This was the 7th Annual 26.2 with Donna National Marathon to Finish Breast Cancer. This is the only national marathon where 100% proceeds benefit breast cancer research (via the Mayo Clinic) and community outreach (via Donna Foundation). I have been a Streaker (repeat runner since the Inaugural) and this is the race that closes out my racing year of doing a half marathon a month checking off the 50 states, as it is the only full marathon I participate.
The race weekend consists of a 5k and Family Fun Run on Saturday, as well as a half marathon, full marathon, and 5 person marathon relay on Sunday. If that is not enough for you, there is a 110 Ultra Challenge throughout the weekend.
GOAL
This was my 5th time attempting the full marathon under 5 hours. (my first marathon finish time in 2008 was 6:03). I taught myself to run with the 1x1 run walk aka Galloway method. Over the years, I have pulled away from it and tried to just run listening to my body. This year however, I decided to jump back on board the run/walk program but with a 3x1 method instead. My goal to achieve the 5hour finish was to remain under 11:27 minute miles. Knowing I crash hard near the 20 mile mark, I planned to push my time for the first 6-13 miles. From there, I would adjust accordingly decreasing both my run and walk times. I wore a Pace Bracelet so I could constantly easily check to make sure I was making time.
My mental goal was not only to keep all negativity out of my head, but to focus on the things I Love. This years motto for the race was 'Choosing Love over Fear' which I wore on my back bib. My life's motto ever since I visited Hawaii a few years ago has been 'Live Aloha' which I wrote on my wrist as a reminder. Both mentalities focusing on the positive things in life. I would run the entire course saying out loud the things that I love, especially every time that a negative thought would cross my mind.
This year I had the most friends participating in the race than ever before....most doing the Relay, which made it seem like I had a huge and constant support system. I also had fellow employees manning a water station at M8/18. Neighbors and a couple friends were also scattered throughout the course cheering on the runners. I felt like I was constantly running to the next friend.
DAYS LEADING TO RACE DAY
The entire week before the race, I stocked up on beets and potatoes (baked and sweet). I stuck with clean eating and juicing until Friday when I participated in the VIP party and probably indulged in one too many glasses of wine, but it was fun to meet so many other Donna Ambassadors and it helped to ease the race weekend jitters. I decided to pass on the Pasta Party the night before the race. I felt like it was a little too late for me and needed to take the time to clear my mind alone. I hear, however, it was extra fancy this year and I missed out on a great time.
EXPO
The race weekend consists of a 5k and Family Fun Run on Saturday, as well as a half marathon, full marathon, and 5 person marathon relay on Sunday. If that is not enough for you, there is a 110 Ultra Challenge throughout the weekend.
GOAL
This was my 5th time attempting the full marathon under 5 hours. (my first marathon finish time in 2008 was 6:03). I taught myself to run with the 1x1 run walk aka Galloway method. Over the years, I have pulled away from it and tried to just run listening to my body. This year however, I decided to jump back on board the run/walk program but with a 3x1 method instead. My goal to achieve the 5hour finish was to remain under 11:27 minute miles. Knowing I crash hard near the 20 mile mark, I planned to push my time for the first 6-13 miles. From there, I would adjust accordingly decreasing both my run and walk times. I wore a Pace Bracelet so I could constantly easily check to make sure I was making time.
My mental goal was not only to keep all negativity out of my head, but to focus on the things I Love. This years motto for the race was 'Choosing Love over Fear' which I wore on my back bib. My life's motto ever since I visited Hawaii a few years ago has been 'Live Aloha' which I wrote on my wrist as a reminder. Both mentalities focusing on the positive things in life. I would run the entire course saying out loud the things that I love, especially every time that a negative thought would cross my mind.
This year I had the most friends participating in the race than ever before....most doing the Relay, which made it seem like I had a huge and constant support system. I also had fellow employees manning a water station at M8/18. Neighbors and a couple friends were also scattered throughout the course cheering on the runners. I felt like I was constantly running to the next friend.
DAYS LEADING TO RACE DAY
The entire week before the race, I stocked up on beets and potatoes (baked and sweet). I stuck with clean eating and juicing until Friday when I participated in the VIP party and probably indulged in one too many glasses of wine, but it was fun to meet so many other Donna Ambassadors and it helped to ease the race weekend jitters. I decided to pass on the Pasta Party the night before the race. I felt like it was a little too late for me and needed to take the time to clear my mind alone. I hear, however, it was extra fancy this year and I missed out on a great time.
