August 10, 2008 - First Half Marathon

Today was the Chicago Distance Classic. My first half marathon. 13.1 miles.
Actually the course was long and recertified at 13.2762 miles.

It was awesome! I ran with Beth the whole time. She was an awesome cheerleader and a great pacer! The weather was perfect. It was the perfect temperature and the view, especially on the way back, was beautiful. I had a great time running with a large group of people. Honestly, I'm in a daze. If you had told me four months ago that I would be running a half marathon this summer I would have laughed at you. And yet here I am. I couldn't have asked for a better run. My knee did bother me for most of the race and I am at the beginning of a cold, but God gave me strength to finish and finish strong. My time was 2:29:40. This is a 11:17 pace. I am just so pleased and proud. Beth did awesome! She blasted her previous time by 9 minutes! So inspirational!!


Here's a picture of us after finishing:

I was so excited to have cheerleaders too! My mother-in-law and sister-in-law came down to support me! It was so great to see familiar faces while running. I saw JoAn and Sarah early into the race and they kept me motivated on my way back. Although I didn't see them on my way across the finish it was nice to know they were rooting for me!

At Beth's suggestion, I did label myself with tape that said "Julia's 1st 1/2 marathon" so I also got cheers for my name specifically and for "first half marathoner". Some were at Beth's urging, she can certainly work a crowd! =)

The best part about finishing is that everyone receives a metal! I love bling! And yes, I am wearing it right now. At home. Twelve hours after finishing. Because I want to.

Even Roxy, my car, has an added item. At the expo yesterday, I bought a "13.1" magnet which I ceremoniously applied to my car today after finishing the race.

All-in-all, a most successful day.