Glass City Marathon

Ran the Glass City Marathon yesterday!  Came in  at a decent 3:58:11 finishing time considering the 80 degree heat.  3:30 was the orginal goal under ideal conditions but at mile 16 there was little breeze and lots of sun so the goal time was out.   I’ll still take the finish since that’s what it’s all about, finishing, meeting the challenge of the distance, and having fun!

After 16, I was pouring water over my head at every waterstop trying to keep cool.  From 17-20 there was little breeze and I felt I was overheating so I slowed to a walk/run.  There were two people out with garden hoses and that was helpful.  I was wishing every homeowner was out there.  At 21, I started to find a decent stride and was able to run most of the rest of the way, albeit at a slower pace!

Mind games helped.  The Broadway section of the course is long and flat and kind of boring.  Imagining the trail at Oak Openings metropark where it’s more scenic, has twist and turns, and is cooler, helps to keep your legs going.  Keeping your mind occupied and not thinking about how tired your legs are will get you to the finish line every time.

Other than the heat, the race went well.  The Toledo Road Runners hosted the event and it went smoothly aside from a small glitch or two.  It was a relatively small race with 1,600 plus marathoners, half-marathoners and 5-man relay teams and 5k racers.  They made improvements in the course and added the half-marathon this year and they did a good job.  Next year should be even better and probably have a bigger turnout.  The volunteers were great as usual!

Friends Jim Hunt and Frank Cody were there to run as well.  Frank got a second place in his age group in the half-marathon which he does regularly and Jim finshed well in spite of a pulled muscle.  I was able to run the last few yards with Jim and I always admire how he can push through tough races.  Way to go guys!  Christine Hunt and David Large met us on the course for encouragement and support.  Friends and family like these certainly make going 26.2 a whole lot easier.

Last year was freezing cold and this year was blistering heat.  Wonder what next year will bring… though it may not matter as I hope to be running Boston with 25,000 of my best friends next April!