Guard members run race in combat boots

PORTLAND – The Maine Marathon once again featured National Guard soldiers plodding along in combat boots while other runners zoomed along in lightweight shoes on Sunday.

The exercise was aimed at spotlighting the sacrifice of the eight Maine National Guard soldiers who have died in Iraq or Afghanistan.

“It’s a very, very, very small price to pay,” Staff Sgt. Jonathan Boubel, who works in the Norway armory, said before the race.

All told, more than 100 soldiers signed up to participate. A dozen or more were expected to complete the entire 26.2-mile course, while others were expected to march in relay teams covering one or more legs of the route.

Boubel, for one, knew what to expect Saturday after he and a buddy each completed half of the marathon, finishing in eight hours.

“My wife had to peel my boots off me,” he said.

This year, he trained for the race, running on his own and attracting stares by running while wearing boots and a pack.

The Maine Marathon began and ended on Portland’s Baxter Boulevard, between Forest Avenue and Preble Street. The event was certified by USA Track and Field and is a qualifier race for the Boston Marathon.

The Maine National Guard planned to set up four first aid stations along the route, mostly to handle foot problems.