Success is more than Just a Medal!

Scott, my mom, my sister Julie, and I were all supposed to run in Myrtle Beach in February. The race was cancelled due to what we who live in the South call “snow”.

Scott wanted to re-qualify for the Boston Marathon so we needed to find another race. We found the Snickers Marathon in Albany, Georgia. (… I originally made hotel reservations at the hotel in Albany, New York.)

We ran – it was freezing in the morning & perfect by the end.

I learned a bunch of lessons that are carrying on into my everyday life.

• When the going gets tough? just grit your teeth (or your brain) and keep on going – hopefully the finish is just around the next corner – or at least a cute smiling Marine to cheer you on.
• Do you feel pain? It’s just a massage that’s helping to loosen your muscles.
• Lost? Just follow the bum in front of you.
• Hungry? Hopefully there’s something left in your back pocket. Shot blocks are yummy.
• Tired & sore? Ibuprofen and time.
• Recovery? It just takes time. It’s now April & I feel like I’m still recovering.

We had someone take our picture early, early in the morning before the race. We picked up our packets, warmed up in the car, stretched, waited in line for the portajohns, waited again, and then we were off. We did not run one step of the race near each other but it was wonderful to be participating in the same event. I was so tired in the middle (mile 7?) that I couldn’t do simple math. I was trying to envision where Scott was at on the course. I loved being at the finish line early enough to see him come in. I definitely do better when someone else is waiting for me to get my snacks though. :)

After I saw Scott head towards the finish line, I couldn’t find him! I walked around & finally thought to see him at the medical tent. He was sitting down & resting.

Scott’s time was 3:27.00 for the marathon.

My time was 2:46 & change for the half.

Next stop? Boston.