Officially an Endurance Athelete

I did it! I am now officially an endurance athelete having completed the Dublin Adidas Marathon in just a few seconds over 6 hours and 30 minutes. A very respectable time for a first time walker. The conditions were perfect for the event. It was a relatively clear, cool day. The course was a 26 mile loop around and through the City including 5 miles is beautiful Phoenix park. We had a lot of support from the locals, lining the streets and cheering us and giving us a chorus of well done on as we passed by.

The last few miles were really tough but Coach Ellen hooked up with me and kept giving me short term goals to keep me on pace. See the red jacket up ahead? Catch them by Mile 24. I am so thankful to her and the rest of the coaches that joined me for a few miles on the course.

Physically, I made it through with just a few minor blisters. The feet were not a problem, which was a great relief. I had also been fighting a cold and had some stomach issues the couple of days before which was another concern but it all came together for me on race day.

After 6 days in Dublin, seeing the sights, I'll be spending the remainder of my time touring the countryside starting in Waterford and then continuing on to see the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula.

There's too much to tell right now but I'll be sure to fill in the details in future posts. I'm off to eat some fish and chips and drink a creamy Guinness!

Thanks everyone for your support.