Cape Cod Marathon - Run

In short..Started out a bit sore-feet & derriere..by mile 11 ..feet were just..every step was excruciating..mentally tough as I knew that the REAL hills -(that make both the feet & butt hurt more-) were yet to come..ran into market & bought some advil..walked water stops & some on the hills after this..mental attitude adjustment somewhere around 16.accepted no 4 hrs but determined to finish as best could..C2 stuck with me & kept the spirit light & supportive without being overly solicitous..

I did do the long runs..the nutrition/hydration (24 oz 1/2 water & 1/2 powerade)..& 4 GUs, sips of water at every other water stop.. stops (every 2.5 miles).seemed to be ok- one pee stop early on since I didn't get to go before the race..little gi cramping with the GUs but not major, and a bit of calf cramp, some other muscle tightness ...think even if had gone out slower or done a run 5 walk 1 plan would have had the same outcome- I was hoping to stave off the bad pain until mile 18 0r 19, but was pretty miserable from 11 on. was really about persisting despite the pain..get thru it.

space blanket..chat a bit.. to school for chowder & water..should have gotten a massage but line too long..walked back to car..waited for the awards ( a bit long to sit!)as C2 was was getting his "Iron Runner" Award & jacket for doing all the races in the Grand prix series .(.Very cool jacket they got too.)eventually took a quick shower & hit the post race shindig ..that $1.00 Offshore Ale was NECTAR of the Gods!!


I actally felt decently prepared..but have not been able to successfully treat this (relatively)new Plantar Fasciitis issue and still dealing with the Piriformis issue..I knew I would have to run thru "discomfort" but more than 2 hrs of intense pain every step was ...a bit wearing...
The spirit was willing but the flesh was weak!





Though disappointed at my performance, I realise I had set a goal for myself that was rather unrealistic..I am satisfied to have completed the race in a reasonable time for a first marathon .I came away from the experience realising what is involved in running 26.2 miles..and a lot about my own ability to deal with and overcome the obstacles that may present themselves..
The race itself was a beautiful & challenging course on a gorgeous fall day. The volunteers & pre & post race stuff was well done.
Wasn't my best day..but defintely an experience..so again, "all good"..