Despite living in California for eight years, I am eternally amazed by the stunning, natural beauty of the Golden State. The soaring trees; the rugged coastline; the deep azure of the sky. All of these awe-inspiring elements are united at the Big Sur Marathon, which I ran nearly seven years ago.

I’ve run 13 marathons, and I can honestly say I remember more moments from Big Sur than any other 26.2’er. Huddling with other runners in the low-key starting area—a tree-lined stretch of road near Big Sur. Leaning in and resolutely grinding my way up the steady 2-mile climb toward Hurricane Point starting at Mile 10 on the point-to-point course that heads north to Carmel along the Pacific Coast Highway. Turning my head countless times to marvel at the massive cliffs dropping off to runners’ left into the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Listening to the melodious music being played on the grand piano (!!) transported every year to the famous Bixby Bridge at the midway point.

Looking toward the distant crashing waves at Mile 15, and making the decision to “believe, believe, believe” I could persevere. Achingly wanting to stop for fresh strawberries near Mile 23, but faring forward. Pressing on the gas in the final half mile, before exuberantly waving my hat over my head as I approached the finish line and yelling, “I’m doing it!!” to a spectating friend.  All washed in my mind by bright California sunshine. (Not ideal racing weather but, dang, it made for a beautiful day!)

 

Thanks to our partners at GU Energy, one lucky BAMR will win an entry to the race that will take her breath away in more ways than one. And if you don't anticipate being in marathon shape before the April 30 race day, you can chose to use your FREE ENTRY on the Big Sur 21-miler, 10.6-miler, 12K, or 5K. The views will be just as magnificent no matter which distance you choose.

As if the race itself weren't enough, our lucky BAMR will also take home a GU tech T-shirt, her choice of a GU hat (can be trucker, run hat, visor, or straw), a box of GU-dies (gels, chews, Stroopwafels, flask, and 15-serving pouch), AND a $25 Visa gift card for her choice of post-race treat.

SERIOUSLY. This giveaway is GUUU-rate!

(Even if you don't win this giveaway, you can get GU for 40 percent off!)

Something to keep in mind:

Given the terrain, the Big Sur Marathon is not a place to PR -- and has a stringent 6-hour cut off for runners taking on 26.2. If that sounds like too much of a challenge, no worries: You can still enter to win! Just pick one of the races that is a more manageable distance.

Come on, BAMR! Ready to run Big (Sur)?

To enter: Go to this page at GU Energy, enter some easy deets, and lace up your shoes!

 

The fine print: This running giveaway sweepstakes is open to those over 18 and residents of the United States and Canada. Part of a series of weekly running giveaways, it begins on 2/15/17 and ends on 2/21/17. One winner will be chosen randomly by GU Energy and notified by email on 2/22/17. One entry per person. The value of this prize is $350. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Void where prohibited by law.