SHAPE 1/2 Marathon & 3km Fun Run

Today was the 2nd Annual SHAPE 1/2 Marathon & 3km Kids Fun Run. Emilie decided to run the fun run about 2 minutes before the race. So she removed her jacket and lined up on the starting line. After a pistol start she was off and running. After a bit we watched her re-enter the final portion of the course. She ran the whole way and finished in 12:55 (6:54/mi pace). She was a bit tired and sweaty but had a big smile on her face. For her participation in the days race she received her first racing medal and a nifty water bottle. Great job kiddo!!! After the kids had their fun it was the moment of truth for Ed. 1 year waiting and 12 weeks of training came down to this. Ed was off on his first 1/2 marathon. As warned, by his marathoning sister-in-law Kris, he went out a bit too fast. After settling down he got into his pace. At mile 8 began the dreaded hill back up to SHAPE. 2 miles uphill later it was tough getting his pace back. Heading down the hill for the final 4 miles he got passed. This motivated him to pick up the pace and try and retake his place in the race. Passing mile 11 he did that and held on. Rounding the front entry to SHAPE he was greeted by Tori, Emilie and Molly who ran next to him until the final stretch. Buffy was cheering at the top of her lungs and snapping pictures. It was a great feeling to have their support. When the timer came into view it was under Ed's target time. 1 hour 44 minutes and 21 seconds. A new personal best (thankfully being his first race it had to be) and a good run. The legs are a bit painful and it is hard to walk but overall the experience was a good one.