Eugene Marathon goes on despite flu worries

EUGENE, Ore - The Eugene Marathon will go on despite concerns of possible swine flu cases in Lane County.

Race director Richard Maher said he understands the public's concern and they are working with medical staff to follow strict guidelines.

"We feel comfortable we've done everything we possibly can," he said.

There will be teams along the course equipped with hand sanitizers and disposable thermometers. Maher said none of the runners have canceled because of swine flu fears or because they have swine flu themselves.

More than 6,000 people are expected to participate this year. Runners are coming from all over the world, including places like Spain, India and China. But organizers said as far as they know, no racers are coming in from Mexico, where the swine flu has killed more than 100 people.

Racers we talked to didn't seem too hung up on the threat. "I'll be using a lot of hand sanitizer and stay focused and stay to myself," said participant Rachel Ponce.

"Maybe I'll run faster," joked participant Will Kellar. "Try to outrun the flu."

Maher said he believes people who come out for the marathon are healthy people in general.

"We don't want to turn the Eugene Marathon into a worry for someone," he said. "If you feel sick you shouldn't be out here."