What a race I had in Santa Cruz Half marathon. The race began at 8am and as I stood at the start I feared I would be too cold, it would be too wet and windy. I also feared I didn't dress for this weather correctly. By mile one I took off my lovely garbage bag which warmed me so and ran at a good rhythm. I had on Capri's and a long sleeve with my TNT purple tank which had my sister Alex's name on it to remind me and others around me why I run.The people were great who I passed and ran along side of. I had high hopes to beat my personal record of 2 hours and 7 minutes but wasn't so. As I ran thought the dirt trails I got stuck behind many people who I had to struggle to pass because of the small trail we shared. When I saw Coach Tim I knew I was far off my goal. As I said hello to Tim and ran past him he replied " what do you need ?" I said " to run faster" I laughed as I continued running knowing full well my goal was out of sight.
Two miles away from the finish I was thankful for the rain and heavy winds to have held back but then I spoke too soon. I was running along the shore and I looked to the waves and boom a wave smashes into the rocks below and sprayed my face along with others. we all laughed and said that felt great! then the winds kicked up and we all had to hold on to our hats and I nearly lost mine three times.
Once I finally saw the finish and the crowds I ran a little faster with a big smile! This was my best finish ever because no one was near me to block me. I pointed to the sky in memory of Alex and thanking God for getting me through. I then moved to the finish to hear my name "here comes Victoria Pon from San Jose" sooo excited to hear my name since I am always near too many people for them to pick my number out to read my name.
As I crossed the finish line I shouted for joy and then I heard Scott say "Victoria over here". I then gave Scott a victory kiss and we made our way to lunch with friends.
We celebrated with our TNT Alumni and had a great time and it was a great way to end our race. But wait not with out an ice bath, oy vay how I hate them but love how it helps my recovery.
next race could be Giants half in San Francisco but not sure yet. stay tuned for my next adventure!
