LA Marathon 2012: Rain Will Be a Major Factor in Today's Race

Mother Nature apparently has no respect for distance runners.

The elements will be harsh during today's Los Angeles Marathon, with rainstorms likely to persist throughout the day. This adds another obstacle to the already grueling 26.2-mile race.

The race begins at 7:24 a.m. PT, with the route starting near Dodger Stadium. From there, racers will head through Hollywood, Beverly Hills, West LA and Santa Monica before finishing on the beach.

Last year, Markos Geneti of Ethiopia shattered the course record with a time of 02:06:35. Given the unfavorable conditions today, I think it's safe to say that his record will stand.

Rain is the kryptonite of distance runners, as slick conditions raise the risk of injury. The rain also has negative effects on the sure-footed, as Fatuma Sado, an Ethiopian runner in the women's race, pointed out.

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"When you run dry, the body is more flexible and relaxable. When you run [in] rain, the body contracts and something happens in the race," she said. 

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David Mandago of Kenya, a favorite in the men's race, is also a little worried about the conditions. His personal best on the course is 02:06:53, just 18 seconds off Geneti's record. Unfortunately, he knows he likely won't approach that number today.

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"You can try to push, but the rain is pushing you backward," said Mandago.

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That being said, Mandago is as prepared as anyone to handle the elements. He's a world-class runner, and I'd be surprised if the rain slowed him too much. Look for him to take home the crown in the men's division, while the rest of the field struggles in the puddles.