Marine Corps Marathon - Run

Great course, tons of spectators. Had a hitch in my stomach starting at mile 14 that wouldn't go away. Started running 9 minutes walking 1 min. It would go away during the walk. Legs felt as strong as they have ever been for a run, the only difference was I could tell I didn't do as many long runs (16-20 mi) because the pains I normally get at 18-20, came at 15 miles. Eventually was wlking about 25% of the time from miles 18-23 and 50% from 23-25.

Run with someone, it got really bored and lonely at about 1/2 way. At least I saw Brad and Ron a few times on the bikes, which really helped break up the boredom. Aslo, I'm not the most self motivating person, so it helps to have someone push me along.

None, the finishing area was packed and hot. I started getting light headed and felt sick... major claustrophia, so I got through there and went a layed under a tree for 1/2 hr. Funny how I feel fine the whole race and then feel sick trying to pick up a banana and a gatorade.


Lack of distance training since the Ironman


I had some major run demons that needed to be resolved on this course. Each of the 4 marathons I have done have had a slower time than the previous, so that was starting to get to me. Also, this is the race I did 2 years ago and walked the whole 2nd half of the race. Finally, after walking the majority of the marathon at the Ironman, I wanted to show myself again I can run these things, which I did and besides the joint pain which one always gets in a marathon eventually, it felt pretty easy. My HR was always low and breathing was slow and steady. So all in all, a good race to go into off season with.