San Antonio 1/2 Marathon

WE DID IT!!

Sometimes in life, you just have to find a way to push yourself to limits you never thought possible. I could not be more proud of our group that committed to run this 1/2 marathon back in July. It was a huge mountain to climb for many of us! Some of us, it was all about beating a record time, some, it was about saying, "I did it", some wanted to beat others, and some, well, "just wanted to finish". For me, it was a life accomplishment that I never thought I would go for, but once I committed to it, it was my goal and desire for me to run 13.1 miles non stop, and to make it in 2 hours or less. I had some excellent training partners who helped me every week meet the goals and keep pace on a rigerous schedule. Pounding the pavement for about 20-22 miles a week is not easy. (Physically, Mentally, and time consuming) But, our training paid off Sunday, Nov. 16th in San Antonio when we crossed the finish line. I owe a great bit of gratitude to my "Fun Run Club" partners, Todd Garner & Brian Dias. I also am tremendously greatful to my Brother, John David, for getting to experience the race with me side by side through the streets of SA. We partnered up in Corral #5, and set pace for our goal of beating 2 hours. It was a challenge beyond my wildest dream. My training paid off greatly, and we whizzed to mile 11, then the wall hit. The remaining 2 miles was pure guts and heart!! I knew what I had to do, and as the finish line narrowed, so did my vision and stides!! I crossed the finish line at 2:00.20!!! RIGHT ON TIME!!! WOW! Goal barely accomplished. I have to tell you that the last 2 miles, God knew my desires, and helped carry me. You see, almost 14 years ago after I had a total hip replacement at the age of 26, I never imagined having the opportunity to fulfill these kinds of events/activities. So, knowing that my goal was reached, and my body made it, I am thankful to God for His greatness and His ability to give me opportunities like running, something that doctors did not think I would be able to do on a routine basis.

IN ADDITION, I am overly proud of my wife!!!! Back in July, she could not run 1/4 of a mile without being too winded to continue. Her accountability/training partner, Jami Hamrick, (and often, Karla Willmeth) pushed her weekly to train and persevere. I am so happy to report that Leah ran the first 3 miles of the marathon at a 12 minute pace, and successfully finished the race, something she thought she would NEVER do. Way to go honey, and I am so proud of you!!!

CHECK OUT SOME PICS BELOW:

Todd, Jimmy, and Brian = Our own Timber Cove "Fun Run Club" My accountability partners

Running in a 1/2 Marathon with your best friend and brother, = PRICELESS!

The Timber Cove Trotters! Way to go guys, and Thanks for your encouragement and accountability. This is a life lesson for us all and our children to know that we can do anything we can do anything that we put our mind too!

Most of all, to my wonderful wife, who never even ran in her Elementary Turkey Trot, nor any sort of High School Athletic Activity, worked extremely hard in her training to learn how to run, and condition her lungs to make it past "heart attack" mode, did a terrific job, and made it 13.1 miles! I am super proud of you, and thankful you are my partner in this marathon of life. I love you!!! Way to go!