I bounced out of bed at 5:00AM! Tony might have been a little whiny about the early wake up call and cold weather, but I think my excitement rubbed off on him.

We were running a little late so I missed the big #runchi photo, but I was able to find a few of the other Cheer Team members to get a small group shot.

I had two main goals for this race; have fun and cross the finish line with Tony. Both goals were accomplished!

We finished the race in 1:23:39 with an average pace of 8:22. Definitely NOT my fasted time, but the most fun I’ve had racing!

At the end of the race you run into Soldier Field and cross the finish line on the 50 yard line. Tony and I ran through holding hands with smiles on our faces. The best part was getting our finisher medals from the active duty Sailors from the Great Lakes Naval Station. It was an honor receiving the medal from them. Fleet Feet Sports sure knows how to put on a great event! I’m extremely impressed by the Solider Field 10 mile race! So well organized, my favorite medal I’ve ever received, the staff and volunteers were so helpful & the extra goodie bag at the end was such a nice surprise! Great job, Fleet Feet! This was my first time running this race, but definitely won’t be my last.

On Monday, April 22 I will be at Fleet Feet Sports Lincoln Square store running for Boston.

Runners for Boston is a fun run to bring the community of runners together and show support for those affected in Boston. Fleet Feet is encouraging everyone to wear past/present Boston Marathon gear, the iconic Boston Marathon blue & yellow, or any race shirt.

On June 15 the Chicago Runner Bloggers are putting on a 5k to show the power and resiliency of the running community.

If you don’t live in Chicago check with your local running store. There will be runs to support Boston all around the country.