Kind of a Pig Deal
Cincinnati’s Flying Pig Marathon powered by P&G marks its 24th running this weekend with a band of very loyal participants leading the way.
Since 1999, the first year of the Pig, about 70 runners and walkers have completed every marathon and are planning on participating in this year’s event. They’re called “streakers” (for their running streak, not anything else) and are valued members of the Flying Pig family.
Two of the streakers, Harvey Lewis and Billie Jo Mendoza, talk about what attracted them to the Pig in the first place, and their advice for anyone wanting to be part of the Marathon:
What made you want to sign up for the very first Flying Pig Marathon?
Harvey Lewis
Harvey: It was the local hometown marathon in its inaugural year and I was excited to jump in. It was nice to just wake up at home and have a short distance to the start line.
Billie Jo Mendoza
Billie Jo: Team in Training, and also it was my first marathon.
How many years did you run the Pig before you decided you were going to do it every year?
Harvey: I’m not really sure. Certainly, by year 10, but I was probably hooked after the first.
Billie Jo: I’d say by the third year I knew it was going to be THE annual event on my calendar.
What is it about the Flying Pig that brings you back every year?
Harvey: I love the energy that goes into all the details. The race staff, volunteers and fans along the route make the race one of the best marathons in the world. The route is really beautiful in May. It’s a high energy event. The medals are a piece of art!
Billie Jo: Not only my commitment to fundraising for LLS, but also that this the best organized and most fun weekend around.
For those who have never run a marathon before, what advice would you give to get people started?
Harvey: Take it all in! Don’t think too much about time. Goal number one, and an outstanding achievement, is finishing. Hydrate consistently from the get go. Jump in a pace group!
Billie Jo: I suggest joining a marathon training group through one of the many charities or local running stores. They will keep you on track with training, motivation and accountability.
Anything else you’d like to add that makes the Flying Pig so special to you?
Harvey: I love seeing all of the other runners each with a personal story and sharing in the Pig adventures. Seeing and hearing many of those stories inspires me into the summer and beyond.
Billie Jo: The Flying Pig will always have my heart mainly because of the wonderful people that organize the event, the volunteers that make it happen and the support of this awesome city and its people.
The 24th annual Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon weekend powered by P&G is April 29–May 1, 2022. Registration is still open for some events at www.flyingpigmarathon.com.