Improvise, Adapt, Overcome

It is ten days before the Marine Corps Marathon. If you haven't heard, it is in jeopardy of being cancelled. They make their decision by this Saturday, Oct. 19. Only three days away...

From the MCM website:

"Since the government shutdown occurred, the Marine Corps Marathon continues its coordination with hopes of a conclusion in time to host the event without impact. Without a resolution to the government shutdown this week, the MCM as planned is in jeopardy of being cancelled.

While still considering and exploring all possible options, the MCM has targeted this Saturday, October 19as the date to officially notify runners of the status of the event. It is sincerely the hope of everyone associated with the organization that MCM participants can run as planned."

Despite the possibility of the race being cancelled, many registered runners are still planning on showing up in DC. The MCM Facebook page has been abuzz with comments from runners making alternative plans, running routes, and still coming together for a 26.2 mile march on Washington. There are events popping up, such  as "Marine Corps Marathon-Rain, Shine, or Government Shutdown." Some people are even thinking of donating money to keep the parks open for the day of the race, if that's even a possibility. 

I personally plan on heading down to DC even if the race is cancelled. I don't know exactly how this will work out, especially if the roads aren't closed and there may not be any medical or aid station volunteers. I hope that we can all come together to show our commitment to the People's marathon and celebrate our sport. I am just concerned about security issues, disrupting traffic, or other unforeseen problems that may arise if 30,000 runner show up.

For now, I am continuing to train. I can't do anything but hope for the best and anxiously wait for the decision on Saturday. My first 26.2 may not be official, but it's going to happen.

If you are registered for MCM, are you still running if it's cancelled?