Run for the Lakes: Not your run-of-the-mill marathon
Even with a chilly morning start, this year's Run for the Lakes Marathon seemed like a tropical paradise compared with last year's snowstorm run. In fact, some water stops along the route had Caribbean themes, complete with flower leis, grass skirts and tiki hut water bars, as if trying to trick the mind into a warmer state.
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The second annual Run for the Lakes Marathon included a scenic route around seven lakes and sections of the Paul Bunyan Trail.
Brainerd Dispatch/Kelly Humphrey
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In the second annual Run for the Lakes, sponsored by the Brainerd Jaycees, about 400 runners participated in either the half marathon, full marathon or relay marathon. The route wound around seven area lakes, with the start and finish in downtown Nisswa.
Gracie Onstad of Champlin cheered on her mom, Lori, who was running her first marathon Saturday at the Run for the Lakes Marathon.
Brainerd Dispatch/Kelly Humphrey
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It didn't take long for racers to warm up, however. Articles of clothing were shed along the route as the day grew warm.
Monty Steffens grabbed a glass of water on the run during the Run for the Lakes Marathon Saturday.
Brainerd Dispatch/Kelly Humphrey
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At the finish line, racers - bent over in exhaustion - got medals draped around their necks and an emergency thermal blanket over their shoulders. Then, like silver-caped super heroes, they cheered on their compatriots and basked in the knowledge that they had completed their feat.