Runners took their mark at the Idaho Falls MAD Marathon

The Idaho Falls MAD Marathon took place Saturday morning. Bill’s Bike and Run sponsored the four-race event, with all proceeds benefiting the local Court Appointed Special Advocates, or CASA.

Lezhai Gulbransen, organizer of MAD Marathon, said,”MAD stands for Making a Difference. Our goal with MAD marathon is to make a difference within our community, as well as for those that come participate.”

When charities in the area need help raising awareness, MAD Marathon is there to help. Every year for the past five years, they choose a charity to partner with for the annual fun run. CASA was chosen this year.

“They were chosen because they need awareness. They need the volunteers to come and help. They don’t exist without volunteers,” said Gulbransen.

This year over 30 states represented in the marathon, half marathon, 5K and children’s fun run.

“Every year we’ve grown bigger and bigger and we get our message out. It’s not just a charitable run, it’s a quality run,” Gulbransen said.

One of New York’s finest, Officer Brandon Barcomb has been working to run a marathon in all 50 states while pushing his daughter Addy in a stroller.

Barcomb said, “It’s 100 bucks for a self-guided tour; 26 miles or 13, whatever you choose. It’s just a nice life experience.”

For others, marathons are more than just a scenic tour.

Marlin Ordway said,”In 2008 I had gotten up to a weight of 268 pounds. I was very uncomfortable. My wife is very healthy and inspired me to do a 5K race. I started training for it and lost some weight. Things were just progressing and races started to become easier so I started doing distances. Ended up racing 38 marathons.”

The runners do it for the cause, but know it’s a personal journey as well.

Scott Voyles won the marathon, finishing with a time of 2 hours, 50 minutes, and 32 seconds.

We congratulate all those who participated and hope to see them again next year.