EXPO
The Expo is a 2 day event held at the Prime Osborne Convention Center and is one of the biggest, most spacious expos I have experienced yet. There are all kinds of vendors, not only running related, but health related as well, and it is open to the public. They also have some great speakers to get you pumped up and/or educated on running! They have a free photographer to take some fun pictures, and motivational sign boards for you to leave messages. (these will later be put out on the course at the Memory Miles on the beach). I took the day off of work and attended the Expo on Friday to make sure I was completely at ease and rested on Saturday. (as it is an hour drive roundtrip to get from the Beaches to Downtown) I ran into Liz who was doing part of the Relay and we took some fun free pictures together.
NIGHT BEFORE
I ate lasagna and actually had a pretty good night. I slept well and woke rested. The most I was nervous about was parking and making sure Constance arrived early enough for us to be early to Start. I wanted plenty of time at the Start so I wouldn't waste extra energy on being rushed.
START
Constance and I carpooled to Start located at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra, only about 10 minutes away from my house. This was the 2nd year having the start location here, making the course an A-B (different finish line location, which is at the Mayo Clinic). Last year the traffic was pretty bad, so we made sure to arrive extra early. We left shortly after 5am, had no issues what so ever and were one of the first ones to arrive, which meant first ones to the porta potties! YEA! ...a couple times! Race time was set for 730am.
It was a little cool out, so we sat in the Warm Up Tent (yes a tent with heaters in Florida!) with our layers, ate a little bit, and then walked around and took pictures. We then stood around some portable heaters, but were quickly told they were the corrals and we were in the wrong ones. Each person registers with a planned finish time. This coordinates with your bib color, which tells you which corral to go into. Each corral is barricaded and secured by people making sure you are in the right corral. Each corral is then escorted to the Start Line. This is the most secure I have ever seen the corrals.
Unfortunately Constances time was adjusted last minute and she was in a slower corral than me. I wanted to make sure I was in a faster corral since I had such a strong goal and I know the narrow beach streets can get crowded and its hard to pass the Galloway groups if you are behind them. Since we knew she ran faster than her corral assigned, we snuck her up to my corral....was not an easy task, but it had to be!
Once we were at the Start Line, there were a couple of speakers including Donna herself giving last minute words of wisdom. It was soon after, the gun was fired, pink confetti was flying, and we were off!
M1-6-I LOVE RACING WITH FRIENDS!
Miles 1-6 went super fast! Constance and I were feeling great and the course didn't seem as crowded as I remembered. Maybe because I was running faster this year? Or at least started further forward? I was so proud of Constance as this was her first 6 miler race! We passed my friends Toni and Allison cheering us on with signs. The crowd support was already in full force! We were so motivated and excited, our first mile was definitely way faster than we predicted or trained. Lots of tables were set up with water and aid. Sometimes you couldn't even tell if it was an official race table, or if the neighborhood was just handing out supplies! I love that about this race! The entire community is part of this race, whether they are running or not.
We saw Constances parents at the Relay Exchange Zone. (which seemed to be a bit over crowded and chaotic, as we ran right past it, before people were yelling for her to turn back around!)
M6-9-I LOVE MY BEACH!
These were the miles on the sand of Jacksonville Beach, my beach where I live. Sarah exchanged the relay stick with Constance, I patted her on the back and asked her if she was ready. (this was her first Donna) To my surprise she continued to run with me for a bit before my pace picked up and adjusted to the hard packed sand. She had planned to walk this portion, but I later learned she was so motivated not just by me, but buy seeing everyone of different ages and sizes running all around her. She continued to run as far and as much as she could. So proud of her.
The beach miles are known as Memory Miles as the boards we signed at the Expo are lined on the sand with motivating words. The beach is so peaceful and serene during this time of morning, you almost forget you are in a race. The past 2 years this portion of the race has been brutal as we have had severe cold and windy weather. This year felt just right. It was overcast and upper 50s, lower 60s. I was still doing my 3x1 and was averaging about 7 minutes ahead of my predicted 5 hour finish time!
Exiting the beach was my work's water station. Fellow employees have been volunteering for this station for the past several years. And because of this, my employer provides a grant to the charity. I am so super proud of everyone stepping up every year!
