The Dallas Marathon is starting at 5 a.m. under a forecast that promises wind chills in the 20s, a sharp drop from the mild Saturday weather that saw thousands enjoy the 5K and 10K.
Cold Weather Sets the Stage
While the 5K and 10K runs on Saturday were held in comfortable temperatures, the Sunday marathon is expected to be much colder. The forecast calls for wind chills in the 20s, a change that is already on the minds of participants and spectators alike. The sudden shift is a reminder that even a well-planned event can be affected by nature’s unpredictability.
Runners Prepare for the Chill
Many runners are layering up to stay warm. Tyler Riola, a McKinney resident who will compete in the full marathon, said, “I’ve packed a total of about five different layers that I can peel off all throughout the race.” His preparation is a good example of how participants are adapting to the forecasted conditions.
Community Support Through Our Calling
In response to the colder weather, race organizers have partnered with Our Calling, a nonprofit that is usually closed on Sundays. The organization will open at 5 a.m. to offer hot food and shelter to those living on the streets and anyone else disrupted by the event. In addition, Our Calling plans to collect clothes left along the race route for the city’s homeless. “Most races do that because we’re known for shedding our clothes and it’s, you know, it’s a way to do something for yourself and help others. So it’s a win, win,” said half-marathon runner Julie Charbonnet.
Voices from the Course
Brandy Liddell, who drove from St. Louis to compete in the marathon relay, shared her thoughts on the unexpected weather. “It is. We were not prepared for that,” laughed Liddell. “We thought we were going to get a little warm weather out here, but I’m excited. I heard the crowds out here are really lively.”
Liddell’s comments capture the mix of excitement and surprise that many participants feel as they prepare to run through Dallas’s streets in a sudden wind chill.
Key Takeaways
- The Dallas Marathon’s Sunday start will feature wind chills in the 20s.
- Runners are layering up, with Tyler Riola planning to use five layers.
- Our Calling will open at 5 a.m. to provide hot food, shelter, and collect clothing for the homeless.
- Brandy Liddell and Julie Charbonnet highlighted the community spirit and the importance of preparedness.
The event’s partnership with Our Calling and the focus on participant safety underscore how the Dallas Marathon is adapting to this winter weekend while still celebrating the city’s vibrant running culture.
