Sunday, August 24, 2008

Top of Utah Half Marathon


Me (still with my headphones on, dork), Tim Fowler and Ashley Talbot


Yesterday I ran the Top of Utah Half Marathon along with Ashley and Tim. It was, to me, a great accomplishment seeing as though I have NEVER ran that far and I have never been this physically active after having my other two kids. I was overwhelmed with emotion at mile 2, but I knew I still had a loooong way to go so I composed myself. I really couldn't believe that I was in a race. The course was really beautiful, well the first half. Running down the canyon was just amazing, seeing all those people from very fit to not fit at all (like me), jiggling their way to the finish line (like me). Training was really hard, especially with three little kids and one that really requires so much of my time. I must say I couldn't have done it with out the encouragement of my family and friends. Running with Ashley, Maricela and Tim was extremely helpful and motivating. I have become closer to them just though this experience. Through the race I kept imagining my family waiting for me at the finish line. When I finally could see their faces and BIG smiles... for ME. I still am over come with emotion when I think about it. It was wonderful to feel that support from them. It felt a bit unreal. I finished in about 2:22, My goal was to finish in 2:30 so I am pleased with myself. Now I can REALLY say I am a "runner" and it feels great. I feel the same as Ashley does, we are here to help each other accomplish goals and to be happy and supportive of each other once we accomplish them. I have to say I am SO thankful for those that believed in me. I look forward to when I can run a full marathon, perhaps the Salt Lake Marathon in 2009 with Tim. Now, I know I can do it. My goal is to continue to run and improve my time. If I can do it so can ANYBODY!

16 comments:

Tiffany said...

I'm so glad you were able to accomplish this goal in your life. Completing goals is so empowering and I'm glad you were able to enjoy this with some friends (old and new). You are a great example of endurance--both in running and in life.

tammy lu said...

Way to go Laura! That is an amazing accomplishment!

Maricela said...

Yay!! What an accomplishment. I knew you would do it and have so much fun. I know the sore muscles suck, but they are a reminder of reaching a wonderful goal!

Carrie said...

Congrats! I can't believe that picture was taken AFTER the race. You all look so good! I'd look like death warmed over if I took a picture after running... trust me!

Belnap Family said...

Good for you!! I really am impressed. It would take a lot of encouragement for me to do that. You are awesome!

Sarah said...

Congrats! I am proud that you finished...and that you beat your goal time while doing it!

Talbot Family said...

You were amazing, what more can I say. Just cross another accomplishment off your list and move on to the next!

Anderson Family said...

Big time congratulation and kudos go out to you. It sounds like it was a great morning.

Wendy said...

Way to go Laura...congratulations !!! You had your very own olympic moment...very happy for you...I was thinking of you on Saturday...I was hoping you were doing great in the marathon. So good that you did even better than your goal time. HIGH FIVE!!!!!

Linetta said...

Great job Laura! I wish I could run, but alas, my knees would have me flat on the pavement in no time! Keep up the great work!

Megan said...

Hey Laura, that's awesome! I think Melissa and I are going to have to start the marathon trend up here in Moscow after I have meatball #2. I'm jealous of all you people getting in shape while I'm waddling around getting bigger and bigger by the week!

Megan said...

Congratulations! That is awesome!! I'd love to see your training schedule, I'm in need of one!

RaShawn said...

I am so glad you and Ashley talked tim into running the half. I was so proud of all of you. I wish I could of been there.

Maria said...

Congrats, Lau! That's awesome!

Crissy said...

Congratulations Laura! You are amazing, and truly an inspiration to me!!

Davis and Asialene Smith said...

I'm impressed. I've never liked running, but reading your post ALMOST makes me want to try a half marathon. Congrats on your accomplishment! Sounds like it was a wonderful experience. -Davis