M9-13-I LOVE OUR NEIGHBORHOOD SUPPORT!
Up next was the Atlantic Beach Town Center which is always the start to the biggest crowd support! This was also the next Relay Exchange Zone where I got to see and hug Wynton.
The time and money put into the decorations and support in this part of the beaches community is just jaw dropping! There are huge banners and balloon arches that cross over the street. Everyone is out in their driveways, like they are having tailgating parties. Food and drinks are passed out to the runners as well as popsicles and candy.
I had noticed about this time, I had yet to see an official Pacer with a Galloway group. Which was actually good, because they usually stress me out as I try to keep up with them, or try to run faster than the one behind, instead of just focusing on my own race.
I hit my half marathon time right on track and was still feeling good. I was still about 7 minutes faster than my goal.
M13-17-I LOVE SALTY CHIPS!
The next couple miles are a lot quieter as it goes through a neighborhood. This is where my inner self starts doubting my efforts, as there is still so many more miles to go, and pains start to become noticeable. But these thoughts were minimal this year. My body was actually feeling really good. To keep myself from having any negative thoughts, I pulled out my phone. This year the race used the Race Joy app where people can 'track' you on the course and also send you 'cheers' via text with specific sounds. It was really exciting and motivating to get all of those at this time!
I approached the next Relay Exchange, but unfortunately did not see Courtney. In fact, I was so in the zone, I forgot who I was supposed to be looking for. But that was ok, my work water station was up ahead again.
I had forgotten to pack salt packets. My muscles usually start to cramp sometime during the last 10 miles of the race and salt works wonders. I was taking a GU about every 3 miles starting at M6. The course provided at least 4 GU stations. I was absolutely shocked how much GU they were passing out! I also carried chocolate covered nuts, but never needed them. Running through the water station though, I saw bags of chips sitting out. I grabbed a handful and shoved it in my mouth. It was enough to get me through for now.
M18-23-I LOVE REFOUND CONFIDENCE!
Right after I ran through the water station, I saw a familiar back of a head. (yes, you know you are a runner when...lol) I yelled out Vicki's name and she turned around with the most surprised face I have seen! Vicki started before me, but her boyfriend was meeting her at multiple spots on the course, riding his scooter, and he even brought her a change of shoes! It was because of this and her stop at a porta potty, that actually gave me the time to catch up to her. Vicki is a much stronger and faster runner than I am, so I was absolutely dumbfounded that I caught up to her! I was super excited and all I could say was 'you have to get me to the finish!' I knew that if I could stay with her, then she would be my 'hare', get me through the brick wall, and the difficult last 6 miles. After seeing her, I felt a sense of relief. I was confident I was going to reach my 5 hour goal! And I was still 7 minutes ahead of goal!
Vicki was hurting a little bit, so she tried to do my run/walk approach, but quickly learned my super long legs makes my walk pace almost her run pace. Either way, we ended up playing leap frog for a good while. Her boyfriend came out on the course right before M20 and told us how strong both of our forms still looked. He is an Elite runner himself, so to hear words like that from him was exactly what I needed to keep my confidence high!
We approached the Brick Wall at M20 (which stands over 6 feet tall on both sides of the course!) and I was still feeling good! I could feel myself at this point not focusing on anything but straight ahead. I had a clear head, not a single thought was going to get me off track. But then I heard my name called out by Constance and Liz. I realized the Brick Wall was also the Relay Exchange Zone where Liz was waiting. I was not expecting to see Constance out there though! I was super happy to see both of them!
Next up was the block that I live, but I was so overwhelmed by the excitement of the entire race and actually having a shot of making this unbelievable PR, that I almost went right by my neighbors without seeing them or the signs they made! Quick hugs were given and then I was off to tackle the final few miles!
I had let Vicki gain some space between us, but I could always see her ahead. I told myself as long as I can see her, I will still be able to make it.
About M21 I took my usual beer chug. I love this block as they are out there every year, and it seems this is always the spot where I slam a beer. Hey, they say its the best carbohydrate!!
I LOVE BEER!
At this point the clouds were rolling in and it was definitely getting dark in the distance....near the finish line.
M23-26-I LOVE THE RAIN!
These are the miles on JTB...aka, a highway, which has inclines and slants and of course a bridge over the intercoastal!
