My First Marathon (part 1)
I did it! I ran 26.2 miles yesterday and I’m still alive. I’m still can’t believe I did it. This was always an elusive dream for me that I never really thought I could do, and then last year after my second half marathon I knew right after the race that I would do a marathon. And so I did. *grin*
I woke up around 5 o’clock that morning so that I could digest breakfast before the run started at 7 o’clock. I had a small bowl of cereal and a bit of fruit salad. I wish I could eat a little more before I run, but I get running cramps really easy…so I knew I’d just have to run a little hungry.
On the way to the race grounds I wrote all over my hand.
I decided to dedicate this race to my niece Bethany who is still in the hospital receiving intensive care. She is such a strong, young woman with all that she’s gone through and yet, she still smiles through it all. She’s running a different kind of “race” and it’s not easy for her, especially when it’s painful. Whenever I went through a rough part in the race I tried to think of her and how strong she is. I know God has a special plan for her life.
I also put one of my favourite quotes and a verse reference on the palm of my hand.
Then I stuffed my one and only pocket with GU gels, a pack of Sharkies, and my i-pod so that it looked like I had a huge growth coming out of my hip. Attractive.
Us four siblings posed before the race. I’m pretending to be calm, cool, and collected.
Then all the people starting gathering, which we got in about 1-2 minutes before the horn blew…normally, we’re a little more punctual. Well, it just added to the pre-race adrenaline.
You can’t imagine how excited and nervous I was. For some people, running a marathon would be something they are good at and do many times over. For me, not only had I never run one, but it was a big dream for me. And once it was over…with the medal around my neck, I felt like that if I could run a marathon I can do a great many things that I believed I couldn’t do.
My next post will be my follow up on the race with lots of pictures! Don’t miss it by subscribing here!
Have you ever run a race? Or done something you believed you couldn’t do?
Category: Fitness, Running | Tags: beginner runner, energy gels for running, first marathon, first time running a marathon, marathon snack ideas, running a marathon, tips for running a first marathon', what I ate on my first marathon 7 comments »
Wow, congrats! You are so inspiring. I’m totally going to steal your trick of writing stuff on your hands!
Love your post, sweetheart!! You definitely tend to do anything you set your heart on! Way to go!! …and I love you so much!!
Wow, YOU ROCK GIRL! This is amazing! Congratulations! It’s so cool to see your dreams come true :)))
Charissa, I love your energy in this post! I have been in your shoes girl. Running a marathon is a huge mental & physical commitment. It taught me so much about life when I was out there pounding the pavement.
I am reading an amazing book you might like “Born to Run” it will take you on a journey about running like non other. Good timing too.
Congrats girl – enjoy glowing form this event :) xo
Thanks for commenting in my blog :D and congratulations girl!!! Mens sana in corpore sano… that’s what they say, right?
Thanks for commenting in my blog! And congrats! I love your photos!
Kelly~ Go for it! :)
Marla~ I didn’t know you were a runner! That’s awesome…it is a huge mental/physical commitment, but it was so worth it. I have checked out that book, thanks for the heads up!
Nuria & Lydia~ Thanks so much!
Mom~ You always make my day. ;)