Lisa Landrum ran the Big Sur International Marathon 25 years ago. This past spring, she got the opportunity to run again as a Recover Ambassador and reflects on her journey.
In 1998, I ran the Big Sur International Marathon as a 20-something who knew so little about so much. On April 30, 2023 I had the opportunity to run that beautiful coastline from Big Sur to Monterey again: 25 years later, to the exact day. Luckily, this time around, I knew a little more about a little more.
Neither I nor the running industry thought much about sustainability in the late 90s. Mail in registration forms, big cotton race shirts, and excess water cups were part of the expo and race experience. Did I think the coast was pretty? Of course. Did any thoughts cross my mind about my role in keeping it that way? Not one.
Without a doubt, there is still work to be done, but we have come a long way from the excesses of 1998 to the conscientiousness of 2023. It is clearly evident that industry leaders like the Big Sur International Marathon are doing their part in keeping that beautiful coastline pristine and healthy for all of its inhabitants: human, wildlife, and nature. Thanks to Recover, all race shirts are now made of 100% recycled materials. The race expo is the launching pad for the Green Team, also sponsored by Recover, who sticks around all weekend to ensure participants know how to properly dispose of waste. This year instead of throwing a cup on the course around aid stations, I ran with my water bottle and volunteers filled it from a water pitcher.
Running along miles of rugged, stunning coastline is certainly something that draws attention to the natural beauty that surrounds us on a daily basis. Now as a parent with kids who will go out into this big world, I am much more aware of the intentional daily decisions I make and the messages that it sends to those around me for a more sustainable tomorrow. Recover is leading the charge to make that message louder and clearer to the masses: we all play an active role in impacting our planet each and every day. I’m really proud to play a role on the Recover Team who is ensuring that the message we're spreading is a positive one.