At this point it was sprinkling and before we even hit the bridge (the last mile) it was raining pretty hard. All I could do was Laugh Out Loud! I mean, I have run over 40 races and have not once ran in real rain....and I have been joking about it for a while, as there have been a couple of close calls. I thought it was great! That was until I heard thunder in the distance. It was a real far distance, so I still didn't think much of it. I was still happy and enjoying the run. I just kept saying its better than being hot or cold, and its better that its happening now at the end, than at the beginning!
Vicky and I continued to play leap frog, but I pulled away from her towards the end, even despite my increasingly slowing pace. I was able to make it up the bridge ok, but was barely running a full minute at a time at this point. I was still going to make it under 5 hours, so I allowed my mental self to take over my aching body and gave into the walking, even in the approach to the final stretch.
At that very moment, I felt a slap on the ass and saw Vicky taking off towards the finish! I grabbed her and said "Noooooo! You cant beat me now!!" lol. But it was Okay. I was happy and I was going to have my 5 hour finish time. No, I was going to have my BETTER THAN 5 hour finish time!!
FINISH-I LOVE DRY CLOTHES!
I crossed the line at 4:55 and let out a sob in the rain. At this point the rain was light enough for us to grab a couple pictures.
We were both freezing and sore so we headed straight to the massage tent as Vicki was cramping up. We thankfully were able to change into some dry clothes as we waited. The rain started coming own hard. I was supposed to meet Constance at the finish so I could drive her home, but her phone was not working. There was no way she was hanging out in the rain, right?!
Just as we were about to get on the empty massage tables, we were told the Finish Line Village was being evacuated because of the weather!
WHAT!? I never even imagined that that could have happened! They said the thunder was getting worse. Later I learned there was a tornado warning nearby. Thankfully I spotted Constance in the distance and we were able to get on the shuttle together. Luckily they had the foil blankets so we were able to stay dry and somewhat warm as we went to the shuttles.
We left the Finish Party without food or beer. It was so sad. We heard that the runners were being told the course was closed and they had to seek shelter. That was even more sad to hear. I couldn't imagine training for a full marathon and being told you couldn't finish. I don't think I could have handled that.
Yes, the shuttle back was a bit of a mess and I know a lot of people have been complaining about the cancelling of the race and the chaos of closing the Finish area and getting back to our cars. For those that were still coming across the Finish, they opened the Mayo Clinic and had a bit of food and blankets and I heard scrubs to change into.
Our bus driver and a couple others I guess were confused on the information to get back to Start. I would blame them if this was a regular finish, but it wasn't. I am sure there was mass confusion on what to do in this emergency situation. However, we thankfully were able to direct our driver down JTB and get us to our cars. Just as we were leaving, we saw Donna come to the Finish.
Yes, I was upset about not getting my celebration at the Finish, but I was still on cloud nine! I did it!
MEDAL-I LOVE SURPRISES!
The medal keeps the same theme every year, which I love. It is a stained glass medal with waves and dolphin and the pink ribbon. The lanyard is what changes every year.
The past few years, the race has also been doing something special for the Streakers. It has been a different lanyard the past couple years, but this year we got a sterling silver necklace charm. I think it is just perfect to commemorate such a huge accomplishment in my life!
(the blue lanyard was for the Relayers. I thought this pic was appropriate with the rain)
AFTER-I LOVE MY FRIENDS!
We were starving, and thankfully I have the best friend who not only made a slew of pasta and meats for us, but also snacks and a ton of booze....as well as clean dry socks....one thing I did not pack in my gear back.
It was great to sit around with friends and celebrate in a friends home and reminisce of what just took place.....I just had a 34 minute PR!! :)
It still seems unbelievable to me!
SHIRT
The shirt this year was made out of the new performance cotton that a lot of races are jumping on board with. I, myself, do not care for it. This year it seems they had a lot of feedback to do something different than pink, and went with a teal and white color for the shirt and bag. They also wanted to incorporate Jacksonville Downtown and not just the beaches. (since the Expo is downtown). I have to say, I am definitely disappointed in this decision. I mean, this is a breast cancer event, and should remain true to the cause's color and actual location of the race.
