Don't end marathon

I have heard the tragic news about this year's Salt Lake Marathon quite possibly being the last. As a seven-time veteran of this race, I ask that this decision not be made without the thoughtful input from its constituency.

Part of the reason for choosing this marathon over another is the badge of honor that one earns by completing what is inarguably one of the most challenging in the country.

The Salt Lake Marathon will never have a huge field. The challenging nature of this course is self-limiting. When I run the Salt Lake Marathon, I know I'm in the company of the finest, most committed marathoners Utah has to offer.

Anyone who has ever run this marathon and felt the overwhelming emotion as he or she trods past the 25-mile marker on Main Street as 100,000 people cheer will agree what a special marathon this one is.

Kent C. Griffiths

Sandy