That day was today--a beautiful but windy cool morning. The kids were excited! The staff let us park closely. As far as I could tell, Elena and Avery were the only motor-impaired kids running this final mile.
Pre-race |
Team Doodle |
Running friends |
We waited in line for at least 20 minutes, the kids trying to stay warm in the cold breeze. Once we started running, everyone warmed up quickly.
And we're off! |
I thought E would do her usual run-and-stop. SHE DIDN'T. Maybe it was the thrill of the race, maybe it's her increased endurance--but she never stopped. She took a few walk breaks, but really, not too many.
E and Viv stayed together for most of the mile |
Elena wanted water a little over halfway; I told her with real races, they have water stations. I told her she was supposed to grab a cup of water, on the run--take a drink and throw the rest. We had a few mock-water practices--when the moment came, she was thrilled to do it like a real marathoner!
Didn't skip a beat--that's her cup after she's done (on the left) |
Jason and Viv started pulling away near the end of the mile. We were all cheering for each other!
E can see the finish! |
Elena's mile race before this was the Jingle Bell Run; it took her 28 minutes, which was her typical pace pre-marathon training.
Elena finished her mile in 17 minutes, 30 seconds (new personal record!!) Vivian finished in ~15 minutes. Both girls were tired and very proud of themselves!!
We met up with Avery and her family after the race--she got her own personal best time too! Then it was off for brunch--in their new medals!
Runners! |
Thanks to tbe Blue Ridge Marathon staff--especially for the golf cart ride back to our car, and a HUGE thank you to Mr. Keith (our Feldenkrais practitioner) for coming to cheer us on! It was a beautiful day, with wonderful people, and a fun event!