And the results are in!

Hi all!

Okay, let me get to the information that you all first are dying to know. I finished in 4 hours 15 minutes and 14 seconds (9:45 / mile pace). My first immediate observations:

• This was the hardest thing I have ever accomplished (and I do count my numerous degrees when I make that statement)
• Things that NEVER happened during training will happen on race day. Example: I had no blisters in spite of running in 90+ degree heat. I also made sure to wear the same shoes and socks I trained in. Yet, I ended with a huge blister on my toe.
  
• That was the most painful experience of my life (I am sure childbirth probably compares but since I have not had that experience yet, this will be tops on my list) In the hours since finishing, I am experiencing what marathoners call the "marathon walk." If you need a visual, imagine a penguin waddling, no bent knees, wide stance. Yes, I look as funny as it sounds. I fully anticipate this pain getting worse in the coming days.
• There is a lot of cheering for Team in Training members. TNT stated that they should write our names in puffy paint on our shirts. Unfortunately, this meant that I heard "Go Misty" a lot. In one case, while running with my coach Holly, I heard "Go Holly's Friend!" If I ever run for Team in Training again, I'll need to solicit nicknames to write on my shirt.
  

As far as the experience of running, miles 1-15 were going fabulously. I felt really strong and felt that I was going at a great pace. After around Mile 15, there was a gradual downhill. In the end, there was minimal walking and my final times also includes the 1.5 minutes I spent having to take a potty break. To get through, I had Dori from Finding Nemo in my head, particularly after mile 20 ("Just keep runnin', Just keep runnin'). I have to give huge public props to Misko, Seth, and Lynn for being in very ideal locations cheering me own (and in some case with signs) when I REALLY needed it. You all brought a smile to my face and helped me to pick up the pace at the most ideal time.

As far as post race activity and things coming up this week, when asked by my mother what I wanted to eat, my response was "eggs" so I had a fabulous omelette from First Watch. I do have to go to work and school tomorrow. I am only hoping that I can get down the stairs out of my apartment. If the pain is too great, then those at work and in class will know what happened. On Thursday, I will also be getting my first ever professional massage. This is rather significant because as PT, I typically am asked to provide massages, yet never have the opportunity to experience it.

Finally, and MOST importantly, I want to give my most sincere thank you to all of you that have showed your support with donations and / or frequent e-mails. Running this marathon was a huge personal undertaking but I was definitely thinking about the great mission of the Leukemia and Lymphoma society, especially during the rough stretches. Knowing that my run will directly benefit a family that truly needs the support made the experience even more worthwhile. I have already been asked if I would run a marathon again, and I definitely would (although the timing will definitely depend on where I am in getting my degree). However, when I do, joining Team in Training would definitely be my choice. I would recommend it to anyone considering running any long distance. The support and friendships are things that will for me last a lifetime.

Finally, it will take a couple of days to get the pictures from the race. Until then, I've posted a picture taken by Lynn as I was approaching the finish. This was the most exhilarating, exhausting, and nauseating (yes, I was fighting the urge) part of the race.

Thanks so much to everyone for embarking on this fabulous journey with me!

Mitsu