This is the first of seven marathons I really didn't train specifically for. I had a good base but have been biking and climbing 14ers all summer and just running a few days a week. I did a 15 mile run 8 weeks out, another 15 mile run 3 weeks out, a 20 mile run 2 weeks out and that was about it. I was not even sure I could complete the run without walking.

Train. However all things considered am actually happy with my time. I will say this was one of the hardest races ever as my entire body hurt--both knees, both hips, especially left side and the bottom of my feet--which have never hurt me before. I'm sure it is because I almost always trail run these days and my body wasn't used to all that pounding.

I had planned to walk a few miles but had no idea I would walk about 10 miles. First we walked the cut off to find my friend Christine at mile 20, then I ended up walking the last six miles of the race with her. Then we walked to dinner, took the girls shopping and back to our hotel so walked 9-10 miles for sure--maybe more.


It was a hot day. It started out perfect--about 62 but warmed up quickly. I also didn't have enough long runs done.


All things considered this was another good Chicago Marathon. However nothing will compare to running it two years ago in 3:41 and qualifying for Boston! :-)