1. That wake up call
Rise and grind at 6am, bro, because it's finally race day. You have been training for weeks and out in those long hours all building up to this moment. Now, it's time to shine!
2. The starting line
What's up, fellow runners? Whoa! There are so many of us! I will be basically staring at your butts for the rest of the race, but for right now, I am pretty content being packed like sardines. Cue the anticlimactic feelings.
3. Mile 1
Adrenaline kicking in now. Yesss!! Let's do this. I feel amazing! I will finish the race in record time and beat my PR. Let's go! Bob and weave, my friend. Bob and weave.
4. The Spectator Signs
"Run like someone is chasing you." "Touch here for power." They are all watching you! You got this! You can run this race, while they are only watching from the sidelines! You will not succumb to the half marathon. Not today, son. Not today.
5. WAATTTEERR
Yes! There is an aid station coming up! Thank goodness! But just wait. Let's try to drink that water or energy drink while running. Yep, not going to happen. Happy birthday to the ground, sweet nectar! But, crushing those paper cups as you trudge through has to be one of the most fulfilling feelings. It's almost like popping bubble wrap. You secretly love it!
6. Mile 10
Okay, you feel it now. The farts are coming and you know that there is a chance that one more fart could possibly not be as airy. The runner trots are coming. Oh, look a Port-a-Potty. Yes!! You blast with excitement and do your business. But then you still have a few miles to go. And stopping and trying to get back into running is literally the hardest thing to do. But you got this!
7. Stupid Music
You have listened to the same playlist for over an hour now and are sick of it. Time for a change. There are only 3.1 miles to go. It's time to bust out that hard work of yours. Now all of those fartlek and interval training days are going to show your progress.
8. Mile 13
Oh my god!! 0.1 mile to go!! Yes!! You got this! Time for that kick! SO CLOSE!!!!
9. Finish
Yess!!! Passed the finish line!! The medal is gorgeous and oh my pictures!! Celebrate because you just ran a freaking half marathon! Go eat your weight in pasta with all of your loved ones!
10. Food Coma
Okay, it has hit you! All of the food is in your system and now it is time for a nap! See ya in a few hours, world.
11. Future Races
You did it! You tested the human body and ran 13.1 miles! Now what is next? Another half? How about a full marathon? No matter what it is, you have a runner's high and just want to do everything to test the human body!
12. Mom
You get a text from your mom saying how proud of you she is and all of the sudden, you feel so loved. Life is wonderful!
13. The Day After
Good luck, my friend! Try to walk! You won't be able to, but you got your pride and try to do so anyway. And, that, my friend, is what makes you a marathon runner. You have the heart to continue through the pain! And nothing can stop you now!
