Monday, September 19, 2011

Mt. Diablo Half Marathon, 09/17/2011

A.K.A. My 2nd Runniversary with Theresa.
And since this was the 3rd Runniversary with Theresa and Toni, I made cupcakes!

We had them for breakfast.  :)

Theresa, Me, Toni
Then it was off to tackle Mt. Diablo for 13.1 miles.  We were able to run the first 2 miles, because right at the 2 mile mark the trail becomes steeper and does not flatten out until the summit.  So, I took the opportunity to stop for a breather every chance I could take plenty of pictures to share.




And I encouraged Theresa to perfect her high-side-kicking skills.




After the one and only aid station, the final climb to the summit begins and more beauty is seen.



We made it to the top and were happy to know all we had to do now was run 6.65 miles down.


We were so happy in fact, Theresa was doing cartwheels in the parking lot!


We were making great time running down.  My goal was to finish under 4 hours.  We were on a great pace to do that.  Suddenly, with 3.5-4 miles to go, the arthritis in my right knee made itself known.  I immediately had to slow down and within a very short time I was walking more than running.  It was kind of a bummer but at least I was able to walk.  I can definitely walk pretty fast.  But I wasn't fast enough to meet my 4 hour goal.  We crossed the finish line in 4:14.  Oh well.  That mountain always wins.  Every time!

After a little chit chat at the start/finish area, Theresa and I went into town and shared a pizza and caught up on our lives even more. 

My love/hate relationship with Mt. Diablo continues. 


Until later.............

2 comments:

Ewa said...

I love Mt Diablo for picture taking opportunities :-) but boy, does it get hot there this time of year.
Looks like you guys had tons of fun - must have been the cupcakes for breakfast. :)

And not lets see if you *really* don't have word verification.

René said...

great view from the top - well worth the climb!