Runners really said GO at the 2023 Kenai River Marathon. 
According to executive director Samantha Springer, they had a turnout of 210 people registered for the race, with individuals coming from 19 different states.
“I’m really excited because this is a huge amount of runners, especially not being a Boston qualifier. So 210 people, I mean, it’s gonna be massive.”
As the clock struck 8:55, runners made their way towards the start, eager to take on the challenge ahead of them.
At 9:00 am, moment of silence washed over the crowd.
Silence. Waiting.
Then a CLAP! from the 2023 wooden salmon clapper cut through the air, and racers shot out of the chute, ready to take on the marathon ahead of them.
The course for the marathon works as such.
Runners start at the Kenai chamber of commerce, and run towards the Kenai bridge.
According to Tyler Best, the Parks and Recreation Director for the Kenai Chamber of Commerce, this is the best part of the race.
“I think the marathon is one of the best races cause you’ve run across the bridge and you really get to see the whole community of Kenai and Soldotna doing the full marathon.”
After the bridge, runners would find themselves on K-Beach Road. After turning right at K-Beach, they would run back towards the bridge. The last leg of the race was by Bridge Access Rd. Runners race their way back to the chamber building, where they could celebrate that they completed the marathon.
Best expressed gratitude towards the race for not only the turnout, but the meaning behind the race.
“It started with a like a doctor’s conference with Doc Hanson and the Kenai Parks Department, and it’s always pushed just health and Wellness. It just really shows people out here taking good care of themselves and promoting recreation and again, a fun, healthy activity to do.”
As runners from the marathon, half marathon, and 5k finished their race, the day closed out with sweaty smiles, and very tired legs.