
Eight weeks after making that decision, I ran the Baton Rouge Beach Marathon. It's a double looped course, and I figured that if I didn't feel like doing the full 26.2, I could accept the 13.1 achievement as part of my training. Up until that point, the longest run I had completed was roughly 8 miles, and knew running the half would be a feat in and of itself. I completed the full, and immediately admitted I was hooked.

Race morning was perfect. Weather was balmy, but negotiable since I was used to training in my home town's above average temperature. I had friends to see at the start, including Karen who had flown in from Kentucky to run the half. I wasn't at the peak of my training, but knew that I could get through the miles if I paced myself properly. I even knew where on the course I could catch support from friends, and those moments were what kept me going.

I really don't think my parents understand the pawns they play in my marathon game. They are stationed at that place on the route to catch me again just before mile 25, allowing them to walk in to the park to meet me at the finish. As expected, they were there with water in-hand, along with Karen and Emmeline who had the announcer welcoming me back with a congratulations on my 30th race. Honestly, it was an out of body experience. I couldn't have asked for better support that day, and I definitely was glad that I was able to make this my "goal finish" amongst my family and closest friends.
Today as I celebrate my 30th birthday, I know that I have evolved to the point of doing something I had no interest in less than five years ago. I'm excited about what the next decade (and beyond) is going to bring, and having those same cheerleaders with me along the route will get me through the miles both on and off the race course.
Congratulations again on this achievement. I was so happy to be a small part of your 30th marathon. Your running achievements continue to inspire me! Happy birthday!
ReplyDeleteThanks Katherine! You were more than a small part of it before, during, after, and to this day! We both completed a Whole30 in 2013. I'm still more impressed with yours. #Turning30
DeleteHow exciting! Happy Birthday!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Abbs!
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