Why Cleveland? Rocks N' Runs 1/2 Marathon Report

Photo & Video Slide Show

That was the question I got from so many. On the course, friends and family at home, hell even strangers. It started back in November when I told an online We Wa pal, Maria I had the desire to do a marathon, but I wanted to start with a ½. She encouraged me that I could do it. I did not even know how to start to train for something of that caliber. Maria, took the time to make me a fantastic training schedule with 3 days of running since running consecutive days is a no-no from the Doc. Maria, would check up on me, and I would text her when I would hit monumental mileage. It was awesome to have someone take me under their running wing.

As, this race neared I never really got nervous. I felt prepared, and excited. That is till race morning. It started out really cold, high 40’s and raining. I am from Texas people where that kind of weather makes for a Blockbuster night, with the fireplace going, and flannel pj’s. I had made sure to charge the iPod, but when I got to the start line I looked at the iPod. I had left it on all night so it was dead. I handed it to Shane pouted for a second, and he said, “Are you really going to freak out about that.” I can do short runs without music, but 13.1 miles and 3 hours of running seemed intimidating without musical encouragement, or a musically induced comma.

Miles 1-4: I ran about 2 miles with a brother and sister. We talked, and of course they asked the mandatory, “Why Cleveland?” I started feeling good, the legs were warming up and we parted ways. Then came some hills, and even a freeway entrance ramp. WTF? I hate driving up a freeway ramp with a stick shift much less my legs! I remember what Coach Joan from PIM said, walk through the aid stations no need for me to miss my mouth while drinking water or sucking GU.

Miles 5-9: I was still feeling good. The course had flattened out, and the sun was coming out. I would keep looking for Shane, but never saw him. I never really talked to anyone through these miles, just taking in the scenery of a new city. They did have a few rock n roll stations and each represented a decade of music. At, the Motown section I remember doing a little shimmy to “Baby Love” with the lady next to me. I only made it to the 70’s since it followed the rest of the marathoners. So, I got some Eagles “Take It to The Limit” action that I love.

Miles 10-13.1: I was starting to feel tightening of the legs. There was one smaller incline to go. North Bridge, but I had looked at my clock and I knew I was making good time so why the hell would I slow down now?! I ran next to this man at the beginning of 10 who told me, “You’re huffing.” I replied, “I will huff and puff till I blow this ½ out.” I guess I get smart asstastatic when I get tired. I finally saw Shane at 11ish, it was a big pep up that got me through 12 easily. I am not going to lie though, I felt terrible at 13. It was tough, and I looked like it was tough. My stomach got into some weird knot, and my legs were wound up tight.

I still am proud of myself. I accomplished something I worked hard to do. I made my mind up that I would see this through and gosh darn it I did. I set a realistic goal for myself to do it under 3 hours, and I thought 2:45 would be terrific, but when I saw 2:42:23 I said, hellyeamuthafuckas!! I did my longest run during training of 12 miles at 2:58:17. So, now you understand why less than 3 hours would have made me very happy.

I did fall walking on our way back to the hotel. I saw the uneven concrete, and thought I lifted my foot. I guess I did'nt.

I felt miserable for about 3 hours after my shower. My stomach was just a tight knot. I could not hold down any food. It finally went away, and I am good now. The flights home left me feeling tighter. I will continue streching, and some walking tomorrow. I will catch up with you guys tomorrow. I hope eveyone had a great weekend. Looking forward to some other reports.

Why Cleveland ?
At, first I was going to Cleveland to run a ½. What it turned out to be was a fabulous weekend with great people, and I just happen to run a ½ Marathon.
Why NOT Cleveland.

Official Results:
Distance
HALF MAR /13.1 Miles /21K
Chip Time
02:42:23
Overall Place
2892 / 8007
Gender Place
1483 / 3942
Division Place
254 / 629
Age Grade
83.9%
Pace
12:23.1

Garmin Splits :
Mile 1 (12:18)
Mile 2 (12:30)
Mile 3 (13:11)
Mile 4 (12:06)
Mile 5 (11:44)
Mile 6 (12:42)
Mile 7 (12:16)
Mile 8 (12:24)
Mile 9 (13:26)
Mile 10 (11:45)
Mile 11 (12:17)
Mile 12(11:58)
Mile 13(11:52)
Mile .18 (11:06)