Four runners became the first Drumheller Marathoners at this year’s race, joined by a record 21 half marathoners. The race, which I have organized annually over the last four years, occurs entirely around a fountain at the University of Washington. Officially, 42 people ran 4382 laps, and that doesn’t include laps from the many who didn’t register.

The course, which I measured again this year, is the smallest footprint road marathon in the United States. It becomes Seattle’s flattest marathon (3 meters net downhill, actually) and one of only three courses in the city.

Two runners in athletic gear running past a circular fountain with ducks perched on the edge, in front of a large brick building on the University of Washington campus

Yours-truly and Joe running with the Drumheller ducklings. (Photo: Hannah Lee)