My 1st Half Marathon

13.1 miles is a long, long distance in my world. For those who are unfamiliar, the Salt Lake Half Marathon takes you all over Salt Lake - starting at the Legacy Bridge up at the U, then along Foothill to Sugarhouse Park, then clear over to 2700 S., then it winds back going through Liberty Park, along State st., down South Temple, finishing at the Gateway. It didn't really dawn on me how far it really is until race day and seeing all these different places. I can't even imagine running a full!
   
It was a beautiful day, cool, but full of sunshine. I finished in 2 hours 13 minutes. I kind of let off the gas when I knew I wasn't going to make it under 2 hours even though now I know that I can - so I may need to do another one. I was amazed at how great I felt along the way - mile 7 no prob, 8, 9 no problems, then it kind of caught up with me at mile ten, but I kept pushing. Things kept me going like the guy I was running behind for awhile who was wearing a shirt that read "Anyone who thinks winning isn't everything has never fought cancer" or another girl in a brilliant pink top that seemed to keep a steady pace with ease, and the people cheering along the street sides from beginning to end, which is more invigorating than I realized it would be and I deeply appreciated those cheers even if they weren't meant for me. All in all it was definitely worth it. I was so grateful that Jeremy was there at the finish line, capturing the moment. He's always so supportive and I can't thank him enough for that.