After getting its start as the Motorola Marathon, then becoming the Freescale Marathon for the first time today this Austin Marathon was finally called just that: The Austin Marathon.

Emily, Colette and I got up early to go watch the first part of the race which passed within a block of our house. I'm not sure how many times they changed the course before deciding on the one they used today. The first couple of attempts were very hilly courses and there was an awful lot of complaining from the running community. That's not a good thing for a race that bills itself as a fast race and a good Boston Marathon Qualifier (the pinacle for regular marathon runners).

Unfortunately I didn't get to run in today's race. I spent August through December training specifically for the Half Marathon, but after twisting my ankle VERY badly in late December I haven't been able to run since. I was a little bummed that I wasn't able to run the race myself, but watching a Maraton is always an inspiring thing for me. Growing up in Southern California I'd always watch the LA Maraton on TV. It's probably that annual event that lead to my being a runner today.

Not having run the race I don't know if the final course was really good or not. On paper it looked like it represented Austin well. Especially with the finish on Congress with the Capital as the background. We also walked about a mile of the course and saw no less than 3 live bands. Gotta love Austin!

Congratulations Finishers! Your hard work and persistence have paid off. Enjoy your accomplishment.

Happy Networking!

Scott Ingram
NetworkInAustin.com