MADISON 1/2 MARATHON

James and I competed in and completed our 1st 1/2 marathon today. Our day started at 4:30am when we all got up to get ready to head to the course. We were out the door by 5:30am - we piled into my mother-in-law's minivan (my mom & dad, my inlaws, Christopher, James & I) and were to the Alliant Center parking lot by 5:55 am. My father didn't really think that we needed to leave that early...until they began realizing and hearing about the several mile back-up on the highway trying to get to the Alliant Center. In the long run they were very happy that we had left so early!

It was the first time our parents had seen us run. James finished in 1:54 and I finished in 1:57. It was great to have Dick at the finish line! The whole thing was a little overwhelming for everyone involved and instead of heading to Brat Fest, we headed home and prepared a big breakfast. Needlessly to say we have spent most of the day relaxing!

James and I lined up with the pace group for the 2 hour time. The group started off much faster than the 9:10 mile pace we were suppose to be holding. Our first 5 miles was at a faster pace than we had run for CrazyLegs. The 2nd half of the race was tiring and both of us really slowed down. We definitely can not start that fast for the full marathon! I had taped my toes and parts of my foot that had blistered last weekend on my long run. No blisters there, but on a toe I didn't tape!

At least tomorrow we have the day off from running; James is on call and I do have to work for a couple of hours. The next 2 weeks are going to be tough - I will be working alot, plus I have to run! (Less than 2 weeks until the pool opens.) As a reminder, we only have until June 10 to submit donations. So, if you can encourage anyone to make a final donation to our cause we would greatly appreciate it!