26.2 – Done
Just a quick post (I didn’t bring my laptop so I’m posting from the business center of the JW Marriott Grand Rapids) – I finished the 2007 Grand Rapids Marathon!
No official time yet, but I’m pretty sure it is going to be around 5:24. I got to run the whole race with the man who put the idea in my head, Eliezer Appleton, which was a bonus. The course was actually one of the most beautiful runs I’ve had – mainly on wooded bike trails through a huge park just outside downtown. I would highly recommend this race if you’re looking for one to run. They do both a full and half marathon.
Thank you to all the volunteers, this race was amazingly run and I know it was because of you things went so smoothly. A big thanks to the random Grand Rapids citizens who helped my poor wife navigate around the area – she cheered me on from probably 5 different spots!
Thanks most of all to my amazing wife, Amy. Seriously I would not have made this journey without you.
6 comments
It’s been quite the journey.. congratulations!
Sounds like I may have to check this one out too. It’s driving distance.
Derek,
Running the GR Marathon with you made a huge difference to me. Thank you for pulling me through those last 3 or 4 miles when I just didn’t think I had enough energy to make it through. I knew I could walk it, but your constant encouragement to get moving again after a short walking break got me to run as much as I could.
Yes, the course was beautiful and the volunteers did a *fabulous* job. Huge kudos to them and especially to Don Kern, the race director. It was really special to get that handshake and a hug from Don at the finish. Don is an awesome guy!
My photos are up on Flickr. I’ve looked through several dozen Flickr photos on the GR Marathon Pool, but haven’t spotted any of us yet.
Great job, Derek! Let’s do it again soon.
Eliezer
Still plan on doing a full recap post with some pictures, but thought I’d add that my offical time was 5:27:53. I met my main goal – to finish, and I also met my “stretch” goal – to do it in less than 5:30.
Congratulations on your third place finish! Yes, that’s right – third place. If you check the official results, which lists early starters separately, you finished third among males in your age group.
Way to go!
Congratulations! A well-deserved Marathon finish
Congrats!!!
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