Omaha Half Marathon

Well, I kept telling myself that a half marathon would be a great accomplishment.  After the state fair 5K, I just couldn't stop thinking about it.  I had been putting off this race for some personal reasons and I just couldn't justify that anymore.  I actually wanted to do the Lincoln Halfsy in November but it was full.  So, I signed up with a month to train.  I was a ball of nerves that morning.

100s of people.  This was the crowd for the half and full marathon.

I'm stretching like I know what I'm doing...ha ha!

Sooooo nervous!

They had us start next to the pacers that we thought we would run.  So, these are the fastest runners!!!  Go for it speeds!

I'm off!  It was a beautiful morning.  The temperature was just right!

Matt caught the start on video.  People just kept coming!

Matt and some of my family were in the park to see me at mile 5 and 8.

I was feeling great!

I'm back!  Only 5 more miles!

I can still smile!

Urgh, this girl was my motivation.  We traded places at least 5 times.  I did beat her though!!!!

Woah, action!

Entering the stadium!  We had to run alllllll the way around!  Say what??

I did it!  I passed the 1:55 pacer guy just before the finish line.

Matt got the stadium run and finish line on video!  I surprisingly had a kick.

My huge medal!

Then we had some time to relax before Gigi ran the 5K.  I was starting to feel like crap.  :(  

What a wonderful experience and to be proud of!!!

My goal was to run under 2 hours.  Well, I did it!!!!!!  Now, I stalk half marathon results online and see how I would have done.  I think I can officially say I am hooked!

My race!

Although I speak very positive about it now, my recovery was awful!  We think I was highly dehydrated and my body wasn't used to aleve, two gels, little water, 13 miles, chocolate milk after race, and lunch.  So, I will need to follow a regimen the next time I run so I don't have a repeat recovery.  Matt took care of me and I was back to normal by Tuesday.  :)

I found a couple quotes that I really love!!!

So, who is with me the next time????