The Luck O the Irish

The following goes to show that hard work & dedication can & will pay off!!

March 17, 2013:  The Yuengling Anthem Shamrock 1/2 Marathon
Location:  Virginia Beach
Nike+ Time:  2:48
Chip Time:  2:59:13
Previous Time (2009) - 3:05:31(Nike)  3:16 (Chip)

Can you guess which year is which?

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Leading up to this particular race I was struggling with a sinus cold that came on quickly and just wouldn't go away. Took many home remedies (aka whiskey) the week leading up, but I think the best medicine came in the form of jalapenos & tequila that I had two nights before along with some spicy Mexican food.  This combined with ample rest (love those comfy Hampton Inn beds) & good company (thanks DK) really rejuvenated me for the morning of the race.  While a little chilly, this also happened to be the first half-marathon I've run in which I didn't stop running (except to go to the bathroom).  Maybe I should have sinus colds more often.  I had slight issues with my hip - soon to be fixed with physical therapy - but this was initially due to the cold weather.  The course is not so bad - fairly flat.  I was upset the first time I ran it that it wasn't quite along the water as I had hoped, but this year, I was thankful for the lack of wind.  The organization that runs the race does a really fantastic job with water stops, bathroom stops, and with road closures, etc.  The finish line is decked with fantastic give-aways like hats and a fleece finisher's blanket - which was most wanted with the wind chill.  And who doesn't love a race that ends with Irish stew & beer?!

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Status update on my journey to Mordor:  April 6, 2013
41 miles
 According to my mileage, I am 5 miles away from being Day 3 into my Hobbit journey. Bag End is behind me, I've entered into Tookland, eaten a frugal dinner and I've spotted my first Black Rider.