marathon envy

When I finished the marathon, I felt it was a life achievement I could check off my list. Something I was glad I had done, but NEVER planned to do again. But the mind (and body) easily forgets. My sister is running the Virginia Beach marathon tomorrow and I wish I could run with her.

Running the Chicago marathon was an unbelievable experience. The year I ran, 40 thousand people participated and more one million spectators lined the streets of Chicago. The run itself was more difficult than I had anticipated. It was hot. My knees and hips hurt. And I just didn't feel well (I was unaware little Canon was the culprit causing trouble in my body.) I had a very kind running partner who stuck with me and helped me along. I have thanked her for her encouragement, but there are hundreds of others who helped me to the finish line that I can never thank.

I had been told that if I wrote my name on my shirt, spectators would cheer for me. I was totally unprepared for the outpouring from strangers. Hundreds of people I had never met, never seen before did more than cheer for me, they made a personal connection and reminded me that I could finish the 26.2 mile run.

"Come on, Christy. You can do it!"
"Keep it up, Christy!"
"Halfway there, Christy!"
"Let's go, Christy"
"Christy, you are almost there."

These cheers were whole-hearted and deeply sincere. Each one sounded as though it came from someone who truly cared about me. It's so difficult to describe how this felt.

What touched me the most were cheers that came from children. Kids stood on the side of the road with their parents clapping their hands and calling out the names of total strangers. Their only motive was to encourage each runner to the finish line. It's such a selfless act of sportsmanship. I can't wait to take my girls to see their first marathon.

Tomorrow my sister will have her own marathon experience. I am so proud of her. She has had to quit marathon training twice before due to injury. And while I had lots of help during my training (thanks, girl), my sister has run every mile by herself.

Good luck, Lauren! I know you'll do great.