Rockin and Rollin

...or, I survived my first Rock n  Roll Half Marathon. And on my big 4-0 nonetheless.

What was I thinking?

I was thinking it would be a nice day in San Antonio in Nov with Fall-ish weather. Boy, was I ever wrong. It was hot. At 9:00am, around my 5K point, it was already 72 degrees. I must have been delirious because I saw Elvis.

Elvis is taking off

What was I thinking?
I  wanted to finish 13 miles in under 3 hours. I signed on with the 2:45 pace group, but started back in Corral 33 with my running group. That was the party zone. I felt great the first 4 miles until the heat smacked me in the face. I walked between Miles 4 and 5, I snapped photos along the route. I talked to people as I ran. I let my usual self take over and slow my butt down.

Best signs seen along the route

What was I thinking?
It's freaking hot outside. I just want some water. I just want to take a break and close my eyes for a moment. I just want my feet to stop hurting. I just want this to be over. This was between Miles 6 and 8.

What was I thinking?

I'm just going to walk a bit and cool off. Thank goodness for the breeze and the downhill slope. All yes, finally Mile 12 - I'm almost done.

Sorry for the sideways photo. I've tried unsuccessfully to rotate - no luck.

Ha, see me with that silly grin on my face. That's because I didn't know what was waiting for me at Mile 13. I didn't even snap a photo. It was a damn hill. REALLY???? At the finish??? In the heat???? Who thinks this is a great way to finish a long-ass, feet burning, skin burning run? Ahh hell!!!

What was I thinking?
This medal was worth the heat and hurting feet. This race was a lot of fun thanks to a well-organized expo, the music along the route, the people running the race, the fun tees seen along the route, the various people cheering along the route.

Finisher's medal

yeah, I was feeling this shirt

I was not coming in behind her.

My running buddy would say: Run with your butt!

It's the Great Pumpkin!