I competed. I ran to my utmost. It’s over. I’m happy.

53rd place and a solid time of 2:22:34, I could not ask for much more. It’s hard to believe I was coming off injury and barely running 3 miles/day a full year ago. What a year. This year has made me a firm believer in what solid training and commitment can do. I spun my wheels and basically neglected my running for 5 years after college. Now at age 28, I feel like I am just getting started. What will next year hold?

I posted a complete, detailed race report on my training log HERE. But in a nutshell I’ll just say that this was one of the thrills of my life. Running with that thick of a pack, in that electric of an atmosphere was unmatchable. The closest I had experienced before was XC Nationals. But this was so much bigger, so many more spectators, and so much more on the line.

The USATF and NYRR did a great job and treated us like kings. Some people complained about certain things, but the way I see it, we are just running. We produce no tangible product. If someone wants to give me anything, I am grateful for it, and treat it like a gift. (that said, I’ll take all the “gifts” I can get!) So thanks again to all involved in making this weekend happen.

Everyone who participated has there own unique story to tell. I would find them all equally engrossing. I’ve seen so many highlight reels at this point, but yet remain glued to the screen while watching the NBC Sports replay coverage online.

Not all stories are good though. The story of Ryan Shay breaks my heart. I did not find out until about an hour after the race, while sitting on the bus before lunch. I was just shocked. I think all runners feel it, whether we were there or not, whether we ever met him or not. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife and family.