St. George Marathon

looking tired just before crossing the finish line

 Two weeks ago I ran the St. George Marathon.  I have been chasing that goal for awhile.  Four years ago I trained and got Pneumonia the week before and I had to drop out.  I remember watching Wade & Todd cross the finish line and trying not to cry because I wanted to be with them.  But alas I did it!  Yeah me!  I did it all by myself...not really.  Wade was so great to make sure I could always get my long runs in.  He loves to golf and I'm sure the running cramped his golf game.  He was so supportive and I couldn't have done it without him.    He documented the event rather extensively so here are my photos.

The starting line the day before the race

A lot of bathrooms

Jack's Sign

Dan's Sign

Sign's from my fan club (family & friends)

 I had a lot of support.  I felt so lucky to have so many friends and family there to cheer for me.  I had signs about every four miles and they were huge and I couldn't miss them.  It gave me something to look forward too and it was a nice distraction.

Finished!

It was such a hot day.  Before the race the announcer at the starting line kept talking about how it was the hottest start in the history of the St. George Marathon.  I was like Shut up and quit reminding me.  My quads cramped up and I had to get Icy Hot rub downs (Thanks  Julie for the tip). 

Awesome sight

 I finished in 4:14.  I was hoping to be a little faster but I was happy with my finish.  I was glad I didn't need the National Guard to carry me to the finish and I was glad I didn't immediately collapse once I got there.  Running a marathon is a rush I can't put into words but I am so glad I did it.  The body is an amazing thing and it is capable of much more than we think.  I watched a man in a wheel chair struggling up the Veyo hill and I so wanted to push him but I thought if he can do this without legs than I can surly do it with them.  Thank you everyone for helping me accomplish my goal.  Cheri ran with me almost every Saturday since June.  Sometimes she would go 8-12 miles and I know running is not her favorite.  Nicole, Wade, Todd, and my Mom (she is a very accomplished marathoner)  ran with me throughout my training.   I had so many people to support me at the finish line and along the course I felt so lucky.  I had friends who coached me and helped prepare me for the race.  When I got home I had signs and presents to welcome me back.  THANKS!