Runners, parade-goers enjoy festivities despite heat

Just before the 2022 Alaska Airlines Seafair Torchlight Parade, hundreds of runners participated in the Torchlight 5K and 8K. Several runners caught up with KIRO 7 before the races and they all said the heat was no joke.

“A friend told me, ‘did you know it was going to be 90 degrees?’ But I said … oh well. It will be fine,” Kim Schmal said.

“No, she did warn me. But it is pretty hot out here today,” Katie Lewis said.

Schmal was with her friend Lewis for the race. They said that while it was hot, they were happy to be there since SeaFair is such a big event.

“I’ve always wanted to be a part of SeaFair and I thought ‘hey, why not spend the Saturday down at Seattle Center, come by and see all the people,’” Schmal said.

Steve Ngtich is a professional runner who told us that while the heat can be a challenge, it can also make a runner better.

“Pretty hot, but we work with how things are. And I like challenges. So, it’s part of life,” Ngtich said.

But before the race and parade, many people were doing everything they could to stay cool: drinking plenty of water, hanging out in the shade, even some families playing at the large fountain at the Seattle Center.

“The most important thing is, listen to your body. Don’t overdo it. If you need to slow down, definitely slow down. Take a break, walk. Find some shade if you need to cool off. But definitely drink water,” Schmal said.

Even with the heat, Lewis and everyone agreed that SeaFair 2022 was a success for them.

“Being surrounded by all of these people, that’s enough energy to get you anywhere. So, this is going to be great,” Lewis said.