On Saturday I ran my first half marathon, the Dietz and Watson Philadelphia Half Marathon. Not only was it my first race of that distance, it was also my first run of that distance, and I’m so glad I chose my new home as the setting.
For a less blurry version, click the word “course” below
The course was fantastic. The hills were few and far between, and we got to see so many of the city’s unique neighborhoods. People lined the streets with signs and noisemakers to cheer on the runners, and it truly invigorated both my soul and my body. Some fans would even read my name on my bib and shout, “Go, Emily!” My favorite fans by far though were my dad and sister, who were waiting about half a mile from the finish line. Seeing them gave me just the adrenaline boost I needed to make that last stretch my fastest. The Gatorade jelly at mile 11 probably helped, too.
As for my time, I had set a goal of finishing within two hours, which is just over nine minutes per mile. During my training though, I realized this was a modest goal. My average speed, even for 8, 9, 10-mile runs was trending higher and higher, and it seemed the colder it was, the faster I ran. So crushing my initial goal on race day was exciting, but not unexpected. My official finish time was 1:52:50, or 8:36 per mile. At most points during the race, I felt like I was flying. Between the competition and the cheering fans, I was motivated to push my body harder than ever before. My mantra was if it doesn’t challenge you it won’t change you, which I read on a middle-aged female runner’s t-shirt a month or so ago. I have been changed (for good. . . Wicked, anybody?) and now I’m on a quest to find my next challenge!
My friend Maddie and me with the so-called Revolutionary Runner after the race
Race You to the Pizza 