I have to say, we were NOT prepared for the hills. The heat that hit later in the race didn't help much either. That said, I am proud of us for accomplishing this goal and I look forward to crushing our time next time around.
I tried to document this experience as much as possible. I hope you enjoy the pictures.
On Friday we drove to Nashville to pick up our gear.
The night before I laid out all of my gear. We had to leave the house at 4:00 am in order to be guaranteed free parking near the finish line.
This is the line we waited in so that we could use the "bathroom" one last time before the race. I am pretty sure that I am scarred for life. Nobody should see the things I had to see.
Walking to the start area at Broad and 8th street. Pretty fun to be immersed in such a huge group of runners (over 30,000)
So, the official start of the race was at 7:00 am, however, due to the wave start, our coral wasn't released until just before 8:00 am!
Mile 2 - "I am rocking this, watch out elite runners, I am totally going to catch up to you."
"Well, it is Nashville"
Mile 4 - "Oh my word, I am totally going to die."
Band playing along the way. There were several throughout the course.
When ya gotta, go, ya gotta go. I think someone had to go...
I think this was somewhere around mile 5
More live music
One of my favorite signs along the way. If only I could run that fast.
There were so many people along the course, holding signs, cheering, handing out water bottles and food (not just the race volunteers, but people who were just out in front of their house!)
One of several medical tents along the course.
Mile 6 - "I hate everything, everyone, shoes, feet, legs, sun, and running."
Shortly after the mile 6 marker I saw this banner. I really needed it at this point.
This church was playing Christian music and had members cheering and encouraging the runners.
This older gentleman totally passed me
ugh
Mile 10 - "I think I might actually finish this"
Mile 11 - "Really, its only been a mile? Yup, definitely going to die on this course"
Decisions, decisions.
Mile 13 - "Thank you, Jesus" Literally, I was praying at this point.
Suckers on the other side of the fence!
(otherwise known as the full marathon participants)
First view of the finish line!
They must have seen me coming...
Finishing with my best friend and the love of my life :)
So, when is my next half? June 7th....oh my...
#mysarcasticallycharminglife
#runcmm
