My Half-Marathon

Last Sunday, December 11, 2011, I participated in my first half-marathon. It was the Dodge Latin Music Half-Marathon in Miami Beach benefiting The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

I honestly hadn't trained the way I should have. My longest runs, which I only did once each, were 6 miles and 10 miles. I nearly died on the 10 mile run.

It was one of the most challenging things I have done so far. I had to push myself emotionally, mentally, and physically throughout the entire race to finish. The elements were rough - it was sunny, raining, and windy throughout the race. I'm not talking about a light shine on your back; I'm talking about Miami 85 degree blazing sun near the beach. Luckily, midway through the race it started pouring. I finished off with a combination of sun and wind.
Every time I wanted to stop or walk slowly, I fought with myself and I kept going. I tried to put my body on autopilot for the last few miles, and I made it.

It was honestly one of the happiest moments I have had in a long time.

My official time was 3 hours 4 minutes for 13.1 miles. I was so very proud of that finish, and that my new years' resolution is now complete. ;)