Marathon man

Throughout life you undoubtably end up doing some crazy things. But I have to say, out of everything crazy I've done, running a marathon is certainly up there on the list. Seriously, why do people willingly decide to run 26 miles in a row? The really scary part is, once you're done, you want to do it again.

OK, maybe not that same DAY or anything, but you get the idea.

Yes, I've had that crazy thought after completing my first marathon this past weekend, the Portland Marathon. 26.2 miles of fun!

I've posted a bit about the marathon idea on this blog in the past. Last January, I barely survived running one mile around the track for Al Bonney's 60th birthday, so I certainly feel proud about the fact I managed to run a marathon 10 months later. And I'm really proud that I'm able to keep up the tradition of marathon runners in the family, with my Grandpa Shafer, of course dad and mom, and some uncles and cousins on that list. No pressure though, future offspring!

Anyway, Jamie was there to cheer me on this past weekend and take some pictures. She was also toting a special sign, created for me by good old Uncle Buck. Many thanks to him too - the sign helped me pick Jamie out of the crowd as I went!

Here I am, around mile 12 or so. I felt really good during this part of the run. Little did I know.



Took a quick break to snap a picture with Jamie.



Things were going pretty well until mile 16 or so. Right before I stopped to make a planned walking break, I noticed my left calf cramp up a little. Hmm, not good. By the time I started running again after my short walk, the cramping got a little worse, so over the last 9 miles or so, I had to resort to stopping once in a while to stretch and walk.

But, I mustered up some energy to look excited when I saw Jamie again around mile 21!



The last 4 miles or so my legs were pretty sore. But, I can certainly say that all of those feelings vanish when you cross the finish line! Finishing the race was a great feeling, and my time of about 4:19 was very close to what I had predicted for myself.

Jamie and I after the race!



Only question now is, when's the next one?