The way to view the Hartford Marathon is perhaps not by standing next to the medic tent just past the finish line. Within the span of only one hour, I watched about a dozen runners receive some variety of attention from professionals, which is, of course, better than seeing them not get the care they needed. Athletes who appeared to be over 50 seemed to know their limitations better than those younger.
Past the rows of water fountains where runners were dropping, athletes received medals for completion of the route.This, and near the arch, were much happier viewing spots.
Later that evening, people gathered once again at Real Art Ways to add lights, streamers, and other decorations to their bicycles. Materials have always been provided at no cost, and there is no charge to participate in the leisurely group ride. This time, the ride stayed entirely inside of Hartford, instead of jutting into West Hartford or East Hartford. The almost eleven-mile loop included surprises at three stops– a performance by Sea Tea Improv at the UConn Law School, Beat City Hoops at Heaven, and a drum circle at Trinity College.
Local artist Anne Cubberly (not pictured) turned a shopping cart tricycle into a dragon (tail not pictured). Before its life as a dragon, this shopping cart trike has been used to cart children to school in West Hartford.
Scruffy — nine years old — is pictured below. Scruffy rides on a bicycle, powered by its owner. Besides appearing at the Real Ride and Critical Mass, Scruffy has ridden in the Five Boro Bike Tour.
Riders were provided with water and d.i.y. s’mores back at Real Art Ways.