The day before the marathon, we attended the "first timers clinic" at the St. George Expo Center. There seasoned veterans took us through the course mile by mile, offering helpful tips and interesting facts. One fact that stood out, in the 32 years of the Marathon, it has only rained once.
Leading up to the event Bob and I were quit nervous about the elevation, but even more so about the heat. Imagine our surprise when we awoke that morning to gray skies and a light drizzle. As we drove up the mountain to the start line the drizzle progressed to a downpour. Heat was not an issue.
I had a passing sense of Deja Vu. Alaskan runners are very experienced at running in dripping cloths and squishy shoes.
Taking into consideration the poor weather I would still describe the experience as ADDICTIVE. I loved it!
In part due to the decision I made the day we departed Ted Stevens International. I determined to heed the wise council of veteran St. George marathoners Kiirsten and Megan and try not to stress but enjoy the moment.
To do so, I had to find a way to alleviate the nausea inducing anxiety. I decided to break the runners code and ignore my Skinny Raven Speed training. The decision to participate, not compete was a difficult one and while I ended up on the road much longer than previously planned, I do not regret the decision to ignore time.
The course was amazing. The start line is located at an elevation of 5,240 feet. It is located in a little town carved out between two canyons. Runner are greeted by strobe lights, loud music and multiple bonfires. The gun goes off before dawn so the first few miles are run in the dark. At dawn the bright red rock canyon walls are stunning, even in the rain.
At mile 7 the course loops up for a mile around historic Veyo Volcano. While the incline is certainly noticeable, the scenery is mesmerizing. The next miles are rolling but lead ever downward. With the exception of one significant hill at mile 18, the terrain runs down, down, down with an ending elevation around 2,600 feet.
The energy near the end is electric, the crowd amazing. I had the feeling running down the shoot to the finish line that I was a conquering hero. Bob who had finished 37minutes before me jumped in to hold my hand the last 50 meters. For a few precious seconds I clock my fastest sprint ever, a blazing 6:10.
Crossing the line was pure euphoria.
I always feel confident and excited up to the point I actually have to start running...That's when it all begins to fall apart. Luckily my guy is right by my side, or right in front of me that is. Where's Kyle now that I need him?
I start out great, good pace, easy terrane and as usual I am toast by mile 6.75, around the same time my guy calls out "let's speed up"...an idea as tempting as brushing Sadie's teeth. I'm only able to keep moving by utilizing a little technique I developed myself. Basically I stare at the ground hoping not to notice the monster hill I'm attempting to climb. It doesn't work too well.
