The L.A. Marathon a Race for Unity
A Race Bringing Together a Divided City
The L.A. marathon, beyond its show of elite athleticism also sheds light on the diversity of the city, and is an example of how the city can come together.
It has long been recognized by sociologist and social leaders that sports and sporting events have a way of bringing various types of people together, and for the most part in a positive manner. The Los Angeles Marathon is certainly an event which embodies this idea, from the spectators to the participants people come from all walks of life, and all types of abilities.
The International Importance of Sports
At the launch of the International Year of Sport and Physical Education four years ago, the United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan in a speech recognized sports as being “a universal language.” He went on to say, “At its best it can bring people together, no matter what their origin, background, religious beliefs, or economic status.” Everything about the statement of Mr. Annan describes what occurs at the L.A. marathon as it brings together people of all backgrounds.
From All Walks of Life
Among the 25,000 runners that showed to participate in the 23rd annual L.A. Marathon on Sunday March 2, were runners of all ages and from all walks of life. There were some who completed the race from in a wheelchair, a handful of men and women who have been competing in the marathon for the last 23 years, and a few who stood out in the 26.2 mile race including Elvis clad runners, with music in tow, Marilyn Monroe, and a man with Chihuahua under his arm.
A Unique Race
The annual event which began 23 years ago in 1986 in Los Angeles with a little under 11,000 runners participating has more then doubled in size. What sets the L.A, Marathon aside from the more prestigious Marathons is, they allow anyone to register for the race. Where as Marathons such as Boston’s are mainly limited to qualifying runners. Being an open event certainly gives the L.A. Marathon a different feel as there are many first time racers, some who endure certain physical disabilities, people there solely for fun, and those who are of the elite athlete status.
Capturing the City
The turnout of the race isn’t the only aspect that has changed over the last 23 year, the route itself has recently been modified to include many of L.A.’s diverse regions such as East L.A,. This has been a hot topic of discussion as some say it shows the less then desirable side of the city, City Councilman Tom LaBonge who was a part of the re-routing process explained to NBC news, “We were able to stretch out a run around Hollywood primarily with a finish in downtown, to where it would capture all of the city,”
For Los Angeles, a city which is often better known for it’s divisions and downfalls, is perhaps viewed in a different light at the Annual Marathon. As the diversity of the city is celebrated and enjoyed through all who attend the event.
