More than 11,000 people enjoyed sunny weather during the 2007 Seattle Marathon on Nov. 25. A number of Islanders participated in the event, including lifetime runner Doug MacLean, who ran the half-marathon with his son, Hunter.

The Island resident, who has completed over 82 marathons in his life and countless half-marathons, said Sunday’s race was one of the best he has run in years.

“I had a fabulous race. I felt fantastic. Everything came together — I was healthy, no injuries, the weather was great and I just felt so strong at the end,” said MacLean, who completed the 13-mile race with a time of 1:28:09.

The 55-year-old took first place in his age group (55-60 years) and 107th overall.

On top of running a fabulous race, MacLean was proud to share the course with his 25-year-old son.

“Hunter has really gotten into road races,” MacLean said. “He felt great today. It’s a tough course — very hilly — but he felt good.”

Although MacLean was about 20 minutes ahead of his son, after finishing the course, he ran back to cheer Hunter on to the end.

It was also a very special race for Islander Kerry Sussex. After six months of chemotherapy treatment for ovarian cancer, Sussex ran in celebration of the cancer’s remission. With her entire family sharing the course, the race was one of the most meaningful in Sussex’s running career.

“It was the most wonderful day to celebrate,” she said. “The weather was just beautiful.”

In addition to her husband, Steve, and her two children, Erica, 25, and Sean, 23, Sussex was supported by long-time friends Marilyn Dierickx, Lisa Gamroth, Megan Brodsky and Sharon Scott. The entire Islander pack ran the race in high spirits. After all, it was a day to celebrate.

“My doctor said, ‘Go for it. If you have that much energy, you’re doing really well,’” Sussex said after the race.

Islanders Carl Platou, Rhonda Glass, Reed Howlette and Marielle Goyette, among others, also ran the half-marathon. Dan Mendez helped pace the marathon for a group of runners targeting eight-minute miles.

For a full list of 2007 Seattle Marathon participants and results, go to: www.seattlemarathon.org