Well, I did it! I completed my second full marathon on June 21, 2008. My first was the same marathon last year. According to my more seasoned running friends, when you have completed one marathon, you have "run a marathon". But, when you have completed two marathons, you are a "marathoner"! I have the title, so I think I will quit now:)
This marathon was more difficult for me because I was side-lined for three weeks during training with a foot injury. I rode my bike with my running parter (Kay) for the training runs while I was injured. I thought that if I was sufficiently rested and hydrated for the race, it wouldn't make a big difference. Apparently, riding a bike isn't a sufficient substitute for marathon training! The first thirteen miles were actually fun. I even thought to myself as I was running "This is really fun!". Miles 14 - 20 weren't fun anymore. From mile 20 to 26.2, I was hurting. I offered a police officer a bribe at mile 20 to take me to the finish line, but he was incorruptible. He had the audacity to say "You've only got six more miles to go." I wanted to punch him!
Amazingly, my time was two minutes faster than last year and I was able to manage a weak smile at the finish line. The two minutes I saved came from not stopping to use the Porta-Potty on the trail. Whatever works, right?
Finishing was a great confidence builder - especially when it was so painful. I don't plan on doing another marathon in the near future, but maybe a half. I have learned to never say never though. I believe there is a Honolulu marathon in January . . . you could probably twist my arm for that one!
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