With spring right around the corner and warmer days ahead, it’s time to lace up your running shoes and begin training for the ultimate spring marathon. Now only seven weeks away, the Flying Pig Marathon is the perfect race for you.
Whether you are chasing a personal best, searching for a major life achievement or striving to overcome a personal challenge, the Flying Pig Marathon welcomes runners of all kinds. This year, the marathon weekend will be May 1-3. Participants flock to Cincinnati from across the country, are herded into pig pens (corrals) and are supported by volunteers called “grunts,” who squeal all the way down to the “finish swine.”
The Flying Pig Marathon is ranked among the best in the nation, drawing over 40,000 runners and 150,000 spectators. Since its inception, it’s been known to host a plethora of entertainment options and activities, including local rock bands, themed cheer squads, live singers and more. Most notably, however, is the brutal course design, which “flies” you through the seven hills of Cincinnati and over 1,200 feet of elevation gain.
Sam Adams, a senior studying kinesiology and the president of the Miami University Striders Running Club, gives training advice for tackling the challenging hills.
“Definitely don’t discount the hills, because they’ll get to you if you’re not prepared for them,” Adams said. “Also, while you’re racing, drink more water and fluids than you think you need, just so you’re overprepared. While you’re leading up to that, be sure to train with water and fluids, as well.”
Sarah Sizemore, a junior marketing major, member of Gamma Phi Beta and an Honors Ambassador, has run three half marathons, including the Flying Pig and Queen Bee, and is currently training for her second Flying Pig full marathon. She also shared important training and race-day advice.
“There is a lot of stress to fit in training with college, so give yourself flexibility and the ability to move long runs around,” Sizemore said. “Also, rest days, cross training, adequate sleep and proper fueling are just as important for energy and muscle growth.”
The Flying Pig Marathon also extends beyond race day by growing a strong community of dedicated runners who share a deep love for running. Signing up for the Flying Pig not only fosters a deep sense of achievement, but it also creates new friendships and life-long memories.
“I never would have thought that there would be that many people interested in running,” Adams said. “But it’s one of the largest marathons in the country, so it’s really cool to see all the people out there running and having fun.”
Sarah Sizemore also shares how running has created a lasting impact on her life.
“Running gives me so much serotonin and happiness,” Sizemore said. “Marathons can sound daunting, but it has given me a strong sense of community and so many friends to run with. Remember that you are running this race for you, so it’s important to celebrate your training along the way.”
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After running the half-marathon race twice, I can confidently say the atmosphere and enthusiasm around race day are unlike any other. The challenging hills and out-of-this-world support make the Flying Pig not only a special course, but an event of a lifetime.
As you cram your race-day gear in the back of your friend’s car, and make homemade pizza the night before, suddenly, race-day is here. I always loved adding bows to my hair, glitter to my face and picking the best picture-perfect Flying Pig outfit together.
While stepping to the start line feels thrilling, crossing the “finish swine” feels illuminating. I always love seeing the line of goodies and refreshments the race organizers offer, and reuniting with family and friends for post-race debrief and brunch.
As you're about to cross the “finish swine" and earn your race-day medal, Sizemore offers one last piece of advice.
“When you’re almost to the end, take out your earbuds and just listen to the crowd,” Sizemore said. “Take the time to celebrate all your hard work and achievement.”
Maria Buzogany is a junior triple majoring in philosophy, political science and public health. She is an opinion writer for The Miami Student, as well as a member of Associated Student Government, Miami Striders Running Club and the Humanities Student Collective.
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