Half-Marathoner! :)

I am happy to report that I did it! :) Though my quads are still sore, I completed my first Half-Marathon and it felt great. I always feel that way which I why I love to race. Of course, I am only racing myself.

It was a fantastic, sunny day. And windy too. Fortunately, the beautiful Belle Haven trails of trees buffered us from too much wind interference. The weather was a runners haven, downright delightful.

Unlike me, I started the race to quickly and just as quickly became concerned. So I settled in and heard Jeff Galloway's voice cheering, go at it my own pace, finish strong. And leave it to me to discover a new candy on the half-marathon trail. Nothing like the new Peanut Butter M&M's to power you up. They were great. The race was well done and I even got a kiss from the race Director right before the Early Bird start. After all of his hard work and those regular emails to gear us up, I had to belt out "Are you Jay Wind?" to the first diligently working soul I saw. A huge shout out and Thank You to Jay for encouraging me to meet my goals, no matter how many miles I have logged. It was his suggestion to take the Early Bird start, beginning 30 minutes prior to the official competitive start. I have to admit, it was exciting to finish and it was quite exhilerating to finish the Men's 2nd Place Marathoner. Did you get that, he more than doubled my time. And I was still honored to cross the finish with him. Another unexpected thrill, was the great group of ladies I met from Raleigh, North Carolina. Boy, did we have lots to talk about. Some basics being my parents were married in Raleigh 50 years ago this past March. My mother is a native Greensboro and UNC Tar Heel. Thanks ladies for a great run and friendship blossoming.

Once I learn the skill, I'd love to upload some of the race pics. Until then, Happy Trails and since I made my new North Carolina friends aware of my great friends at Running Blog Family it's time I learn how to list them on my blog.
All the best and let me know when your next race is and how long you have to train.