NIGHT BEFORE
I ate lasagna and actually had a pretty good night. I slept well and woke rested. The most I was nervous about was parking and making sure Constance arrived early enough for us to be early to Start. I wanted plenty of time at the Start so I wouldn't waste extra energy on being rushed.
START
Constance and I carpooled to Start located at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra, only about 10 minutes away from my house. This was the 2nd year having the start location here, making the course an A-B (different finish line location, which is at the Mayo Clinic). Last year the traffic was pretty bad, so we made sure to arrive extra early. We left shortly after 5am, had no issues what so ever and were one of the first ones to arrive, which meant first ones to the porta potties! YEA! ...a couple times! Race time was set for 730am.
It was a little cool out, so we sat in the Warm Up Tent (yes a tent with heaters in Florida!) with our layers, ate a little bit, and then walked around and took pictures. We then stood around some portable heaters, but were quickly told they were the corrals and we were in the wrong ones. Each person registers with a planned finish time. This coordinates with your bib color, which tells you which corral to go into. Each corral is barricaded and secured by people making sure you are in the right corral. Each corral is then escorted to the Start Line. This is the most secure I have ever seen the corrals.
Unfortunately Constances time was adjusted last minute and she was in a slower corral than me. I wanted to make sure I was in a faster corral since I had such a strong goal and I know the narrow beach streets can get crowded and its hard to pass the Galloway groups if you are behind them. Since we knew she ran faster than her corral assigned, we snuck her up to my corral....was not an easy task, but it had to be!
Once we were at the Start Line, there were a couple of speakers including Donna herself giving last minute words of wisdom. It was soon after, the gun was fired, pink confetti was flying, and we were off!
M1-6-I LOVE RACING WITH FRIENDS!
Miles 1-6 went super fast! Constance and I were feeling great and the course didn't seem as crowded as I remembered. Maybe because I was running faster this year? Or at least started further forward? I was so proud of Constance as this was her first 6 miler race! We passed my friends Toni and Allison cheering us on with signs. The crowd support was already in full force! We were so motivated and excited, our first mile was definitely way faster than we predicted or trained. Lots of tables were set up with water and aid. Sometimes you couldn't even tell if it was an official race table, or if the neighborhood was just handing out supplies! I love that about this race! The entire community is part of this race, whether they are running or not.
We saw Constances parents at the Relay Exchange Zone. (which seemed to be a bit over crowded and chaotic, as we ran right past it, before people were yelling for her to turn back around!)
M6-9-I LOVE MY BEACH!
These were the miles on the sand of Jacksonville Beach, my beach where I live. Sarah exchanged the relay stick with Constance, I patted her on the back and asked her if she was ready. (this was her first Donna) To my surprise she continued to run with me for a bit before my pace picked up and adjusted to the hard packed sand. She had planned to walk this portion, but I later learned she was so motivated not just by me, but buy seeing everyone of different ages and sizes running all around her. She continued to run as far and as much as she could. So proud of her.
The beach miles are known as Memory Miles as the boards we signed at the Expo are lined on the sand with motivating words. The beach is so peaceful and serene during this time of morning, you almost forget you are in a race. The past 2 years this portion of the race has been brutal as we have had severe cold and windy weather. This year felt just right. It was overcast and upper 50s, lower 60s. I was still doing my 3x1 and was averaging about 7 minutes ahead of my predicted 5 hour finish time!
Exiting the beach was my work's water station. Fellow employees have been volunteering for this station for the past several years. And because of this, my employer provides a grant to the charity. I am so super proud of everyone stepping up every year!
M9-13-I LOVE OUR NEIGHBORHOOD SUPPORT!
Up next was the Atlantic Beach Town Center which is always the start to the biggest crowd support! This was also the next Relay Exchange Zone where I got to see and hug Wynton.
The time and money put into the decorations and support in this part of the beaches community is just jaw dropping! There are huge banners and balloon arches that cross over the street. Everyone is out in their driveways, like they are having tailgating parties. Food and drinks are passed out to the runners as well as popsicles and candy.
I had noticed about this time, I had yet to see an official Pacer with a Galloway group. Which was actually good, because they usually stress me out as I try to keep up with them, or try to run faster than the one behind, instead of just focusing on my own race.
I hit my half marathon time right on track and was still feeling good. I was still about 7 minutes faster than my goal.
M13-17-I LOVE SALTY CHIPS!
