Happy 250th birthday America!
I hope everyone stayed safe and cool over the long 4th of July weekend.
It was a last minute deal, but Jane and I decided to spend Independence Day in Seward.
As we were packing up to make the 100 mile drive, Jane said she better grab a coat.
I wondered how many people in the Lower 48 said those words on the 4th.
Why Seward you ask. Well, Seward is the busiest little town in all of Alaska on the 4th. It’s not only for the fireworks and parade, but it’s the Mt Marathon race that draws people from all over the world.
It’s the oldest mountain race in North America (97 years and counting) and is known as the toughest 5k on the planet. 3022 feet up a mountain and then down is not for everyone.
The start and finish of the race happens in downtown Seward. The first real test of the race is making it through the Chute at the base of the mountain. Going up is tough, coming down is even harder. It’s a spot that Jane and I like to watch when we attend.
How fitting is this. The Seward hospital is on the route of the race. All I could think about as I looked up to the peak of the mountain is that if I ever ran this race, I would probably end up in the ER.
When it was all said and done, Klaire Rhodes won the women’s race for the second straight year. Her time was 50:31.
David Norris won the men’s race in a time of 42:30. It was his sixth straight victory.
My hat goes off to over 1000 men, women, and children who competed this year. I admire their strength, skill, and determination.
So what’s the deal on fishing? Any reports?
The second runs of Kenai king and red salmon have just begun. The early sonar counts have been encouraging. Next week I hope to be sharing fishing photos and stories.
In the meantime, no fish photos means more animal photos!
I’ll end this week’s blog on a somber note.
For those of you who know, you know. You are missed, Peg.
The Best Laid Plans of Mice and Men