Wow! My first trip to Chicago for the famed marathon major is 10 days and 23 hours away. That starting gun… I can almost hear it.
I posted last year about a very inspiring and heartwarming documentary produced years ago. Spirit of the Marathon revolves around the progress of runners training and then eventually running the Chicago Marathon. I remember the first time I watched it a few years ago when I was really starting to get into running seriously. I hadn’t even run a marathon yet. This movie inspired me, and made running the a Chicago Marathon a big goal of mine.
I’ve watched the coverage online the past three years. I dreamed about being there one day. Now a lottery, I decided to throw my name in the hat this past April. Low and behold, about 10 days later, I received the confirmation email that I had gotten in. Really? Was I going to run Chicago? The dream was now reality. I quickly confirmed my registration and began making plans. I paid my registration fee, booked my flight and hotel.
I am running the Chicago Marathon on October 12th. It’s real!
I couldn’t think of a more fitting way to inspire my last few runs prior to the race than to watch this great movie again. If you haven’t ever seen it, you need to. Google it, find out where you can watch it. Hulu, YouTube, you can buy it, rent it. Just watch it! I’m going to use it as incredible inspiration and something to get the running juices flowing.
If you’ve seen the movie, feel free to share your thoughts. If you haven’t seen it yet, comment after you’ve watched it.
Running Wild 
I have seen the movie and I really liked it. I watched the first one when I started running and couldn’t even imagine running a marathon then. I watched the second one in theatres when I was training for my first (and only) marathon. They are really inspiring movies. I think I liked the first one the best, though. It is a very inspiring film for any runner, marathon or not.
I agree, the first was better. So, when is marathon #2?
Maybe someday. I have no plans to do another anytime soon. I’d rather run shorter and faster :). I really want to focus on 5Ks and 10Ks, but I think I’ll race a half in 2015.
Um, All American, right?
Yep. If I drive that far, I may as well opt for the half over the 5K ;).
I’ve never seen the movie but would like to. So excited for you to run Chicago. I’ve never heard anything bad about that race and it’s on my short list! Chicago is unique too!
Omg, you need to watch it on Netflix. Tonight! Or download it to your IPad, or computer. You would feel totally inspired. It is really an awesome documentary for runners of all ages and abilities. Please tell me you will watch it.
Yes, I will watch it!
Good luck and have a great time!
Thank you! Should be a blast and one for the memory book.
Btw…. How is training coming along for Savannah?
Coming along good. I’m in week 13 of my training. 2 long runs left of 20 miles in the next few weeks. I’m looking forward to it winding down and getting out there to complete the marathon. Hope it will be as memorable as some of your recent marathons.
You guys need to download or rent from Netflix the Spirit of the Marathon. It’s like a $3.99 rental. It will inspire you both. I’ve watched it twice in the past, but am going to buy it for my IPad and the trip up to Chicago on the plane. You will have an epic Savannah run. Just try to ignore the on and off ramps. I heard they are a bit of a challenge.
I was surprised to see that part of the race, I think over a mile, is on the interstate. WTF? Anyways, I’ll look into that movie. I saw you and Kelli talking about it. Have a good time in Chicago!
I finally got to watch this when our internet was upgraded just a couple of months ago. It was really inspiring. I hope you have a great race!
So glad you finally saw it. Makes you want to set goals right?
I am going to watch this movie! Thanks for mentioning it.
I will be racing in Chicago as well! For my first marathon!! Good luck and you will have a great time. Chicago welcomes you.
Oh, best of luck! As a first time marathoner you have to watch it. It’s a must!
I’m gonna have to watch it!! Time is an issue but when it comes to anything to do with running I’ll definitely make a plan;) hopefully tmw my only free day from an education filled week…
You will love it. Promise!
Didn’t know there was a part 2.I enjoyed the first one.
Gotta check out the second.
Have a good day!
Yes, I watched the second one earlier this year. The first is better. Thanks for the follow.
Hey I got to watch it Paul a cracker of a documentary the best part is how we runners can all relate to the movie. I felt like going for run after truly inspiring. Chicago is definitely going on my bucketlists of todos;)
SO glad you watched it! Loved it? Inspired? Chicago for me a week from Sunday.
You have the tenacity of a hungry lion and the stubbornness of an elephant.. You’ll be fine and enjoy every epic step.