Hills and Heat at the Cleveland Marathon

Laurie Weiner (HF9266, DA3668, MM15681) –Today I ran my 15th marathon at Cleveland Marathon. Today brought challenges with hills and heat. I am surprised that there was no accommodation for the marathon runners as the temps soared into the 80s. Much of the last 10 miles was in direct sun without shade. I saw most runners came prepared with extra hydration and I saw no runners down on the side of the road with medics. I was hoping for some relief of cold sponges or cooling towels along the way, but no were offered.
Peter was such a BIG help as he caught up to me in several areas, but the biggest help was he found me around mile 14 with dry socks, Coke and grapes. These helped tremendously!
I saw Richard and Melisa Milisa Fabian Strain along the course. Randy Riley found me before the start. My biggest surprise and motivating moment was around mile 25 Tim Patton was blasting music and Peter saw him first and I immediately hugged him and felt his strength which helped me finish strong!
This was not my fastest marathon, but it was my fastest in my new age group of 60- 64. Now to rest and get ready for Eagle Up Ultra 50 miler in 2 weeks.