The Banana Break
Running the Prairie Fire Marathon? Look for the bananas. Supporting a runner? come join us. We'll be out from before the first runners until the last one passes.
About 7 AM to 1:30ish PM
Around mile 21
How to spot us: You'll see banana signs about a mile out. Then look for the banana party.
Spectators: Park nearby and walk in. Please stay off the course.
About Brad
Brad was a prolific marathoner, as well a husband, a father, and a friend. He ran at least 21 marathons, including the Prairie Fire, Chicago, and Boston. He knew the late miles were where you would either make your goal or miss it. A little help at the right moment goes a long way.
We are starting Brad's Banana Break to keep doing what he did for so many people: show up, cheer loud, and help someone finish strong. If you knew Brad, come join us. If you didn't, grab a banana.
Volunteer and cheer along
No experience needed, just enthusiasm. Come for an hour or stay all morning.
🍌 Banana crew
Slice and hand out bananas (gloves provided)
📣 Cheer squad
Cowbells, signs, costumes, noise
⛺ Setup and teardown
Either early morning or early afternoon
📸 Photos and video
Capture the day for Brad's family and friends
Banana facts
Why banana, late in the race?
- Half a banana has about 14 grams of carbs, fast fuel for tired legs.
- It also packs around 210 mg of potassium, which your muscles use to keep firing.
- Glucose, fructose and starch in one peel. Nature's energy gel.
- In a study of trained cyclists, half a banana every 15 minutes fueled performance as well as a sports drink.
- Botanically, a banana is a berry. A strawberry is not.
- Banana plants aren't trees. They're giant herbs.
- Bananas are a tiny bit radioactive, thanks to all that potassium. Still safe. Still delicious.