Photo's by Tone Coughlin
Published: September 16, 2023
In a stunning display of athleticism and determination, Gabriela Rueda has etched her name in the annals of NorthShore Inline Marathon history. On a brisk Sunday morning, under the crisp Minnesota sky, Rueda blazed through the course, shattering the longstanding women's elite skater record. Her finishing time of 1:04:54.79 not only secured her a place at the top but also marked an incredible milestone for the sport.
The previous record, held steadfast since 1998 by Heather Gunnin, stood at an impressive 1:10:26. It was a mark that seemed nearly insurmountable, a testament to Gunnin's exceptional skill and endurance. Yet, as the saying goes, records are meant to be broken, and Rueda emerged as the embodiment of that spirit.
Karoll Arias, a formidable contender in her own right, was hot on Rueda's heels, finishing just a fraction of a second behind at 1:04:55.09. The race between these two elite skaters was a nail-biting affair, a testament to the caliber of athletes that grace the NorthShore Inline Marathon.
Tori Carter, though not quite able to match the pace of Rueda and Arias, showcased her own prowess with a respectable time of 1:15:01.03. Her dedication and hard work were evident as she navigated the course with precision and skill.
On the men's side, the competition was equally fierce. Hamilton Patino, displaying incredible speed and technique, blazed across the finish line at an astonishing 1:02:08.19. His performance left spectators in awe, setting a new bar for male skaters in the elite category.
Viktor Hald Thorup, not to be outdone, secured a solid second place with a time of 1:02:37.22. While he trailed Patino, the margin was a mere 29.03 seconds, a testament to the remarkable talent on display.
Hayden Groves, the youngest among the top three male skaters at just 19 years old, demonstrated wisdom beyond his years with a time of 1:02:40.46. His presence on the podium was a clear indication of the bright future that lies ahead in the world of inline skating.
The 2023 NorthShore Inline Marathon was not just a competition, but a celebration of the human spirit, of pushing boundaries and redefining what is possible. Gabriela Rueda's record-breaking run will be etched in the memories of all who witnessed it, a testament to the power of dedication, training, and the sheer love of the sport.
As the sun rose over Lake Superior, casting a golden hue over the finish line, it was evident that this year's marathon had etched a new chapter in its storied history. Records were shattered, barriers were broken, and a new generation of elite skaters emerged, leaving us eagerly anticipating what the future holds for this incredible sport.
Both Gabriela & Karoll are sponsored by Powerslide Racing & Shea Stokes Racing. Please congratulate them on their achievement