26.2: The Longest Run

Last weekend, we ran our longest miles that we will run in training before tapering off until the marathon. Since I was down at UCLA with the Red Wave on Saturday, I ran 20 miles on Sunday morning. Jill graciously offered to run with me for the whole 20 miles. Vicki, who just recently completed a triathlon, ran the first 12 with us. Most awesome of all, Lindsay, Janie and Michelle biked alongside us for the whole ride. Another TNT alum biked with us for the first 12 but I'm horrible with names, and can't remember her's : ( It was so incredibly awesome to have all of their support because that is a long way to go and you really need all the encouragement (and water/gatorade) that you can get. I was seriously touched by their willingness to be there for us - this really is a team. Jill's husband Mark, Rosemary from the TNT office, and another mentor, Ron, were there to cheer us on when we arrived back at our Starbucks starting point. I love that part : )

On a sadder note, we ran Sunday in memory of Jenny Miranda - a seven-year-old who lost her battle to cancer last week. In those toughest moments of mile 18 on Hospital Hill, I definitely felt we were running for her, and for all the others out there who should be running rather than battling cancer. One day ...

It was definitely a tough run, and I'll admit there were points when I thought, "If this is so hard, how will I ever run 26.2?" but now I know I can, especially with such amazing people supporting me. As I reach the end of this journey with TNT towards the Nike Womens Marathon, it is becoming very clear that this is only the beginning - I have made some amazing friends and I would run 20 miles any day just to hang out with them for a few hours : )

Off and running ...

Switching up the order...

Two members of our faithful entourage ...I like this picture because Jill looks lost : )The sign said stop ... who am I to disagree?
The whole gang! If it looks like I'm barely moving, it's because it hurts to move. Lead the way Lindsay!

A well-deserved water break care of our well-supplied entourage.