Guadalajara...1/2 Marathon 2011
Two weeks ago I saw a sign for a half marathon in downtown Guadalajara. I decided we should do it! Kinda crazy..but it was worth it. Even though my knees and calves are killing me.
This run was awesome because it was downtown where all the cathedrals and tall buildings are. There were some crazy hills..absolutely killed me. I didn't have a watch and there were no mile markers until later in the race so it was difficult for me to pace myself. And J had to leave me about half way through...or I should say I left him as he was having, um, issues. :) But there was this old man, he must have been around 65 years old, and he was pretty fast. He was solid. So I kinda had him be my pacer. We would leap frog our way through the race. Around mile 11 my knees were KILLING me, and as I found myself slowing down, I noticed he was getting further and further away. I wasn't going to let him get away! So despite the pain, I pushed through it and caught up to him. Beat him by a few seconds...you notice I feel a sense of accomplishment by beating an old man. Nice. It was so sweet though because after the race he said something to me about how it was nice to run with me and he gave me a hug. It was so sweet.
Then we had an amazing surprise. Our friends showed up at the finish line! And with them they brought Popsicles, homemade bran muffins, and sliced oranges! I couldn't believe it. It was the nicest thing. We are so lucky to have made such good friends here.
Loved the loud Mexican music. Loved the enthusiasm and energy at this race. Loved my playlist. Loved the balloons we had at the start line.
Fun race. I will totally do it again.
Ha!! Only you and Jaren would find a marathon in Mexico! I love it! You guys are awesome!! Good job!!
ReplyDeleteWow! Way to go you guys. I wish I would have the same reaction when seeing a 1/2 marathon sign: "Hey- I think I'll do that." Sheesh, like no big deal!! Didn't know you were such a great runner. What a darling old man-you should have got a special pic with him too ;).
ReplyDeleteYou go girl! So amazed with you being such an awesome runner! You are my inspiration in that department. :) Love the old man bit, too. So cute.
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