Marathoner Still Not Sure Why Spectators Cheered So Loud for Him Specifically
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A local runner remains puzzled as he tries to determine why spectators cheered so enthusiastically for him during a marathon yesterday, Dumb Runner has learned.
The runner, Robert W. Hutson, said the support began even before the race started and continued after he’d crossed the finish line.
“The cheers and applause started shortly after I removed my jacket before entering the starting corral,” Hutson told Dumb Runner in a phone interview. “And once we got going, I’d say at least half a dozen spectators per mile singled me out”
Hutson, who has run six marathons as well as numerous half-marathons and 5Ks, said he’s never enjoyed such personal attention during a race. Adding to the mystery, Hutson noted that most of his fans appeared to be teenage boys and young men.
“They were pointing, shouting, clapping, hooting, you name it,” he said. “Several jumped out to take my picture.”
“Who knows why?”
Whatever the reason, Hutson said, he appreciated the support, which propelled him to a finishing time of 4:20—a personal best.
“The cheering was strange, for sure,” he added. “But it was nice.”
