Reflections on the Boston Marathon 2012

cross-posted at: http://www.melrosebootcamp.com

The Boston Marathon was five weeks ago. I thought I’d be writing about the experience with my usual enthusiastic, what a wonderful day, I felt great! Well this time, my 12th time?  Not so much.

I’ve been asked again and again, how was it Joy? But this year the question has been asked with more of a cringe on the asker’s face than the usual excitement in their eyes. My honest answer? Well the physical experience of it all? It was pretty awful. However, would I do it again knowing what I know now? Yes I would.

I have no regrets about taking on the challenge in the heat and under the strong advisement of the BAA to defer until next year. I had raised money for Dana-Farber, done the training and was committed. This year’s event tested my limits more than any other physical challenge in my life. I admire all the runners for their courage and mental and physical strength. For me it took more than ever before. Many of us ran in honor or in memory of people we love.  It is amazing how deep you can dig when presented with motivation such as that. Gratitude still prevails for I know how fortunate I am to be able to set such a lofty physical goal for myself and achieve it, and to do so in honor of those who can’t. 

Congratulations to all of the runners. This is one we’ll never forget.