It's been 2 years since my last half-marathon and I definitely didn't train like I should have. I was very nervous about how I would perform given my current physical condition, but mainly I just wanted to know that I could give a solid performance and run start to finish.

I started out a little hot, and after the first 4 miles, I knew I needed to slow it down or I would not make it. Of course, that's when I saw my wife in the crowd! I darted over to the curb to get a quick kiss and I was off again. The run down King's Hwy and into Market Commons was very nice. Plenty of shade if it had been hotter. Making the turn put us into the wind coming out of Market Commons and onto Ocean Blvd! Then the wind and shade of the high rises wasn't so great. Because of the course layout, I got to see my entire family at mile 9 when I ran right past the resort we were staying in! What perfect timing and a great boost!

I was starting to drag between mile 10-11, but knew I had time in the bank to make it under 2 hours. I just needed to hang on. Coming down the chute for the last 3 tenths, I really tried to pick it up. I could see the clock ticking down towards the 2 hour mark and I wanted to beat that!

I crossed the finish at 1:59:31 and given my delay, that meant I finished 56 seconds under 2 hours! It was close, but I met my goal.

I need to get back into shape, drop some weight and renew my training regimens.

I didn't spend much time in the finish area as it was cold and windy and once I stopped moving, I started to shiver very quickly. I grabbed some food and headed to the car.


My current shape and training that I put into the race


This was a great race, very well organized and managed! The finish area is awesome, I wish the weather had been warmer so I could have hung out there longer.

The medals are top-notch and I would definitely do this race again!