BMO Vancouver Marathon sign perfectly sums up mid-race emotions

The marathon can be a roller coaster of emotions. After all, 42.2K is a long way.

Spotted on the 2017 BMO Vancouver Marathon course was depiction of thoughts that may pass through a runner’s mind as well as what physical struggles may arise mid-race. At English Bay, one of the most picturesque points on course, photographer Jeff Bell was able to capture a young girl’s sign as she cheered on runners and walkers.

On the poster were a variety of emojis at various points of the marathon. Of course, a smiling emoji is featured near the start. By halfway, runners may still be feeling strong. Then, around mile 22 (35K), according to the sign, things get challenging. (Physical and/or mental fatigue may set in even earlier.)

Runners may have seen the sign between 30-32K before looping around Stanley Park, which comprises much of the latter part of the race. Sunday’s BMO Vancouver Marathon featured more than 3,600 finishers with many more taking part in the 8K, half-marathon, relay and kids run.

Miss Canadian Running‘s 2017 BMO Vancouver Marathon coverage? See links below

– Love is in the air: Mid-race marriage at the BMO Vancouver Marathon
– Top Canadian results from the 2017 BMO Vancouver Marathon
– Evan Dunfee walks Vancouver Marathon, beats all but 132 runners
– Out-of-town race director, off little sleep, PBs by 7 minutes at Vancouver Half
– VIDEO: Catch the finish of the 2017 BMO Vancouver Half-Marathon