Marathons are much more than just athletic races,
they are a celebration of community,
sport and human determination
Text and photos Sebastián Krieger
Translation Juliana Zerda
On September 9, Verdun experienced one of the most beautiful athletic races in Montreal: The Bougebouge Verdun Marathon Weekend 2023. The competition took place in the parks between Boulevard La Salle and the St. Lawrence River, and ended shortly before noon near the Verdun Cultural Centre. It is a privileged environment of the city, in the middle of nature, among meadows, in the clean air, away from traffic; ideal for any sporting activity. And that day even the weather was an ally of the athletes, as the cloudy sky and the drizzle helped the runners not to suffer so much.
The race was supported by the municipality and several official entities, including the police, who were present with several officers in their vehicles along the route; some of them even cheered the participants, who received with joy and affection their moral support.
It was precisely the displays of solidarity and enthusiasm from the general public that motivated the runners to keep going, especially in the difficult moments when fatigue made the finish line seem unreachable. For most athletes, long-distance races are not about beating their opponents, but about beating themselves, completing a long distance or achieving a personal best. For the satisfaction of finishing the race.
It is worth to mention that the organization of the activity offered sufficient hydration to all athletes throughout the route, that the trail was well defined and that the volunteers did a great job of guidance and support. The overall organization of the event was very good, in fact, it is classified as “Gold” by the Quebec Athletics Federation. Perhaps the only negative thing was that there were not enough souvenir caps for all participants.
However, what is most remarkable is the civility of the more than 1000 participants (who ran distances between 1, 2, 5, 10, 21.1 and 42.2Km, in various categories according to age and sex), who joyfully respected all the indications and managed to avoid any unpleasant situation. After the race, the track was left as if nothing had happened, not even a trace of garbage, only smiles among the exhausted and satisfied athletes who began to retire under the rain. Fitness enthusiasts are already looking forward to next year’s edition.
This race, and all those that make up the city’s busy athletic calendar, continues to encourage an active lifestyle among its participants and strengthen community ties. From the elite runners to those who completed their first athletic race, the diversity of contenders with their education and courtesy are a reflection of Montreal society and the town of Verdun.
The official results can be found here.
(The author of this text participated in the race and finished fifth in his category).
