The race went pretty well I thought. Miles 1-16 went really well. I felt really good, was taking in the right amounts of water, and was staying cool. Miles 16-21 I started to walk for 30-60 secs everytime I would pass a mile marker. Looking back I'm not sure why I did this except to give my body a chance to cool off a little. Miles 22-25 consisted of a more walking but I still managing to run quite a bit. I started to feel dehydrated during these miles as well and the muscles in my leg tightened up and wanted to cramp. Mile 26 was the best feeling in the world. I told myself I was going to run the whole mile and not walk one step. Once I was able to see the capitol (finish line) an amazing feeling rushed through me. And then running down the final stretch seeing all the people cheering like crazy and then seeing my family was awesome.

I have been trying hard to get my dad to start working out to get his weight to a healthier weight. He was at 247 when I got home last spring from college and that blew my mind. He has managed to get himself down to 215 now. After the race though I asked him if he would do it next year with me and at first he said "No way" but then a little later he said well we'll see once I get my weight a little lower and start running (right now he is doing elliptical training to save on his knees due to his high weight) again I might be up for doing that or either a half-marathon with me. It was awesome to hear him indirectly tell me that all the training I am doing has influenced him and got him back on the right track.

Train harder, just so I can be faster in the future.

Walked through the finish chute and then managed to find my family. Stretched and got some food in me, and then we headed back home due to the 5+ hour drive we had home.


Just not knowing the extreme of doing a marathon. Knowledge and experience is priceless.


Great race!! I want to make this an annual race I do!!