Arguably the best small-town race in the United States
In a world where we often feel disconnected, the Fargo Half Marathon serves as a reminder of the power of community that permeates every aspect of this event.
To the Fargodome and Beyond!
You betcha I’m in Fargo.
Fargo, North Dakota, situated along the picturesque Red River, is a city steeped in history and known for its strong sense of community. Among the many events that bring the community together, the Fargo Marathon shines as a testament showcases athleticism, camaraderie, and the indomitable spirit of its participants.
As a runner, the sense of community pride envelops you from the moment you step into the Fargodome, the day before the race. Here, you embark on an exceptionally unique experience—walking around the entire dome for packet pickup.
Day of the race, you are inside the dome, on the same hallowed ground home to the 17-time National Champion North Dakota State Bison Football team.
As my good friend Jeramy and I bolted out of the Fargodome and into a crisp 45 degrees, the race took us through the local streets and neighborhoods and along the Red River Trail.
The Fargo Half Marathon isn’t just about running; it’s a celebration of community and resilience. As participants navigate the course, they’re greeted by enthusiastic spectators, whose cheers propel them forward. The race route comes alive with the sounds of local bands and performers, creating a festive atmosphere that’s both exhilarating and motivating.
For the remainder of this blog, I’ll use photos to capture the essence of this unique event and showcase the spirit of Fargo’s running community.
In Memory of Mark Knutson
In the world of marathons, there are race directors, and then there are legends. Mark Knutson belonged to the latter category. Although he may no longer be with us, Mark poured his heart and soul into what he loved the most: friends, family, The Fargo Marathon, and even total strangers like me. In the Fargodome after the race, I thanked him for the opportunity to run. He said,
“I hope you had a great time in our small town race. Looking forward to watching your video and reading your blog.”
I hope I did you, your race, and your community justice. I can’t wait to come back!