Who doesn't like a little Rock n Roll?

Last weekend I was able to complete my fourth and fastest National Marathon in Washington D.C..  This was the first year that it was a Rock n Roll event which meant a lot more people.  I've said it before but I enjoy this race and the course much more than Marine Corps, and National is the only marathon that stays within city limits for all 26.2 miles.  And to top it all off I ran this race as a Team in Training participant, enough said.

I began the race with my amazing girlfriend Kelly and good friend, big sister, and mentor Nancy Cooper.  I couldn't have asked for two better people to start a race with...and we were off.  I had a decent feeling about this race and even thought that I may be able to bring home a PR.  Although as I tried to get a few fast miles early in the race I knew it would be tough because the crowds of runners were larger than I had anticipated.  I managed to get through the first half with a decent time and a time that would allow me to have a few slower miles towards the end if needed.  As I pushed along I began to feel tired legs, Seneca Creek 34 miler was to weeks prior, and the temperature began to rise.

This however was what I was hoping for, I wanted to have the opportunity to run hard on tired legs and experience warmer temperatures.  I stayed on top of my nutrition and salt as best I could, slowed down around mile 24 to dance to a Go Go band and then finished strong.  I didn't run my fastest marathon but managed to put together a solid second.

I've come to fully understand that running and especially distance running is about experience, knowing your body, nutrition, and mental stability.  I have a long long way to go but feel as though I am beginning to put all of these together, I have no choice because Vermont is less than 4 months away!  I took away a few things from National.  Once again I was reminded of how much I enjoy trail running and how running roads for longer lengths make me feel like I have been in a bar fight.  I was reminded that I feel more at home with smaller races and smaller crowds, probably a strong coincidence I enjoy small bars.  And finally I was reminded that it's not what's happening with your feet and legs but what's going on between your ears and what's in your heart.  It's about fortitude.

The Chinese Zodiac says that I am a rabbit.  Other than the redeeming characteristics of being compassionate, lucky, smart and creative I am not sure that I fill any of the other defining attributes.  In fact it should be added that the rabbit is passionate.  I love running.  I love the science behind it, all the gear that's involved, and all the wonderful people that it has brought into my life.  I love how it can test my will, and I love how it has helped shape me as a person and as a father.