Local students flooded the Virginia Beach oceanfront for the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend, supporting their school’s blue and gold colors and celebrating community spirit.
The multi-day event took place from March 20-22 and offered five races including the full marathon, half marathon, 8K, final mile and a leprechaun dash.
The weekend sold out with a total of 25,000 participants, according to Running USA.
“The race was extremely festive, full of everything St. Patrick’s Day related,” junior Joshua Liedel said. “There were people dressed up, jokes placed around the course and so much more.”
While the race weekend can serve as a first-time milestone, it is a continuation of a lifelong tradition for many.
“Shamrock Race Weekend is very important to me, as it is something I have competed in ever since I was a child,” junior Brady Curulla said.
Not only did these students strive to win, but some of them exceeded their expectations.
Brady finished first in the 15-19 age group for the half marathon with a time of 1:22:54, and Joshua finished second with a time of 1:23:39.
For others, like senior Aubrey Spagnoli, the motivation to run their best time was contagious.
“I wanted to run the race to see how far I could push myself and also get that sense of accomplishment,” Aubrey said.
Whether running for a personal best or a personal milestone, these students eventually found themselves striding toward the same high-energy celebration on the boardwalk.
“Crossing the line, I felt waves of accomplishment and happiness, being greeted by a medal and various snacks from volunteers,” Joshua said.
