I ran the NYC Marathon Sunday – my first marathon. What an amazing experience! It was much more than just a 26.2 mile run. The route, touching on all five boroughs, is uniquely exciting. There were over 43,000 runners. The massive, enthusiastic crowds along the route were loud and supportive of all runners. The whole event was orchestrated extremely well by New York Road Runners and the many other organizations that play a role in making the day a success.
Personally I was very happy with my 4:27 finish, beating my goal for the day and establishing a respectable PR. I am already planning to do this marathon again next year.
One of the most important things in getting me to a successful marathon finish was my local running club, the Reservoir Dogs. What a fantastically supportive group of young people – superb athletes, with social activities always prominent! My best advice for any budding marathon runner is to find a club, such as the Dogs, to train with and support you.
Having now survived not only the marathon but also the Reservoir Dogs marathon night celebration, I am now working on total recovery. Legs are aching but life is good!