The next couple miles are a lot quieter as it goes through a neighborhood. This is where my inner self starts doubting my efforts, as there is still so many more miles to go, and pains start to become noticeable. But these thoughts were minimal this year. My body was actually feeling really good. To keep myself from having any negative thoughts, I pulled out my phone. This year the race used the Race Joy app where people can 'track' you on the course and also send you 'cheers' via text with specific sounds. It was really exciting and motivating to get all of those at this time!
I approached the next Relay Exchange, but unfortunately did not see Courtney. In fact, I was so in the zone, I forgot who I was supposed to be looking for. But that was ok, my work water station was up ahead again.
I had forgotten to pack salt packets. My muscles usually start to cramp sometime during the last 10 miles of the race and salt works wonders. I was taking a GU about every 3 miles starting at M6. The course provided at least 4 GU stations. I was absolutely shocked how much GU they were passing out! I also carried chocolate covered nuts, but never needed them. Running through the water station though, I saw bags of chips sitting out. I grabbed a handful and shoved it in my mouth. It was enough to get me through for now.
M18-23-I LOVE REFOUND CONFIDENCE!
Right after I ran through the water station, I saw a familiar back of a head. (yes, you know you are a runner when...lol) I yelled out Vicki's name and she turned around with the most surprised face I have seen! Vicki started before me, but her boyfriend was meeting her at multiple spots on the course, riding his scooter, and he even brought her a change of shoes! It was because of this and her stop at a porta potty, that actually gave me the time to catch up to her. Vicki is a much stronger and faster runner than I am, so I was absolutely dumbfounded that I caught up to her! I was super excited and all I could say was 'you have to get me to the finish!' I knew that if I could stay with her, then she would be my 'hare', get me through the brick wall, and the difficult last 6 miles. After seeing her, I felt a sense of relief. I was confident I was going to reach my 5 hour goal! And I was still 7 minutes ahead of goal!
Vicki was hurting a little bit, so she tried to do my run/walk approach, but quickly learned my super long legs makes my walk pace almost her run pace. Either way, we ended up playing leap frog for a good while. Her boyfriend came out on the course right before M20 and told us how strong both of our forms still looked. He is an Elite runner himself, so to hear words like that from him was exactly what I needed to keep my confidence high!
We approached the Brick Wall at M20 (which stands over 6 feet tall on both sides of the course!) and I was still feeling good! I could feel myself at this point not focusing on anything but straight ahead. I had a clear head, not a single thought was going to get me off track. But then I heard my name called out by Constance and Liz. I realized the Brick Wall was also the Relay Exchange Zone where Liz was waiting. I was not expecting to see Constance out there though! I was super happy to see both of them!
Next up was the block that I live, but I was so overwhelmed by the excitement of the entire race and actually having a shot of making this unbelievable PR, that I almost went right by my neighbors without seeing them or the signs they made! Quick hugs were given and then I was off to tackle the final few miles!
I had let Vicki gain some space between us, but I could always see her ahead. I told myself as long as I can see her, I will still be able to make it.
About M21 I took my usual beer chug. I love this block as they are out there every year, and it seems this is always the spot where I slam a beer. Hey, they say its the best carbohydrate!!
I LOVE BEER!
At this point the clouds were rolling in and it was definitely getting dark in the distance....near the finish line.
M23-26-I LOVE THE RAIN!
These are the miles on JTB...aka, a highway, which has inclines and slants and of course a bridge over the intercoastal!
At this point it was sprinkling and before we even hit the bridge (the last mile) it was raining pretty hard. All I could do was Laugh Out Loud! I mean, I have run over 40 races and have not once ran in real rain....and I have been joking about it for a while, as there have been a couple of close calls. I thought it was great! That was until I heard thunder in the distance. It was a real far distance, so I still didn't think much of it. I was still happy and enjoying the run. I just kept saying its better than being hot or cold, and its better that its happening now at the end, than at the beginning!
Vicky and I continued to play leap frog, but I pulled away from her towards the end, even despite my increasingly slowing pace. I was able to make it up the bridge ok, but was barely running a full minute at a time at this point. I was still going to make it under 5 hours, so I allowed my mental self to take over my aching body and gave into the walking, even in the approach to the final stretch.
