I really enjoy these races. They are all spaced about a month apart and are the perfect distances for training for the Houston Marathon on Jan. 15, 2012. It is a great way for beginners to get a large race experience with 2 of them including a drive into downtown Houston. It is also a good way for runners to get a feel for their fitness level, to try out different race strategies and just practice hydrating and re-fueling.
I traveled along with my girlfriends Nicole and Vickie and her husband, Mike. It is such a fun atmosphere heading to the race, laughing and talking about our goals for the day. It's Houston, so of course, it was hot and the mosquitoes at the start were fierce. I couldn't wait to get out of there and get running. I made a rookie mistake at this race last year and after I drank a whole mug-full of coffee was in the port-a-can when the gun went off. I knew better this year and was at the starting line in plenty of time and enjoyed the buzz of the crowd.
My good friend Michelle came out to cheer me on at mile 6 and 9. It was a boost to see her at mile 6 then I looked forward to seeing her again over the next 3 miles. I didn't finish as fast as I wanted to, but it was a good race, I felt strong and enjoyed it.
The post-race atmosphere is just as sweet. Lots of laughing and talking, loud music, beer (at 9am?) - I opted for the massage. I won't be running all three races of the warm up series this year. I have another meeting with the half marathon in San Antonio.
You rock Jen!! Running the warm up series and marathon with friedns like you is what motivates me to get up at 4:30 in the morning to train!
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