Today was one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had. Watching the trials was just an experience that will never be repeated. I am here with my husband, my 11 year old who we brought for her birthday and then Saskia & Jenny. We had a great location and were able to see the runners at miles 1, 1.5, 3, 9, 17 & 25. There was crowd support but we were able to be right in the action most the time. When we got to our spot at mile 9, we decided to stick it out and stay because we were right on the tangent corner and the athletes flew by as they made the turn. It was interesting to watch the race unfold and observe the changes as they looped the course. For both the men and women races the lead pack did not change much through out the race, just got smaller with each loop. Sara Hall, Ryan Hall's wife, watched with us for about 20 - 25 min while she waited for him to come at mile 17. She was so kind and is absolutely beautiful. It was great to watch her get so excited when she saw him coming down and making the turn.
We saw Paul Peterson with each loop and cheered him on and watched him get stronger as the race went on - he looked really good just before the 25 mile mark. I walked away from the race so excited to train....not to race, just train more. We spent the rest of our day resting, drove the course, had dinner and now just preparing for tomorrow. The excitement is setting in and I still have no plan but no expectations other than to have a great time, run the best I can and take it all in.
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