This was my first time running this marathon and first time to Birch Bay. What a beautiful course and scenery and the weather couldn't have been any more perfect.

I've never run such a small marathon and agree that Joel and the volunteers did a great job. The only complaint I have is that there was a mix up with my bib at the finish. I'm looking forward to my time being corrected in the results.

I hope to be back next year. ::)

This race is a welcome "no frills throw-back" to my earliest days of racing. I ran the 25K, but if ever there was a day to run the marathon, this would have been it. What a beauty. I carried my own aid, figuring the marathoners might need the aid stations more than I did on their second loop, but it still seemed like there might have been a shortage of cups for the runners. Other than that, it was a super event. Thanks Joel and all the volunteers for your hard work.

John Hastings

Everett, WA

Thank you Joel, and thank you weather gods for a beautiful footrace. I think there was a mixup on the availability of aid and I ran out of gas on the second loop. Otherwise a great run on a great day!

Sunday was a great day for the 40th annual Birch Bay Marathon. Kudos to Joel for ordering the clear skies and no wind.

I would add to carry some sort of rag to wipe that salty spray out of my eyes. That stuff can really sting if the wind is whipping up (and I'm sure it will!).

Rob from the Desert,

Visit Fairhaven. It is a very cool, funky section of Bellingham. You will find great shopping in historic old buildings, spectacular food, and you will find Fairhaven Runners. Fairhaven is cozy and easy to walk...you will love it. See you on Sunday...good luck.

Thanks Kevin!

I don't have a vest top for the wind.

Presently planning:

-long sleeve dryfit

-short sleeve dryfit

-thick socks to cover my arms

-Brooks zip-up jacket

-wool cap for the head

-compression shorts

-shorts over them

I am planning to purchase gloves and socks in Bellingham. Any suggestions on good socks and gloves and where I should look to purchase these?

THANK YOU for your support!

Rob

Rob from the Desert,

I like to layer in the windy, rainy NW weather. I go with a long sleeve shirt and singlet. A wind vest is a nice option if it is very windy. Compression shorts, smart wool socks, gloves, and a hat complete the ensemble. Do not underestimate how wet you can get and how cold that feels, even if the temps are in the 40s. If you have support on the course, have them carry dry clothes for a quick change.

Kevin

Bellingham,WA

I know it's going to be windy, cold and wet. If you started the 25K at 8:30, the finish line crew would have an extra half hour to stay warm. Running in the cold is better than just standing there in it. Last year the first 25K finisher came in 32 minutes (real time, not race time) before the first Marathon finisher. Having the two races finish closer to the same time might make the two races a little bit more exciting, as well as easier to manage.

Hey Runners,

I am a desert dweller...out of my element soon!

Any suggestions on how to dress for the weather?

I can handle the cold, but it's the wind and rain that have me a bit nervous.

I looked at the photos from the previous runs, but I am wondering if runners were happy with their gear or would change it?

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!

Rob

Phoenix, AZ

You will be able to register the day of the race if you don't want to register online. That's how we did it last year.

How does one register by snail-mail?

*tc

Max, thanks for the comment. The answer is YES! However please call or email me so we can talk more about it.

Thanks a ton!

Joel Pearson, RD

jrap85@msn.com

360-223-0264

I would like to walk, but my fastest walking marathon was 5:45. Would it be possible for me to start early on my own? I don't care about an "official" time or finish.

Yes.. walkers are certainly welcome.

I also was wondering if walkers were welcomed.

I was wondering if walkers are welcome to participate?