At that very moment, I felt a slap on the ass and saw Vicky taking off towards the finish! I grabbed her and said "Noooooo! You cant beat me now!!" lol. But it was Okay. I was happy and I was going to have my 5 hour finish time. No, I was going to have my BETTER THAN 5 hour finish time!!
FINISH-I LOVE DRY CLOTHES!
I crossed the line at 4:55 and let out a sob in the rain. At this point the rain was light enough for us to grab a couple pictures.
We were both freezing and sore so we headed straight to the massage tent as Vicki was cramping up. We thankfully were able to change into some dry clothes as we waited. The rain started coming own hard. I was supposed to meet Constance at the finish so I could drive her home, but her phone was not working. There was no way she was hanging out in the rain, right?!
Just as we were about to get on the empty massage tables, we were told the Finish Line Village was being evacuated because of the weather!
WHAT!? I never even imagined that that could have happened! They said the thunder was getting worse. Later I learned there was a tornado warning nearby. Thankfully I spotted Constance in the distance and we were able to get on the shuttle together. Luckily they had the foil blankets so we were able to stay dry and somewhat warm as we went to the shuttles.
We left the Finish Party without food or beer. It was so sad. We heard that the runners were being told the course was closed and they had to seek shelter. That was even more sad to hear. I couldn't imagine training for a full marathon and being told you couldn't finish. I don't think I could have handled that.
Yes, the shuttle back was a bit of a mess and I know a lot of people have been complaining about the cancelling of the race and the chaos of closing the Finish area and getting back to our cars. For those that were still coming across the Finish, they opened the Mayo Clinic and had a bit of food and blankets and I heard scrubs to change into.
Our bus driver and a couple others I guess were confused on the information to get back to Start. I would blame them if this was a regular finish, but it wasn't. I am sure there was mass confusion on what to do in this emergency situation. However, we thankfully were able to direct our driver down JTB and get us to our cars. Just as we were leaving, we saw Donna come to the Finish.
Yes, I was upset about not getting my celebration at the Finish, but I was still on cloud nine! I did it!
MEDAL-I LOVE SURPRISES!
The medal keeps the same theme every year, which I love. It is a stained glass medal with waves and dolphin and the pink ribbon. The lanyard is what changes every year.
The past few years, the race has also been doing something special for the Streakers. It has been a different lanyard the past couple years, but this year we got a sterling silver necklace charm. I think it is just perfect to commemorate such a huge accomplishment in my life!
(the blue lanyard was for the Relayers. I thought this pic was appropriate with the rain)
AFTER-I LOVE MY FRIENDS!
We were starving, and thankfully I have the best friend who not only made a slew of pasta and meats for us, but also snacks and a ton of booze....as well as clean dry socks....one thing I did not pack in my gear back.
It was great to sit around with friends and celebrate in a friends home and reminisce of what just took place.....I just had a 34 minute PR!! :)
It still seems unbelievable to me!
OVERALL
I did step up my training this year to include more back to back long distances as well as back to back races and increased my weekly mileage. I read somewhere, it didnt matter if you did just one long run a week, or your weekly mileage equaled that. That it is actually better for recovery to split it up. Either way, you had a 30 mile week or not. So I went by that theory. I maintained my short distances in the week, but for my long distances, I would split them up at least 2 ways. (say on a 20 mile day, I would do 10 in the AM and 10 in the PM). And the recovery was really amazing.
Next year I want my marathon training to start a month earlier (October instead of November) and see if I can PR again keeping the same philosophy (I have PRd on this race every year!). I have been warned, now that I am below 5 hours, it will be very hard, but I am determined, even if it is only a couple minutes!
I also believe in living positive. Running truly tests your limits on positive thinking. I believe that saying out loud the things that I love during the entire race worked wonders! Even if it was the smallest thing (yes, I said i loved the pot hole cover! or i loved the seagull on the beach! or i loved the little kid giving me a high five) it all adds up. You think positive about one thing, it moves on to the next, and then your mind and body is only feeling positive energy. I have never felt so happy during a full marathon before!
I absolutely love this race! Yes, I may be a weeee bit biased because it is a home town race, but once again, 100% proceeds benefit breast cancer research and care! Who else can say that? But besides that, honestly, the support (race wise and neighborhood wise) is absolutely amazing! They are what makes this race. And I am proud to be part of this beach community!
I LOVE JACKSONVILLE BEACH!
I LOVE 26.2 WITH DONNA!
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