NatNews

Today, approximately 30,000 individuals—including multiple members of the White Rock Running Co-op—will toe the line at the Boston Marathon in hopes of making what is likely one of their longtime goals come true: crossing that famous finish line on Boylston Street.

This is a vast increase in participation from the 18 runners who took part in the first Boston race in 1897. For many WRRC members, the Boston Marathon holds special significance.

“Boston is the pinnacle of marathon running,” Rob Buwalda, who is running his fifth Boston Marathon today, said. “To be accepted and run the event means you’ve excelled at the distance. The first Boston is very special. Bring your family, and enjoy the moment. Past that, there is a sense of belonging and [enjoyment of] the pomp and pageantry.” 

This year’s race is historically important, as it is the 50th anniversary of women officially being allowed to participate. Today, women make up more than 40 percent of the runners in the Boston Marathon.

Paige Ryder, who has been running with the WRRC for a little more than a year, has never run Boston but hopes that it is something in her future. She said that qualifying for this esteemed race validates the hard work that people put in for months—and sometimes even years.

“To me, it’s the ‘I made it’ race,” she said. “I think because it’s so hard to get into, yet it’s possible for a non-elite runner to race. It’s truly the most hyped race in the U.S., so it makes you want to get there.”

You can track your favorite runners here.

As the weather continues to give Dallas area residents a slight glimpse of spring before triple-digit temperatures approach, individuals across the metroplex tend to find themselves spending more time on patios after work and/or on the weekends.

Patios can provide relaxing atmospheres and escapes from the stresses caused by the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re seeking an enjoyable brunch, dinner with a swanky vibe, a happy hour to forget about your busy workday, or simply making memories with friends, a patio can often be a perfect place to fill your cup—both literally and figuratively.

For White Rock Running Co-op IT specialist Josh Odegard, patio time offers an outlet for him to unwind and enjoy the company of others amidst his rather busy lifestyle.

“I would absolutely love to have dedicated time every day for a nap or to lounge on the couch, but I do not have that luxury,” he said. “So, patio time is kind of a compromise for me. I get to spend time with friends, I get to partake in libations, and I also get to recharge my body battery on my Garmin.”

The women over at Dallasites101 put together a helpful list of what they believe are the top patios in Dallas. Odegard, however, does not believe that there is one best patio in the area. He said that while he personally prefers the Loon, there are a variety of other bars and restaurants that serve as viable options.

“Different patios have different vibes,” Odegard said. “The Katy Trail Ice House patio is one of the more laid-back patios with plenty of space. They also allow people to bring in their dogs—an added perk for people like me who love to play with other people’s dogs. They also have a great view of the Katy Trail, where I can watch other people who are out for a run. It makes me feel like I am almost being active. And the booty shorts are not awful, either. To be clear, I mean on the women, not the booty shorts on the men.”

WEEKLY PHOTO OP

Finn and Willie Finke are ready to make you smile