Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon This was my second marathon and my second running of this particular marathon. I love OKC! My goal was as follows: 1. No injuries..........check 2. PR........................better luck next time 3. 4:15.....................better luck next time 4. 4:10.....................better luck next time 5. I'll take anything below 4:25.................better luck next time Chip time: 4:29:02 10:17 pace Had a plan (and I believe the training was in place) for 4:15:00 9:44 pace. Did not follow plan. Too many faster paced miles early in the race. What was I thinking? Walk breaks began at mile 23. This race proved to be a wonderful opportunity to relearn the value of executing a good plan. Had a great time before during and after the race! I was definately enjoying the experience (and still am). Somewhere along the earlier miles of the race, a spectator had two lifesize cardboard cutouts. One of Paris Hilton, and one of some hunky guy ( I think). In a fit of exuberance, I ran over, took Paris Hilton in my arms and gave her a big kiss. This got a fun response from the runners. (I kinda got a charge out of it too!) She's taller than I thought. For some reason, along about mile 23, that stunt didn't seem quite so fun. I'm very grateful for the support from my family and friends throughout the race....this was awesome, almost overwhelmingly so. They lined the course, cheered and held signs for me at mile 13, mile 23, and again near the finish. Thanks also for the running education and support you all have provided me here at RA. Let the fun continue!

Great run even though the PR did not come. You had a blast that sure comes thru and your enthusiasm is easy to see. Sounds like a great marathon and one you really enjoy doing. Great support for you too. The next one will be better. Best Tall

Hot and windy? Ugh, Evryday, cut yourself some slack. Save the faster times for better conditions. Sounds like you had fun and ultimately, if this stuff isn't fun, why do it? Good job on this one. (Hey, at least you finished! )

Yes the fun part came thru in your report and that is ultimately all that matters. But, there should be a fine for not mentioning the sucky weather conditions, or pictures, or a description of your race attire. I had to LOL about your stunt not seeming so brilliant by mile 23!

Congratulations on a fine job in your second marathon, evryday. From what others have said, you battled some tough conditions. I like your pleasure in the support of family and friends and that you enjoyed the experience. Way to go. TomS

OMG -- too funny about the cut-outs! Sounds like you had a solid effort out there. Sorry that your 2-5 goals eluded you, but you'll get them next time, for sure! Thanks for taking the time to write up the report. It was a good read.

You stuck it out in rough conditions, finished your training and race without injury, learned a few lessons on pacing, and had a great time. That is success in my book. I love your attitude - and that's a good lesson for all of us who sometimes take this all too seriously. I see more races, more fun and better finish times in your future.

74 degrees with humidity and high winds? Sounds like you had a smokin' time considering those conditions. Great job and congratulations on achieving the most important goal of all - finishing without injury!