Vancouver Marathon!

This past weekend, my husband and I joined a couple friends in the sea of supporters lining the streets of Vancouver for the city’s annual marathon. Not just to enjoy the energy of the event, but to cheer on one of our best friends; Hugo!

Hugo’s one of those people who quickly becomes a big part of your life. We met just over a year and a half ago, and since then he’s become family. From late-night video games to hiking adventures and dancing our way many late night through music events, He’s been part of so many of our favorite memories lately. Watching him take on a marathon was just another reminder of how lucky we are to know him and the friend group we have become a part of.

The day was absolute chaos in (mostly!) the best way. So many people, so much energy, and various signs everywhere to support the runners. Finding Hugo in the crowd of runners was like playing a sweaty, very hectic game of Where’s Waldo. But when we finally we spotted him, it made the waiting and wading through crowds all worth it.

One of the best parts of the day was seeing the creativity on the course. Some runners were in full costume, from superheroes to silly themed outfits. One guy ran in a banana suit! It added this unexpected, joyful energy to the race and gave everyone in the crowd something to laugh about between spotting their people.

Even in something as intense as a marathon, there was room for fun.

Just before the final stretch, two of our friends Justin and Kia even ran a quick kilometer with him to keep him motivated and smiling before the finish line. That little act of friendship felt like the spirit of the whole day.

Strangers were cheering for strangers. Every runner, no matter how fast or slow, got encouragement from the sidelines. There was a city-wide “you got this!” energy in the air and honestly, it was heartwarming.

I snapped photos of the signs, the crowd, the runners, and of course, Hugo mid-race. Not a formal session by any means—just little bits of life as it was unfolding. It reminded me how important it is to capture not just the big milestones, but the moments in between: the grit, the effort, the joy, the love.

Seeing so many people try their best, and so many others show up just to support them, was incredibly inspiring. Hugo’s mom and sister made the trip from out of town just to see him race! They were so proud and happy for him and his accomplishment.

We also had Bubba with us (my dog-in-law), who we were puppy-sitting for the weekend. Bubba absolutely loves Hugo and was clearly very confused about why his favorite person was running past and not stopping for pets. It made the whole day feel even more like a family affair.

Hugo crushed it. And the city did too!

Thanks for reading! :)