Started out with John and Justine. We got separated pretty easily though. First mile was crowded (like normal) so it was a little slower than I would have liked - 9:19. By but mile 2 I was in my rhythm - 9:00 pace. Saw John again a few more times. Of course at one point he made a comment that got me laughing. ;)

I made sure to get water at every station. (only took Gatorade about mile 6) I think I am finally learning how to drink and run (not in stride) but at least I don't slow down quite as much.

Eric saw me at mile 8 (his mile 10) and ran over to pace me. From this point on, I tried not to look at my Garmin. I figured it was best this way. He was keeping me at a 9:00/mile pace. He even got water at the aid stations for me so I wouldn't have to slow down. At mile 10 I started counting down. A 5K left - this is doable. Mile 11 was feeling more pain but I was getting so close. For encouragement, Eric reminded me it was less than a loop around Memorial park. The Allen Parkway hills were painful though. Finally 1.5 miles left. My cardio was doing better than my legs for sure. Then we made it downtown. I just kept thinking. I can do this...only a few more minutes. Eric even tried to block some of the wind for me. (The downtown buildings create a tunnel of wind.) Then there it was... the finish line. I kicked it as much as I could at the end. I crossed the finish line and puked. (Apparently the sign of a good race.)

Nothing. Eric paced me as perfectly.

Got my finishers medal. Then met up with everyone else and got some ice cream. YUM! Then got finishers shirt and took some pics. Met up with Deb (she ran the marathon) and got some food!

I think a good time was had by all!


This race will probably always be my fav!