Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona – Half Marathon January 19, 2014

I decided to up my game and sign up for my first half marathon! After checking out several local races, I was set on running the RnR! The overall experience was great! The atmosphere was fun, tons of people, bands, signs and random strangers cheering everyone along!

The morning started early! We decided to avoid as much traffic as possible, so we took the Light Rail into town. We got to the train stop at about 6:15 in the morning and it was FREEZING and dark!  

Groups of people began to head to the Start Line. The corrals started to for just as the sun was coming up.  When the gun went off, it was go time!

The crowds came out to support over 24,000 runners! It was great reading all the signs, having random strangers cheer and shout supporting words throughout the whole course! 

Even though I was battling a cold the week leading up to the race, and on race day, I kept myself moving forward, enjoying the atmosphere, and really taking in this first experience.

13.1 miles later, I made it to the finish line! I was aiming for a 2:30 race, and beat it by 6 minutes! 

Not only did I complete the course, but I did it for a great cause. I was proud to run on the Children's Tumor Foundation NF Endurance Team, fundraising and helping to raise NF Awareness.

By far the coolest medal I have ever earned! Proud of myself for the accomplishment!

And like any race day, worn down and tired, I still had to have a beer to celebrate!

Now I have my medal proudly hanging in our home as a reminder of what I can accomplish if I set my mind to it!