The Challenge:
Oktoberfest Half Marathon
Marathoners start near the renown Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area. Runners run a loop through the Icicle Canyon the Bavarian Village of Leavenworth through wooded riverfront trails. A nice relief with mixed surfaces including asphalt and dirt trails. Surrounded by impressive mountains, you’ll likely see salmon spawning in the Wenatchee River and Icicle Creek.
A half marathon in the small mountain town of Leavenworth, WA. We were a team of nine, brave, slightly crazy runners who committed to the months of training it demands and then made the trek over the Cascades to run 13.1 miles. The morning of October 1st, we piled into the SUV with pre-race jitters and made our way to the starting line. The race found itself on a crisp, colorful and clear fall day, which added to the excitement. The course was mostly flat, following the Wenatchee river, in the foothills of the Cascades, resulting in as close to a perfect course as it gets. And with that as our stage ,we all finished strong and proud, a huge achievement. “Go Team Belly Bag!”
The Reward:
A big bonus to the Leavenworth half marathon is that it is during Oktoberfest. After a short rest, some Heidleburger burgers and a shower we all walked (yes, walked) into town to enjoy some well-earned beer. Schneider Aventinus Eisbock happened to be our first choice and I cant even begin to explain how good it tasted in its golden delicious glory. It even made my feet stop aching. Magic.
