I did it!!!!!!
Sunday was the PEI Marathon and I completed it in a time of 4:10:38. What an overwhelming experience it was. A few weeks prior to marathon I strained my calf muscle and had to take 10 days off. and just 1 week before the marathon I wrenched my back. Up until the morning of the marathon I was not sure whether I would be able to do it. Looking back, I think the back pain was stress-related as I worried about the marathon and didn't sleep well because of it.
Marathon day was picture perfect. It was slightly cool starting out at only 2 degrees, but warmed up to 8 by the time I was finished. It was so great to have family support there with Cheryl, Andrew and Daniel following our progress in 5 km increments and having water and gels available when needed. It was funny to watch Andrew & Daniel forming a relay to ensure that drinks were ready by the time we arrived at the van.
Vicki, Beth, Ryan and Alexa arrived later with motivational signs. Finishing the marathon was such an overwhelming experience. Doug and Jean came out to run with me for 200 metres, but then let me run it in myself at the end. Dad was there, and so was my family, mark & cathy & kids, Rob & Andrea, and Beth and kids. The whole thing was so overwhelming and happened so fast it was like a blur. Mom couldn't make it because she was not well, but Dad had his phone out and I talked to her immediately after I finished the run. It's all a blur, but I remember saying to Mom that one of the quotes that got me through some of the toughest points was "When it starts to hurt, I think of all the people that can't run and I run for them.". The whole things was pretty emotional and very humbling.
What an amazing day with friends and family as well as completing the major goal of my "year of reflection.". I ran a marathon before I turn 40 in February. While the marathon was an amazing experience, I think my next goal is to get better at the half marathon. My current PB is around 1:48 and I would like to get that under 1:45..... For now, though, I'm just pleased that I set a goal and attained it. This is a lesson that I hope to pass to my kids through my own actions. Anything is possible.
