We flew in late Thursday night and spent Friday relaxing, picking up race packets, and eating to prep for the big race. I may or may not have had Chik-fil-A two times in less than 24 hours.
Saturday was race day! The rain came down for 12 hours leading up to the race, but it turned into a pleasant race day. Adam, my Dad, and I ran the full 26.2, and Matt, my Aunt, and cousin ran the half 13.1.
Saturday was race day! The rain came down for 12 hours leading up to the race, but it turned into a pleasant race day. Adam, my Dad, and I ran the full 26.2, and Matt, my Aunt, and cousin ran the half 13.1.
My only goal was to finish, although Dad's goal for us was to run it a minute faster than last year. Considering my lack of training and only running one 13 miler and one 19.5 miler prior to race day, the run felt pretty great and both goals were accomplished. We came in at 4:21 - three minutes faster than last year. Next year though, I probably should train a little harder. :) Adam ran his first full and Matt ran his first half! They both met their personal goals, and now Adam and I need to convince Matt to run his first full next year.
Marathon running is funny in that you aren't out of breath at all and can talk throughout the race, but your body can feel it as you pass every mile marker. Much of it is mental as well as physical, and for me all I keep repeating in my head is, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."And having my dad alongside me, running slower than he normally would is extra special. He is in awesome shape. The last miles of this marathon are hills, and he was running up them backwards to get me to smile, especially on the dreaded hill between miles 21 and 22. He is an inspiration, and I can only hope to be just like him when I'm his age. Speaking of which, he just celebrated his 51st birthday. Happy Birthday Dad!
We were blessed with sunshine for the Packers/Bengals game on Sunday at Paul Brown Stadium. It was an exciting game to watch despite the turnovers and the last two minutes of the game for us Packer fans.
And of course a lot of eating. Chik-fil-A, Skyline Chili, Graeter's Ice Cream (Snickerdoodle & Pumpkin!), Apple Dumplings, and Ethan's smoked ribs and chicken. Yum!
As always, looking forward to the next trip to Cincy and running another 26.2!
Awesome job, Amanda! I knew you would do well!
ReplyDeleteThanks Jen. SO Excited to see you in a few weeks!
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