AWESOME RACE!!!!! So glad I ran this race!! It ended up being my best race ever. I have never felt so good and enjoy the whole race. My Husband ask me what I thought the difference was from this race to others. I have no idea. I know I went into it with a really relaxed attitude and set no goals for myself. It was a beautiful morning. Got to the top of the mountain and it was cold. I ran this last year and it was freezing last year so this year I was ready for it and brought a blanket with me. It was my daughter flannel sheet that was purple and had snowmen on it. I got some funny looks, but I was warm. While we were standing in line for the potties there was this deer that would come up to anyone and let you pet him. People were feeding it and petting it and it got a little too close for comfort. We stared late, but not as late as last year. There was a lot of confusion as to where the start was. Maybe because the guy didn't have it set up until minutes before we started. Started the race and I took it real easy and got myself warmed up. At mile 3 I had to go to the bathroom, which I have never had to do in the middle of a race. I stopped and went and from then I on was "ON FIRE" I felt really strong and kept steady in my run. At the beginning there was this lady I was pacing myself off and lost her when I went to the bathroom. I was really bummed about that. But between mile 6 and 7 I caught up to her. I was really proud of myself that I caught up to her. See, when I run my races I am always getting passed and I never pass anyone. Not this race. From the time I left the potty I was passing and I rarely got passed. That felt good. I used the down hills to make up some time which I think helped. And thanks to the up hill training I kicked butt on the up hills! I can honestly say I never hit the wall. That has never happened to me either. At about mile 11 I was feeling it in my pelvis but it felt better to keep running than to walk. I am really excited to get back out this week and really try to keep up what I have!!!! Had a great ice bath with some ibuprofen, a shower and a nap. Feel like a new women. Just a side note, awaiting the arrival of my newest niece. My sister was due last Thursday. I can't wait to see her!!!! Got my official time this morning and it is 2:15:34. Faster than I thought!!! That has made my week!!!
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