Erin Go Run

Mile 23   split: 7:45   marathon time: 2:57:28

Still running with Cass, she kept trying to motivate me/ coach me. It was frustrating at points because she obviously didn’t understand my fatigue, but I love that she was helping me. There wasn’t much happening throughout this mile, except that I kept telling myself that I only had a measly little 5K left to run (and you all only have one more post to read about this danged marathon).

Mile 24   split: 7:37   marathon time: 3:05:06

You all know as well as I that when I have the opportunity to brag about a performance or myself, I am surely going to take it. Like I mentioned before, we had personalized bibs, so as I ran by the crowds, they were able to cheer for us by name. Running with Cass (and as you can see by the split time, quite impressively), spectators would cheer me on, and congratulate me on my performance: “Wow, Erin! You look so strong!” “Erin, you look great! Almost there!” “You are looking amazing!” I could keep going, but I will spare you.

Mile 25   split: 7:41   marathon time: 3:12:48

Earlier in the race, when I began to believe for myself that I might actually have a great race, there was a man that had written all over his upper torso “3:20 Follow Me to Boston.” Back then, I was doubtful that I would have this kind of race. And he ended up speeding (not literally) off ahead, which made things seem realistic at the time that 3:20 would be but a dream for me. But alas, as I was running alone again here in mile 25, I approached this man who was struggling a bit. While I didn’t have the courage to pump him up and motivate him to finish up with me, I whispered under my breath, here we go, 3:20, let’s do this.