Mark's 1/2 Marathon

Mark ran a half marathon today...and he did awesome!  He decided about 5 weeks ago that he wanted to do a 1/2 marathon rather than a triathlon this summer.  So in 5 weeks (he was already running 6 miles easily) he trained for a 1/2 marathon.  Amazing!  Way to go Mark.  We are so proud of you. 

Much of his run looked like this.  His run was out in Peculiar. It was a benefit for the high school.  He chose this run because it worked out best in our summer schedule of vacations and several activities that we have planed throughout the summer.  It was a small race, less than 500 people, but that did not bother Mark.  He had the girls and I out there cheering him on every step of the way. 

He finished about 2:10 and 20 seconds.  He ran the whole thing.  That is a long time to run!  He hydrated well, walked through the water stations (which is encouraged) had his energy gel in hand and completed a 1/2 marathon! 

The race started and finished at the high school, on the football field and track.  The girls had fun at the end running on the football field. 

Pure exhaustion...

Mark perked up at the end after resting for about 30 minutes, and having several bottles of water.  When he crossed the finish line he could hardly talk, but he did tell me never to sign up for a 1/2 marathon...hmmm.. we shall see.  He was hot and tired at the end, proud of his accomplishment, even had his Dad there in spirit at the race.  He wrote his name on his shoes and his date of birth and death.  Tom would have been proud...and we are too!  Way to go Mark!  We love you.