejoice as the 2021 Blue Ridge Marathon is an in-person brutal foot tour through some of the most scenic landscape Roanoke has to offer. Since 2010, Roanokers have welcomed runners and their families from all over the world to compete in what has been named “America’s Toughest Road Race”. The race is popular among elite and amateur athletes alike and boasts age categories from children to 80+. The race offers a full 26.2, a half 13.1, a 10k, a family one-miler, and relay options so that people of many levels can be included. Spectators are invited to come out and cheer on runners as well. And this year, I expect there to be an enhanced celebratory spirit as we get closer to normalcy. The Blue Ridge Marathon embodies the celebration of good health, determination, discipline and hard work for all of those who choose to participate.
Important tips to remember while training for Roanoke’s Blue Ridge Marathon
- Low Visibility: Whether walker or runner, you may find yourself having to train on days when visibility is low due to foggy conditions or at night. Lending yourself to training with a “no excuses” mentality is normally a good thing unless you are unprepared for the outdoor conditions. At night or in fog, it is recommended that you wear lights and reflective clothing. Bright, “highlighter” colors are not enough to be seen in low visibility circumstances.
- Road Rules: What is the Cardinal Rule of walking on the roadway? Always walk or run facing traffic. This allows you to make eye contact with the driver and for the driver to see you more clearly. It also allows you to see the car as it approaches you and to make an evasive maneuver if necessary. If your back is facing on-coming traffic, you will not know the vehicle is going to hit you until it’s too late.
- Share your Story: Tell another person the route you are running and the time you expect to be back. In 2018, 6,227 pedestrians were killed by cars when traveling on foot in the U.S.
- Embrace the Sounds of Nature: Wearing airpods and cranking up the tunes can be a great stress buster, but save those runs for the treadmill. Keeping your ears open will allow you to be aware of passing cars and barking dogs.
- Not Every Dog is Man’s Best Friend: Runners are often the victims of dog bites and animal attacks. When approaching someone walking a dog be sure to verbally greet the person when in range. Always allow extra room when passing a dog in case the dog lunges in an attack. If you are chased by unleashed dogs, try to back away slowly with your body in a diagonal position toward the dog. In the event the dogs attack, stop, drop and tuck your head to protect your face and neck. After you are attacked, call 911, get medical attention and tell the authorities.
- Be Aware of Road Conditions: Slippery conditions still persist for walkers and runners in Spring. Frosty, cold mornings lend roads to slick spots. And wet debris and grass clippings do the same. No one wants a slip and fall when training for America’s Toughest Road Race.
The Thomson Law Firm welcomes all athletes and spectators to the Roanoke Valley for the 11th Annual Blue Ridge Marathon. We wish all participants the best of luck and hope that you will come again!
