Marathon Report

It has been a couple of weeks since I ran the Baton Rouge Beach Marathon and I have neglected to report a summary of the day.

The race was wonderfully well organized from packet pick up to start to route to post race fare. This was a relief, because the race's website had seemed really amateurish. I could not have asked for anything else.

The weather was fantastic in my opinion. About 35 at the start, barely hitting 50 at the finish. A little wind, but not worth complaining about.

Biggest crowd was running the half. So I ran the first lap constantly surrounded by people. However at the half the course suddenly was nearly empty. Fortunately I quickly connected with Bob from Cincinatti who was shooting for a similar finish as I was. Bob and I stuck together till about mile 21 or 22. At which point, my son jumped on the course and escorted me home.

It was by far my best home stretch of my three marathons. But I still would not wish them on my worst enemy. But thanks to a strong first lap and company on the second I headed to the finish ahead of my goal pace which took some pressure off.

I crossed the line at 3:54:39. Achieving my goal of breaking 4:00:00 and taking more than 14 minutes off my previous PR.

Which could explain why I plan to back next year!

Recovery was (and is) another story. Four days of agony. Six days before I could run again. Two weeks later I have only run four times and am currently nursing a very tender foot.

But did I mention I broke 4:00:00? No complaints here.