...for not giving up when they really, really wanted to. For not blistering, twisting, or bleeding. I'd like to thank my feet for their perserverence. For keeping on when the going got tough and carrying me across the finish line -- and not even last -- even though they felt like fiery concrete stumps.
I didn't sleep a wink last night. My stomach was nervous, my head kept talking, and my body was restless. And on our way to the race, we were stuck in traffic until about 20 minutes before it started and I was near piddling with stress that we wouldn't make it. Apparently there were a lot of people running.
But we got there in time and at the start of the race it was 70 degrees and lovely. We were strong. Around mile 10, a cold front began to move in and it poured on us, got windy and cold. I turned up my I-Pod. Chariots of Fire played. It was a moment. There was a sign that said, "Believe in the run."
We did.
It was over soon after and we finished in a sprint. I cried a little. We got medals for finishing and wrapped ourselves up in aluminum foil to keep our bodies warm. (You were right, Martha! Thanks!) We ate my favorite salad from my favorite Cuban restaurant which catered the run. And my dad met us at the finish line with my little boy. I spent the rest of the day in a run "hangover"...headache and dehydrated. But truly, this day was one of the best experiences of my life. That's the official story of the half-marathon in a nutshell. It was awesome. I can't believe it's already over. (And that I'm ready for round two...)
Oh yes, and I can't believe I forgot! (Thanks Michelle!) My time was 2 hours and 34 minutes. And of course, I wish that number was just a little bit lower because I averaged 11:54 minute miles, but whatever! Can't I just be happy I finished????!!
Way to go Christie!! I am SO PROUD of you!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations! Great picture.
ReplyDeleteswearing is in order here: holy shit i cannot believe you did it! i mean i knew you would, seriously no doubts. but holy crap! my friend is a runner, a finisher of a 13 mile race!!!!
ReplyDelete(how did T not see you guys?)
way to go! so proud...sniff sniff
WOW. Well done. How long did it take you? I'm so impressed and proud of you. What's round two?
ReplyDeleteCongrats, Congrats!! I knew you could do it. You look awsome for just running a race :)
ReplyDeleteOh, I am BEYOND proud of you! Congratulations on finishing, and in a great time, too!
ReplyDeleteWell done, my friend. Well done. You have all my love and admiration. :)
Well, of *course* you did it! Sounds like a great experience. Congrats to you and your fabulous feet!!!
ReplyDeleteYAY! I'm so proud of you! I think you can *now* say that you're a runner (especially since you pushed through in the rain, wind and cold) . ;-)
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to hear when the next BIG race will be for you.
Congrats!!!!! Hope you didn't get too sore.
I don't know you at all, but I'm impressed! What a wonderful acheivement. :)
ReplyDeleteCan't I just be happy I finished????!!
ReplyDeleteGOOOOD GOSH YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
great job!!!! i am so impressed! way to go!
ReplyDeleteExcellent job!
ReplyDelete