i did it!

i did it! i ran my first half-marathon! having no expectations, i entered this race with endless possibility. no time to beat, no competitor to run against. it was just me, running because i love it. running because it's freedom. running because it's a proactive approach to benefitting a cause: kicking cancer to the curb!

at the health expo

it was an early day. woke up at 3:30 am, in san diego by 4:30 am, at the start line by 6 am. sleepy? no way! with over 32,000 runners, i was charged with energy.

my support: gino and kristen (cousin). bless their hearts!

it couldn't have been a more beautiful morning...clear skies, cool temperature, and scenic course. and the music! at the start line, i began the race to footloose. at that moment, i knew it was going to be an amazing experience. 

and it was. i loved running with people of all ages, shapes, and sizes. i loved knowing everyone was running for a different reason. to compete and qualify for another marathon. to celebrate a life. to cross this off a bucket list. to propose. i loved the cheers from the spectators. i loved being uplifted by the music. and i also loved the silence while running through the intervals without music. focus. determination. refection. 

i finished the race in 1 hour and 52 minutes. i finished feeling like i could run forever. a natural high came over me, fueling me to cross the finish line blowing kisses. when i turned the last corner and saw my mom, gino, and kristen cheering for me, i felt like i had come home. like i had traversed a route of unknowns to satisfy something within myself, coming out of it feeling inspired and welcomed by people i love. it was thrilling. 

the finish line

about 15 feet from the end

my sweet support

running the rock 'n' roll half-marathon was one of the greatest experiences of my life. as much as i try to paint a detailed picture of the day, there really is no way to convey the immense emotion and satisfaction that was felt. it will be interesting to see how the next half-marathon goes...santa barbara, i'll be seeing you in november!

note: just so you know, the bowel movement came AFTER the race! hallelujah!