It's always a pleasure to run a well organized race in good weather. I look back and can't help but think how much I enjoyed the entire experience. From the volunteers at the aid stations to the crowds of supporters in town, this was by far my best marathon experience. It makes missing my goal to run under 3 hours not even disappointing.
I forgot my Garmin and I am so happy I did... I just ran how I felt and didn't get discouraged by constantly checking my watch and seeing my pace. I know I ran the first half in 1:29:30 so the second half was 1:34:11. I would have liked to run negative splits but but just couldn't get the leg turnover going down the hills. My biggest victory was the last 5 miles where I feel I did a great job of overcoming the mental breakdown I have experienced in past marathons.
I really can't wait to get started training for the next marathon and break 3 hours. It is so doable after running this one on less than adequate training. Thanks to Ben, my training partner, who ran 3:02 who helped me more than he knows in training, in the race, and in life... | 