A weekend of firsts! Even though this was my eighth Grandma’s weekend, there were so many firsts for me that made it feel like it was my first time.
ARRIVAL:
Usually I’ve arrived Friday afternoon and this year I came in Thursday. This was great as I could participate in a shakeout run with friends on Friday morning. It was fun having more time in Duluth to see and do things outside of running races.
5K:
This was my first time running the William A. Irvin 5K. I’ve spectated it in the past but this year I thought I’d go for the Great Grandma’s challenge and run the 5K in addition to the Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon the next day. It is such a lively event and fun to participate for the first time!
SPAGHETTI DINNER:
After years of attending Grandma’s weekend I’m embarrassed to say this was my first year attending the Michelina’s All-You-Can-Eat Spaghetti Dinner. I’ve been missing out. Not only did I have plenty of helpings of delicious food, the big communal tables made for a great atmosphere to talk to fellow runners. I will be back for more next year.
TRANSPORTATION:
This year I stayed with friends in Rice Lake and took the shuttles from UMD. I’ve always taken the bus from the DECC so it was interesting doing something different. Finding the buses in the fog was exciting and a little scary. Someday I’ll complete the trifecta and take the train.
Despite so many firsts, it was the same Grandma’s weekend I love year after year. And I will be back!
Norris Anderson
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Favorite Grandma’s Marathon Memory:Running the Garry Bjorklund Half with my partner, Noah. I’ve run Grandma’s Marathon and Gary Bjorklund Half with a variety of friends over the years. Every year is memorable but the last three years Noah and I have run the half together and it’s become a fun tradition.
Favorite post-race beverage: Hot fudge and banana malt at The PortLand Malt Shoppe!
Reason you absolutely won’t run outside: I like to run year-round and enjoy the winter. I only don’t run outside if it is a safety concern like windchill and ice.
Songs that must be on your running playlist: ‘He’s the Greatest Dancer’ (Sister Sledge). When I’m training I prefer podcasts. Deep dives of Disney theme park trivia podcasts like “Retro WDW” are in heavy rotation.
Favorite pre-race meal: All-you-can-eat spaghetti. One year at Grandma’s weekend I overindulged and worried I would still be full at the start line. I have learned my limit.