Two runners met an unexpected obstacle during the Bayshore Marathon in Traverse City on Saturday.
The race is normally a straightforward and scenic course, but Joe and Cecelia DeWitt had an unfortunate run-in as they competed in the half marathon. As they were approaching the four mile mark a deer dashed up from the lake side, running down both DeWitts.
Race Director Daniel Siderman was at the finish line when the deer attack happened.
“Strangest thing I’ve ever heard, it was shocking, scary, but ultimately they ended up being okay, which is obviously the most important thing,” said Siderman.
Siderman says that after medical help, the pair tried to continue the race, but were unable to and were driven back to the finish line to receive further help.
“Definitely a first, it was an injured deer that had most likely been hit by a vehicle beforehand and got spooked by the thousands of runners running by,” said Siderman.
Given the strange and unfortunate nature of the run-in, Siderman said that they’ll let the DeWitts get another go next year, waiving their entry fee.
“I thought it was handled tremendously well, from our volunteers, from the aid station, and from the medics on course and the finish line. The participants were in great spirits and were very positive about it, if they want to run next year we’re gonna comp their entries and see what else we can do for them,” said Siderman.
Siderman said the Dewitts were recovering well and are running another half marathon later in June. Cecelia already got back to running, competing in the 3200 meter run at her track meet on Tuesday.
You can read the full story in Thursday’s edition of the Traverse City Record Eagle.