Marathon Clinic

Today was my first Marathon Clinic.  The husband and I woke up at 6 am, ate breakfast and drove the 20 plus miles out to Kapiolani Park.  We got there about 20 minutes early and I was nervous as I approached the large group.

We listened to Dr. Gaff talk about logistics, rules, clothing, books, shoe talks and to be honest I was getting very, very antsy.  I just wanted to get out there and run.  The standing in the chilly wind surrounded by runners was making me INSANE!!

After what seemed like hours it was finally time to break up into groups.  The hubby and I chose the Gray Group which was a 10:30-11:00 pace per miles.  We then set off to run up Diamond Head.  As we approached Diamond Head I got even more nervous since I had just ran that route two weeks ago for a race.  In my head I remembered it as grueling and I just hoped I would be able to make it up the hill with the group.

During the ascend I felt pretty good and thought that the pace was maybe a little too slow for me, however, knowing that today's run would be 6 miles I stuck with the program.  We passed Gladys on our way up.  She is the oldest woman to complete a marathon.  Between her and all the other people living a healthy life style by running, walking, biking, and surfing around me the positive vibe was permeating the air.

We made it up the hill, down and headed to Triangle Park for our first rest stop and water break.  At that time we did introductions and I noticed another runner that I knew through my job.  We started to chat and run off together.

For the rest of the run I chatted with the other runners and enjoyed the beautiful scenery around me.  Before I knew it we were back at out starting point.  A few of the group were going to run a lap around the park and we said what the heck and joined in.  8 miles done.

I had no idea 8 miles could be so easy when running with friends.  :)  And now I am off to do my homework.  We have to run for 60 minutes twice a week.

Van mommy is off and running!