Snow Canyon Half Marathon

I ran my first half marathon this Saturday. It was down in St. George with gorgeous weather, fantastic route, and great company. I ran it with my friend Mandy. I loved running through the canyon, feeling one with the nature. It was a pretty good course, although a little more hilly than I had expected. My least favorite part was the out-and-back part, on the dirt road, parts of which were sand and entirely uphill. Over two miles of constant uphill. Have you ever tried running on sand? You feel like you're running in place. Regardless of it being my least favorite part, I liked running the -back portion of it, because I could see that there were still loads of people behind me. I had a secret fear of crossing the finish line dead last. I didn't really train for time. My goal was to run the entire thing without stopping till I crossed that finish line. Which I did. But the fear of being last was still there.

It feels great to have done it. There is something great about gaining control over your body, about feeling healthy, and strong, and in shape. It's hard to put a name on it. But it gives you this inward feeling of self-satisfaction.

I look pretty wasted here, approaching mile marker 12. Not sure why that lady behind me is wearing her number on her crotch.

Not my most glamorous picture...

Mandy and I at the end of the race with our medals.

...and, yes, I am REALLY sore today. It's a great feeling :o)