After injuries derailed my last marathon attempt, I decided to try a three day running, two day biking approach for this marathon and focus on getting to the line healthy with a goal of finishing. Training was great – no injuries and actually fit in with my schedule. I was nervous that it wasn’t enough to get me to the finish line, but figured that as long as I didn’t mind doing a lot of walking, I could probably get it done.

So, so happy that one of my closest friends decided to meet up with me in Kentucky. We learned pretty quickly that Kentucky loves its whiskey and its horses.

After several days of rain, grateful that race day was cool and cloudy and dry. I was definitely anxious at the start since I haven’t done a full marathon in years. Took it nice and slow. Pretty course through Louisville with a short stint through Churchill Downs – definitely the highlight of the race. Really pretty (although also very hilly) portion in Iroquois Park. Felt great through 18 miles and then the wheels came off. Walked the majority of the last 8 miles but actually enjoyed myself!

I think that was the best part of this race – realizing that, at this stage in my life, training in a sustainable way that allows me to get to the finish line, no matter the final time, with a smile on my face, is really what matters. Tessa had french fries waiting for me at the finish line and, of course we had to sample some more whiskey.

25 down, 25 to go – officially the halfway mark!!!