Race well planned

The inaugural running of the Two Bear Marathon would not have been possible without the well thought through planning of the race creators and all the volunteers out to support The Wave and those participating in the race.

I would like to thank all of them for doing an amazing job. The support, not only the continuous aid but also of the entire town, was seen through all 26.2 miles of the course.

From the mountain bikers and Croc Hunter who rode in to support the aid station deep in the woods between miles 11 and 12 to the family sitting on the hill at mile 23 making noises of support with spoons and pots from the kitchen.

And, of course, no runner can forget the two bears that scared us on our way and then greeted us at the finish.

The course had the feel not of a first-year race, but that of one already a tradition to those running and supporting it. It was awesome to see a scholarship fund-raiser created that not only makes The Wave possible for all but also sparks the healthy athletic spirit The Wave was built to support.

It was great to see such a large percentage of the runners on a marathon course for the first time. Many of these runners were able to conquer a lifetime goal that they did not know how to challenge until the option of The Wave. This is one marathon many others and I will return to run year after year, but next year we'll bring friends.

Nathan Driggers

Seattle, Wash.