It's over. Thank you Lord it is over. I have to admit that this race was the most physically painful, emotionally exhausting and humbling experience of my life so far. But you know... I did it and I finished. I am exactly what that shirt says... I am, a "finisher," I couldn't ask for more. Isaiah and his brother did amazing (as expected), they both finished around 3hours 40minutes (yeah.... I know). Isaiah admits it was tiring and painful towards the end, but thinks he will do another one next year. Me? My legs were already tired and sore at mile 11... not good. I also got really hungry at mile 13 and GU only gets you so far before your stomach starts hurting from the excess glucose (the equivalent of PMS cramps). So, I was hungry, tired and cold all before I was half way through this ordeal. Did I mention that the Portland Marathon has had a 27 year record of no rain on race day? We broke that record this year : ) It was a nice, steady drizzle for mile 4 to 22 and I was sporting a tank and skort (they're all the rage in the running world). Needless to say, I had a more challenging run than expected, and honestly don't know if I'll do it again (sorry Jenny). I will say... as I was coming up to the crowd of people at the last .3 miles, this cute little old man (who was running his 75th marathon at age 75) started passing me... and I thought NO WAY, I refuse to let this sweet grandpa show me up. I don't know where it came from, but I picked it up and passed up 5 people before I crossed the line. Go me : )
6 comments:
Ummm... excuse me babe... I thought you said you'd do it again. How bout we arm wrestle over it. But seriously, you have to admit the whole Portland/Vancouver Fit group was great to be a part of. We couldn't have done it without that support. And to all you reading this in Bellingham... there's a Bellingham Fit up there too. I highly recommend it. You'll be amazed at what you can accomplish being a part of a group.
CONGRATULATIONS YOU TWO!!! I'm very impressed. Well done. As for having a support group to encourage you, I can't agree more, it's critical in helping one reach their goals. My goals, however, don't exceed 5 miles at this point :) Sorry Jenny AND Rachel (and Isaiah too). Isaiah, you're a crazy man at that pace! However, one who backpacks with full on CANS of food and a can opener (?) would obviously be able to run 26 miles in under 4 hours. What was I thinking? :) You two are amazing. Keep it up!
p.s. Rach, I'm proud of you beating the old man. Wait, that came out wrong, but you know what I mean. I'd probably have grabbed the back of his shirt and begged him to carry me across the finish. :)
Congrats Rachel and Isaiah,
What a great life experience!
I was getting rid of all my stuff that not longer fits a 54 year old, fat man and could not bring myself to put my 1998 "Finishers" shirt in the Goodwill pile.
Shoot I may have them bury me in it! 2 Timothy 4:7
Way to kick th old guys tail... remind me not to go jogging with you!
Ralph
Hooray!!! Congrats Rach!! I'm so proud of you! You don't have to commit now, but just think...we could do it together! I did a half yesterday and was pretty lonely by myself (I'd love a buddy for a full)!! All I'm saying is...think about it! :) I'd even go for a half with you!! I miss you so much!! I'm doing my pro cert now (ugh)! Are you done with yours?? Tell me I'm going to live through this!!!
Wow. Congratulations. You guys amaze me. I'm doing a marathon today- a marathon study session for my Synoptic Gospels mid-term. No runners high here.
Post a Comment