2024 Grandma’s Half Marathon Takeways

Thousands of runners head up to Duluth, MN every year to run Grandma’s Marathon. It’s one of the most popular marathons in the Midwest and leaves people wanting more year after year. I’m focusing on speed and triathlon training in 2024, but I couldn’t say no to a free bib to run Grandma’s Half Marathon, technically known as… Here are my top takeaways from the race day.

1. The Half is just as good as the full

   In 2019, Grandma’s was my first marathon and I’ve been hooked ever since. Running along Lake Superior in the North Woods of Minnesota is gorgeous. While you hear the water crashing up against the rocks you’re running past stunning nature and lakefront properties. Spectators line the streets and the crowds get larger as you get closer to town. The half starts halfway on the same route so you get similar crowd support and the same beautiful, flat/slightly rolling course. There aren’t as many runners in the half as in the full which is nice, it makes the early 6 am start worth it since the port-a-potty lines don’t get long, and getting to the start is simple. Lastly, with the earlier start time, there’s plenty of time to spectate the marathon once you finish if you have friends or family running.
   

2. Every Race doesn’t have to be a PR

   It seems like everyone is racing for fast PRs no matter the course difference. Yes, a PR is exciting and well worth it, but setting other goals throughout the journey is just as, if not more beneficial. Our strategy for this race was to have fun and see how much my easy pace has improved this year from triathlon training. Yes, I can run a faster half in the 1:40s, but running an easy 1:57 while maintaining a lower HR is a huge win! Especially considering my half during my marathon last fall was 1:54.
   

3. Zone 2 Cross Training is Helpful

   Zone 2 is a hot topic these days. In simple terms, if we can program training in a way that helps us have a lower heart rate for a faster pace, it’s a win-win. Although, if you’ve ever paid attention to your HR during your easy runs, it’s hard to maintain zone 2 for a variety of reasons. Weather, terrain, keeping up with friends, and stress easily shift us into the gray zone of zone 3. With triathlon, I’ve tried to keep my easy swims and rides in zone 2 since the intensity is much lower than running. I’m happy to report, it’s working! Last year I ran a similar half with similar paces, my average HR was 177 and this year it was 144! This is HUGE and I’m so excited!

4. Large Race with Easy Race Logistics - I’ll be back for more
   

   Race day energy is one of the best parts of larger races. Despite the early wake-up call, everyone’s buzzing with excitement. The volunteers are happy to be there and the spectators do their part by lining the streets to make sure there’s not a single section where you do not feel the love from the city. The biggest con about larger races in big cities is often logistics, although this is not the case for Grandma’s.
   
   You can park away from the event traffic and take the skywalk to the expo for packet pickup. Buses take you to the start, all you have to worry about is being there on time. Everyone gets a drop bag that you drop off at the start line and pick up at the finish. You can bring extra food, shoes, and clothes to change into right away at the finish line. You don’t even need to worry about bringing an extra shirt since you receive your finisher shirt at the finish line. Colder start? Volunteers pass out foil blankets to keep you warm and there are bins where you can toss your throw-away clothes if needed. When you cross the finish line, there’s plenty of post-race food and space, but you don’t have to walk a mile to meet up with family. Spectating is easy, especially if you’re family or friends are interested in biking. Hotels can be challenging; they book up fast and are expensive in Duluth. However, it’s just as easy and cheaper to stay in WI since buses leave from hotels in Superior. With all that to say, a large race atmosphere with easier logistics keeps us coming back for more each year.

   With all this to say, you’ll probably see me at Grandma’s next year. Maybe I’ll make it my PR race next time!

   Happy Running,

   Diana