Philadelphia Marathon - RunMarathon

I had two goals going into this race. The first one was to qualify for Boston with a 3:05 and the second was to break 3 hours in the marathon. I knew to break 3 hours I would need to average about a 6:52/mile. This pace worked for the first 20 miles. In fact, up until that point I felt great! I took in some gatorade at each aid station and took in a gel every 5 miles. After mile 20, my legs started to feel heavy and I could tell cramping was about to occur. I did everything I could to keep my mind off my cramping legs and on getting under 3 hours. After mile 23, I had to start walking. I would walk about 100 feet then run until my Garmin got me to the halfway point of that mile. I did this for miles 23 and 24. At mile 25, I finally was able to get myself in the right place mentally to get my run back. Looking down at my watch I knew I had about 15 minutes to run the last 2 miles. The crowds definitely helped me push through the pain to achieve my goal and go under 3 hours!

Looking back at my splits I noticed I went out a bit too fast. (about 10 - 20 seconds too fast). I need more self control in the beginning miles so I don't hit the wall at mile 20, which sets you up for a miserable last 10K. I would also wear warmer clothes. The race start was about 35 degrees and I wore only a shirt and shorts. Maybe gloves and a hat would be better for next time.

After the race I sat in the grass and stretched. The car was about a mile away, which helped to keep my legs moving and keep them from cramping too much. When I got home, I got on my bike and spun my legs in the easiest gear to get some of the junk out.


My inability to hold back in the beginning of the race.


I absolutely loved this race! Philly is an amazing city and the course takes you through history as you run past all several monuments and museums. The support on the course was spectacular and there were very rarely sections of the course where there were no spectators cheering you on. Parking was easy for the most part and the expo was awesome.