The Boston Marathon: A recap

Yesterday was the most physically tough day of my life.  I finished the Boston Marathon in near record-breaking heat.  In 8 years of running and racing including another hot marathon I have never experienced an event such as yesterday's race.  Besides the 26.2 miles I also ran the gamut of emotions.  Anger and frustration at the weather and my body's inability to adjust to pure and utter joy at seeing the Entering Boston sign. The beginning of the race was much harder than anticipated, I thought I was going at a slow enough pace to maintain in the heat but I was so incredibly wrong.  Had I not (further) slowed down both my pace and liquid consumption I was preparing to walk off the course when I saw my family at mile 10. Fortunately, they had a cooler of frozen goodness (sponges, shammies, ice pops and coconut water) that replenished my body, mind and spirit.

Soaked and sweaty but smiling at Mile 22

After that it was a tough, yet truly amazing experience.  I got to run alongside Tedy Bruschi, stroke survivor and one of my favorite Patriots players several times over the course.  Along the dreaded Newton Hills I drew inspiration from Team Hoyt embarking on their 30th trek up Heartbreak Hill.  Seeing them in action was awe-inspiring.  The world-renowned crowds did not disappoint; bringing out ice, sprinklers, garden hoses, orange slices and salted candy for the masses.  As someone at the back of the pack I cannot express how wonderful it was to see so much support on the course at the end of a very long, hot day.

With my parents, part of my phenomenal pit crew

                                                                    Source: activeinspiration.tumblr.com via Cara on Pinterest

It was my slowest marathon to date, but is easily the one I am most proud of.  I fought through the physical and mental pain to make it all the way to Boylston Street. I can now wear my marathon gear with pride forever. At some point I may even appreciate these killer blisters.  Until then I'm going to prop my feet up, watch some terrible TV and eat some pizza. :)