Reflection on my first half-marathon

Last weekend, I completed my first half marathon. I'm still feeling some minor effects of the race (and probably didn't let myself rest enough before getting back in the gym), but it was worth it.

Being the only one in the group racing this distance for the first time, I was definitely feeling the pressure as we lined up in our corrals. It was a little chilly at the start, and there was a light rain shower passing through as we crossed the start line.

Matt and Chad started first in Corral B. A few minutes later Jessica and I got our start. The first three miles were entirely dedicated to getting around other racers to try and get up to a comfortable race pace. Running with 30,000 other people means you have to stay alert the entire race.

We crossed the first bridge around mile 3. This was my first "pretty" view of Pittsburgh. The next couple miles were uneventful, though I was not prepared for the constant up and down the course provided.

Shortly after mile 6, Jess and I grabbed some water and ate our gels. There were fans cheering at almost every corner of the course, which helped me keep up my motivation.

Around mile 8 my body started getting fatigued. I tried to keep my mind occupied by reading the race signs. A couple favorites: "Bob couldn't be here today because he has pink eye...again." and "Welcome to mile 7. You only have...a s&*t ton of miles left."

I knew that mile 11 would be the most difficult feat of the race, since it was the most significant incline of the course, especially intimidating because of the inevitable fatigue I'd feel after running the previous 10 miles. As we crossed the bridge that led us to the bottom of Forbes St. I told Jess I was scared and she gave me a running side hug and reminded me that we were almost done (and that I could celebrate with a mimosa back at the hotel). As we came down the Boulevard of Allies I felt relief for the first time in the race. I knew success was around the corner.

My official time was 2:13:01. I would have liked to finish under 2:10, but now I'll have a record to beat in my next half marathon...which will not be for a while. This race was undoubtedly the most difficult thing I've ever put my body through, but the feeling of completing 13.1 miles without walking made it worth the pain.