“I firmly believe that any man’s finest hour, the greatest fulfillment of all that he holds dear, is the moment when he has worked his heart out in a good cause and lies exhausted on the field of battle – victorious” -Vince Lombardi
I did it. I completed the Philadelphia Marathon in under 4 hours.
My final time was: 3:53:20!
There is nothing like completing a long-term goal when you’ve given it your best! As I crossed the finish line mentally, physically, an emotionally exhausted! When I realized I met my goal, I cried! It was an amazing feeling. It made all the training worth it!
During the race, here are the things I did that made a significant difference in meeting my goal:
I followed a Pacer – I ran with the 3:50 pace group as long as I could. They ended up getting a little ahead of me in the last 5 miles, but sticking with this group was critical to me meeting my goal.
I knew Where I stood at all Times – I had my Garmin watch on, so I knew about where I stood at all times. By mile 20, I knew I was an entire mile ahead of my pace goal of 4 hours. That helped me a lot.
I had Laura and Lindsey run the last 5 miles with me – Without Laura and Lindsey (pictured below) running the last 5 miles with me, I would have walked more. Having them by my side pushed me to keep going to and to give it my all!
I only had to use the bathroom Once! – This was huge! That is all I am going to say!
I ran through the water stations – In the past, toward the end, I would walk through water stations! Not this time! I ran through them all, it made a big difference in the end.
As for the marathon itself. The course elevation was great, it wasn’t very hilly at all! However, as for a marathon overall, I am glad I did it, but I am not sure I would do it in Philly again.
Here are some pictures from the big day:
I could not have done it without her support!
Believe it!
Laura and Lindsey ran the last 5 miles with them! They made me better!
This was the second marathon I ran with my pastor, mentor, and friend, PL!
Post-marathon Philly Cheese-steaks with my Cadre brother, Luke Brugger!