2012 ATM Great Experience

I had a fantastic experience at the 2012 Army Ten Miler (ATM). In my mind, the race distinguishes itself from similar running events due to the level of spectator support, the ease of the route through our Nation’s capital, and the level of participation from our service men and women. Throughout race, spectators lined up along the route to cheer their friends and family on toward the finish line. These fans held signs up, wore costumes, and made sure the runners not only saw, but also felt their support. The race route ran directly through our Nation’s capital. The course was not only amazingly scenic, but it was relatively flat. Runners started and ended at the race at Pentagon after moving through the National Mall. Upon reflection, the courses speed had a significantly positive impact on my time. I dropped approximately two minutes off my PR - completing the race in just under 70 minutes. Lastly, our service members’ participation in the event was truly awe-inspiring. Not only did I saw several senior leaders at the event cheering on the race participants. I also saw a large number of Soldiers taking part in the festivities before and after the event. One of the most moving sights I saw was a former Soldier running the race with a prosthetic leg. If you haven’t been to an ATM as a spectator or participant – it is worth breaking your routine, braving the D.C. traffic and seeing the magic that only the ATM can produce.