Whistler’s Answers: September 2, 1982Whistler’s Answers: September 2, 1982
In the 1980s the Whistler Question began posing a question to three to six people and publishing their responses under “Whistler’s Answers” (not to be confused with the Whistler Answer). Each week, we’ll be sharing one question and the answers given back in 1982. Please note, all names/answers/occupations/neighbourhoods represent information given to the Question at the time of publishing and do not necessarily reflect the person today.
Some context for this week’s question: On Sunday, August 29, Whistler held its first marathon. 131 participants (113 in the half marathon and 18 in the full marathon) circled the Whistler valley and, from all reports, the community played a huge role in sponsoring the event, volunteering, and cheering on the runners.
Question: What did you think of Whistler’s first marathon?
Nancy Power – Volunteer – Alpine Meadows
I thought the race organizers did a terrific job. The comments I heard from runners about marshalling and the aid stations were very positive.
One friend of mine who entered the marathon said he was almost ready to give up after the first lap, but when he came through the village and heard the music and all the audience cheering him on, he just couldn’t quit.
The only negative criticism I heard was that all the runners didn’t get T-shirts.
Murray Coates – Marathon runner – Emerald Estates
To say it was good would be an understatement. Everybody – the spectators, organizers, volunteers and runners – put all they had into it. It was mind-boggling how great it was.
It may be one of the most difficult courses in the world. The back stretch on Westside Road was really tough. Any runner that finished it was a winner.
Two things stand out in my mind – it was great to be able to run on home turf and I really liked the idea of increasing participation by holding a half marathon.
Bob Goulet – Spectator – White Gold Estates
I thought it was really great. The endurance and strength the athletes displayed was amazing. To run from the village, along Westside Road and then back again in about an hour is amazing – and that’s what the first three or four runners did.
It would be really good to see another race next year – it’s a good think to get some of the locals in shape.