FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Grandma's Marathon Increases Security Again For 2018 Events
(Duluth, MN) - Since 2013, the security protocols surrounding Grandma's
Marathon have more than doubled. Some of the most noticeable measures were
activated last year with gravel-filled trucks blocking Canal Park Drive,
along with sand-filled barrels and barricades preventing access to the
racecourse in other locations from start to finish.
Most of the security measures surrounding marathon weekend aren't as
noticeable, like the K-9 units from around Minnesota that are here and
working before 4:00 a.m. on race day, or the undercover officers that blend
in with the crowds throughout the weekend.
The 42nd annual weekend of events will continue that safety progression.
Runners may notice more vehicle blockades due to the reroute around
Superior Street construction, as well as other areas up the north shore.
The not-so-noticeable additions this year will include air support from the
Minnesota State Patrol, who will be employing their technology enhanced
Cirrus aircraft to ensure efficient traffic management as well as to
enhance runner and spectator security.
"It's all designed with runner safety in mind," states Shane Bauer,
executive director at Grandma's Marathon. "We're very fortunate to have
such an incredible team here in Duluth. It's led by our partners at the
Duluth Police Department, but includes close to twenty other agencies from
the local townships all the way up to the federal level."
Lieutenant Chad Nagorski with Duluth Police, the incident commander for
Grandma's Marathon events, agrees with that sentiment. "The relationships
we've built with other agencies around Duluth's biggest annual event and
the support from the community is remarkable. It allows us to put together
an efficient security plan for a smooth weekend of events and provide a
great experience for all the runners."
Together, Grandma's Marathon directors and Duluth Police officers attend a
safety and security summit with the biggest marathon events from around the
U.S. The goal of the conference is to share tactics and identify the best
security practices across all areas of an event weekend, many of which are
applied here in Duluth. One of the common themes among all special events
is awareness.
"As always, we encourage spectators and volunteers, in addition to the
runners, to have fun but be aware of your surroundings. If you see
something, say something," says Bauer.
There will be security checkpoints for spectators around the finish line,
and drones are not allowed anywhere near the racecourse with the exception
of the official Grandma's Marathon drones marked by the security team.
Backpacks are discouraged and if abandoned, will be immediately seized by
security officials. Marathon organizers advise you to bring only what you
need and use clear bags. No automobiles, bicycles, baby joggers, inline
skates, pets or unofficial participants are allowed on the racecourse.
Grandma's Marathon events get underway with the Essentia Health Fitness
Expo and race packet pick-up at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 14. Visit
grandmasmarathon.com for the full weekend schedule of events, spectator
tips, runner tracking and other information, or download the 2018 Grandma's
Marathon app. The 42nd annual Grandma's Marathon is presented by Toyota and
Members Cooperative Credit Union.
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