Some people run to win. However, virtually all of the participants in the Fargo Marathon and all its various races this week will win nothing.
Some will try to run a personal best. Some will try to beat a friend. Some will try to finish their particular race without walking. Some will just try to cover the distance in any way they can. Some are just exploring this running thing for the first time and have no idea what to expect. Many are not particularly interested in their finish time but are merely participating because it is a grand social event. Many people train extremely hard for these races, running in rain and wind and snow and cold, and occasionally, in perfect weather.
Weather is, of course, a very big part of the races. Ideal conditions can help runners to better times. But weather, ideal or not, is a huge part of the experience. It frames the memories. Good luck to all the runners this evening and tomorrow and many thanks to the organizers and the volunteers.
