A few hours before Grandma’s Marathon even began, the Northland experienced heavy rain, strong winds, and hail. That didn’t stop Families, Fans and athletes from lining the streets to cheer on the runners. But why do spectators come back year after year for this one-of-a-kind race?

Athletes from around the world compete in Grandma’s each year. It takes several months of training to prepare for the race. One helpful boost to get runners across the finish line is the cheers from fans. Kelcie Johnson was there to support her husband by handing out water as he ran the full marathon.

“You start to enjoy it every year, despite the weather, despite everything going on. My kids love handing him the water when he comes by and cheering him on. It gets families involved,” Johnson said. “It gets friends in the community involved and it’s something that if you can manage waking up early, can be something you like.”

The weather for Grandma’s can be unpredictable, but one consistent factor is the heartfelt connection between families, fans and athletes. Sarah Enos traveled all the way from Nashville, Tennessee, because she and her family love to celebrate the amazing achievements made by these athletes. Sarah says one of the biggest hurdles for a lot of people during the half and full marathon is running up Lemon Drop hill.

“Lemon drop hill is super hard, so you’re encouraging them right as they go up a really big hill here. It’s fun to be able to encourage people. To see people with the energy and the spirit they have behind doing it. It’s really hard and they did it, I’m happy to be here.”

Gabriel Ehlers-Nelson participated in last year’s race. He recommends for future marathon runners to not overwork yourself and keep a steady pace.

“So it’s probably when you’re finally coming around to the finish where you’re really feeling it. Around mile 20, you always question why you’re doing it. Being a spectator is maybe better, because you just get to cheer everyone on,” Ehlers-Nelson said. “You don’t question why you’re doing it. I think the biggest thing is just kind of lock into your pace. Don’t go out too fast. Know that you still have to have a little bit left in the tank when you get to mile 25.”

There is always a continued need for more volunteers to help out every year. Also for more stories about Grandma’s Marathon you can read more here.