My Deseret News marathon

 Don and I did this marathon together.  We've been trying to at least do a couple things since we are basically at the same level and just wanting to have fun.  This event was on Pioneer Day, the 24th of July.  I love the anticipation and adrenaline just before an event.  It's pretty envigorating and exciting.  I started out with big hopes of finishing with a good decent time.  All started off pretty good making a pretty good pace time for the first 13 miles.  At the halfway point, Don and I were at 1:36.  We were on pace to qualify for Boston.  But, then it happened.  My left knee gave out on me.  I could not believe it!  I was soooo disappointed.  This had never happened to me before where I suffered an injury that would pretty much shut off all cylinders and hopes of grandeur.  Was Heavenly Father trying to humble me, because I was shattered.  It was so hard to see hundreds of people go by and not be able to do anything about it.  We were towards the front and then all of a sudden I find myself near the middle of the pack or even further towards the rear.  I had to sit for nearly 20 minutes before I could even walk again.  I had already called for the chaser car to come pick me up.  I was not going to finish.

 But, then I pretty much told myself that I had to finish.  There was no way I was not going to, no matter how I felt.  For the next few miles, I hobbled and walked, and at times even mustered a trot.  The knee was killing me and so was my pride.  The disappointment and realization that today was not the day I wanted it to be was killing me.  But, no matter what, I was bound and determined to finish.  Finally, at about mile 21, I was able to muster a jog again and was able to keep that slow pace to the finish line.  I finished at 3:59...1 minute before 4 hours.  Unreal!!

This face of disappointment basically summed up the day. However, I was happy for Don.  Although not qualifying for Boston, he still finished with a respectable 3:35.  He slowed down a little bit on the last 13.  I guess I am just getting older, and the joints are letting me know it.  For the next marathon in September, I will definitely be wearing my knee brace and compression socks, and maybe even get the cortisone shot beforehand.  Still 1 more shot to try and qualify for Boston.  I'll just try to remain positive and keep trying