LA Marathon 2003 - 05:23:15

and, it's over. at least, the marathon is over. "recovery" has just arrived in full force and should take a week or two to get over. my calves scream when i walk, i'm less a few toenails, and i'm beginning to gain back the 5 pounds i lost during the run.

however, an unreal experience. an amazing day. we had picture perfect weather (crystal-clear skies in LA?) and thousands of people cheering us on along the entire length of the course. i was shooting for a 4:45 (11 minute miles). and, at halfway, i was right on time (2:23). but, alas, "The Wall" arrived, with little mercy. this is when your body has used up what it thinks is your entire amount of fuel and begins to shut down. or rather, shuts down all at once. each step becomes a concentrated effort, and on top of that, thoughts aren't connecting real well up there anyway... if a wall is to be hit (some aren't affected), it will arrive between 18-22 miles. it arrived at 22 or so for me.

i ran straight for 22.5 miles. then i had to begin walking/running for fear that if i didn't, i'd have passed out or worse. a lot of people do a run/walk thing the entire race, starting from mile 1. i was going to see if i could run, albeit slower, the entire way. felt ok most of the time (even though i could have slept longer the nite before), but didn't want to risk not finishing just outta selfish ambition. besides, it was my first marathon... maybe next time... (!?)

thanks to all who called / emailed and supported me. way cool. and thanks to mom, cheri, fucci, and anna for being there.