I came, I waddled, I finished…in 2:18:12 (10:33 average pace). Only 2 minutes slower than my very first HM back in 2002!
Let me back up a bit first…
A small part of me wasn’t sure I would finish. I have never felt that way before. I was well trained (I had done numerous 8 to 12 milers in the past few months) but you just never know what you are going to get day-to-day. I was worried about the tension in my shins – would it be unbearable? Would I have to walk half the race? Would I get excessively tired? Would today be the day some new pregnancy symptom would appear?
my SIL and I at the start
At least I had the weather on my side. It was about 50 degrees at the start. Had it been anywhere near the humidity we had earlier in the week, I would have not run the race. My tolerance for humidity decreases each week I get bigger.
I knew it was going to be a good day during mile 1. I had no shin tension whatsoever (it generally appears ASAP). I was enjoying the crowds and laughing at my shadow. I looked ridiculous! I was moving slowly and was definitely doing more of a waddle than run.
I stopped to pee right before mile 3 (already?!) and then before mile 9. I lost 4 minutes total – mostly waiting in line at mile 3 – but what can you expect at 6 months?
having fun
I saw my friend Sara at mile 10 and I was so happy for the company. I was getting a little bored and really wanted to chat with someone. I was feeling really good at this point…I wanted to go faster but I knew my body wouldn’t cooperate. Or I would pay for it dearly on Monday.
After mile 12.5, I picked up the pace. I weaved in and out of runners and raced to the finish line. I had the biggest smile crossing the finish line – I wish there was a picture to capture it. My 2nd HM while pregnant done! For comparison:
HM #1 (10 weeks): 1:59
HM #2 (24 weeks): 2:18
thanks sara for letting me chat your ear off
Congrats to my SIL, Sara, Jimmy, and Jen who all had fantastic races!