Ditched the HRM for this run - I just wanted to get out and run and enjoy the day, and frankly, that sucker seems to mess with my breathing. Meandered up to the start (hazard of so many people running), gave B a smooch and sent him on his way (he ended up finishing in 43:28)and managed to settle into a nice comfortable pace straightaway. Best first mile EVER - 10:1010:15, and just smooth the entire way, which is really unusual for me - first miles I usually am a big mess.

Ditched the t-shirt about halfway through mile 2, walked about 15 seconds on a couple occasions (stitch in my side - HATE THAT), but still feeling good and smooth in my pace. They put the water station just before the mile 3 mark - I was starting to wonder if I'd suddenly gotten VERY slow because we're going along and I am sure I've done 2.5 miles and still...no water. I'm starting to look for water fountains outside buildings. Finally get there, walked the water station, discover we're to mile 3 - woohoo! - finish about 3/4 of the water and dumped the rest on my head. That felt really, REALLY good.

Somewhere near mile 4 there was a little girl on the side of the course, and she wanted to high five the runners, so I obliged - too cute, she was just thrilled, and I was totally tickled by it. Mile 4 - feeling good, not even a mile left, on track for roughly 11m miles, life is good. Keep on keeping on - pace is still smooth, breathing is good, the yak factor is 0. There is one last turnoff on the course, get through that, and just two blocks left.

Coming into the end, there are folks on both sides of the course, and they're way too quiet... So, I take a page from the welshy marathon book, and I decide to do something about this. "Hey, let's hear a little NOISE for all these fine folks!!!" (Even after 5 miles, I still have quite a mouth on me.) They complied, and I managed one sweet sprint into the finish.

Not a thing, totally enjoyed the day.

Lucked out on the water, didn't even have to get in line for it, there was an open case just inside the chute. Found B, lots of stretching and a clif bar (choc & peanut butter, not too bad!), then just lazing about in Freedom Plaza for a while.


The fact that I am not naturally speedy? Actually, I'm perfectly happy with the results.


The predicted crush at bag check never materialized, so no problems there. Overall, well organized, I liked the course, there were PLENTY of course marshalls and the turnarounds were very well marked. (I'll admit I had visions of missing a turnaround and ending up in Anacostia...) I'm conflicted on the location of the water station...they put it in the best place they could on the course, and it was definitely nice to realize we're right at mile 3, but I was really ready for it...