First Light Half Marathon Recap



Bienville Square

This is a favorite course.  I've run it several times now, at different events with slight variations.  I hope to return to Mobile in April for another half.  It's flat.  I'll even admit it's too flat, as you don't get any down hills to take advantage of. 

You get to run under huge oaks draped with Spanish moss.  The trees literally hang completely over the wide streets and form a beautiful canopy.  If you are looking for true Southern charm, this race delivers -- from the graceful antebellum homes and cottages to the Azalea Trail Maids in their hoop skirt dresses welcoming you to the finish line at historic Bienville Square.  In addition to the usual race fare, they served red beans and rice with cornbread!  (I ate as if I'd been locked in the attic for a week!) 

Last year, I ran 2:02:07.  I've had some not-so-good runs lately, so I was praying for a 2:05 or less.  Given my recent struggles, I knew this would not be easy but hopefully still attainable.  As luck would have it, I left the porta-potty facilities with only one minute to spare (did all the rest of you still in the line start late?).   I quickly scooted into the very back of the crowd at the start line, forgetting this was NOT a chip timed start.  Uh-oh.  That cost me precious time.  Being in the back, the first miles were crowded and I did nothing but dodge and weave until I decided to go with the flow.  By doing that, I was just adding distance and I needed to hang back for a while anyway.



My favorite spectators.  Look, they are holding hands!

I really felt good and strong the whole race. I could breathe!  Some of you know I don't do well in high humidity.  I did not get utterly wiped out as the humidity was only 66%, plus it was a perfect 42 degrees.  Yay for me!  At the half way point, I calculated I should come in under 2:07.  I worked hard to shave a little off in the last miles and I finished in 2:05:49.  No, not my best time -- but I'll take it! -- with whipped cream and a cherry on top.  It's the best half I've had in a while.  In addition, the last mile was my fastest.  I always feel good about a race when I can do that.  Some lady even accused me of drafting.  {What??}

Front

Back

I'd like to mention that this race benefits the L'Arche Mobile community.  Each wooden "medal" is hand crafted by adults with intellectual disabilities.  I think this adds a wonderful touch!

Bienville Square

What I didn't realize is that they awarded 5 deep in all master level categories.  Yep, I was 5th Female Grand Master and was not present to collect my award.   Ouch!  That really hurt...  However, I found out the race directors mail all uncollected awards.  How very nice!

I want to give a huge shout out to the police officers working that last mile, and their accompanying group of spectators.  Y'all were awesome with your over-the-top enthusiastic cheering and high fives!  It made a huge difference! 

This race gives me hope that if I work hard and smart, maybe I can return to lower finish times.  It was definitely motivating and a much needed confidence booster.  I may never get times I want, but I'm still out there.  I'm able.  I'm going.  I'm doing.  As long as I can feel good and can find the air in a race, I think I'll be OK.  








                           I'm linking up with Tara @ Running N Reading
                              for the Weekend Update (first time ever!)


                                Did anyone else race this weekend?