An Ode to Blair

I feel bad for Blair. This week is a fun one for me, with congratulations and accolades flowing in for my Boston qualifying time (that's not the part I feel bad about - keep 'em coming). But few people realize the behind-the-scenes dedication of family and friends that make such a run possible. These people receive no kudos, even though they should. 

I'll start with my family.

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Chicago Marathon 2009: The Full Recap

As tradition dictates, here it is. My Chicago Marathon 2009 recap. And ah-waaaaay we go!

PRE-RACE

To qualify for Boston, I had to run under a 3:45:59. I’d trained all summer on the Furman program for a 3:45 finishing time, but still wasn’t sure I could do it. I felt pretty confident I could hold the pace until mile 21 but didn’t know what awaited me after that. I told only a few people I was trying for Boston and told everyone else I just wanted to break 4 hours. I do better mentally if I know I’ve lowered people’s expectations and can surprise them with a big win…

RACE DAY

The first thing I did was slice the back of my right ankle open with a razor while shaving. Vanity, vanity…

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24 Hours to Chicago Marathon!!

Just a quick post to say I'm in Chicago with family, having a great time, relaxing before the race. My 6-year-old nephew offered to have me move in with them on a permanent basis. I said he may want to check with his Dad about paying my living expenses but he seems to think this will be no obstacle, so that's good.

We've just plotted out the marathon course and where I'll meet everyone on the course. It's going to be a cold day, but I'll take that over humidity. Getting excited.

Thanks to EVERYONE for all the well wishes. I will carry them with me.

Next post: THE RESULTS.