This weekend I ran Virginia Beach's Shamrock 8k with my friend Kathryn. The race started at 8am so we left just after 6 to make sure we could get a parking spot. We were there so early, I got to see the sunrise over the beach.
This was the first "big" race I've ever run in. Not only was it the longest that I've ever ran at one time, but there were also 9,000 other runners. The race kicked off at 30th Street right near Neptune park.
As we were waiting for the race to start, I was getting pretty nervous and excited. We were back in Corral 4, so we had some time for a photo-op.
Once I started running, I felt great! The weather couldn't have been more beautiful. It was about 65 and sunny and not at all windy, even though we were on the beach. There was a slight cross-breeze at some of the cross streets on the Boardwalk, but it was refreshing and not at all difficult to run into.
The only time I stopped was to take my long-sleeved t-shirt off because I was so warm. I was surprised at how much energy I had. This is me about half way through the race. I felt like I could have run for miles. The sun was shining, my iPod was blasting, and my legs felt awesome!
I was surprised that I was able to run the whole thing, all 5 miles, but I did! The longest training run that I had done was 3.8 miles. I think all of my excitement kept me going. I really wanted to walk around the four mile marker, but I told myself that I had made it this far, I could finish the race.
It took me one hour, five minutes and seven seconds, but I did it; I ran and I felt great when I crossed the finish line! The race ended right where it started, at Neptune park....I don't think he looks as scary when its sunny.
We got these super cute medals for finishing. They're Shamrocks with little running feet. Here's a picture of Kathryn and me with our medals:
Then it was time for the best part - the after party! The run was sponsored by Yuengling, so you know that that means...FREE BEER!!!
They also had a guy there who was making this giant sandcastle - it was still a baby when we were done with our race, but I'm sure it was awesome by the time the full and half marathons were done the next day.
It was an awesome, great experience! I am so proud of myself! I even brought my medal and race bib into work today (they're now hanging in my cubicle)! I think I caught the running bug!!! 10K here I come!!!
