Today might be my favorite day ever. Fleet Feet Sports Soldier Field 10 Mile was my first official race post injury. The injury that kept me from running and racing for over a year. One of the worst things that’s ever happened to me (yeah, I’ve been pretty lucky – my life is good). Not only did I get to race today, but my fiance, Tony ran it with me. We ran the entire race together and held hands crossing the finish line. This might not be a big deal for most people, but I never thought I would find anyone like Tony. I never thought I would get married, or that anyone could love me for who I am (the crazy runner girl) and I definitely never thought I would find someone who is also a little crazy and loves me enough to run races with me.
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.
About Sara
Congrats, Sara! What a great way to comeback to racing. I love those goals–I need some like that for my race next Saturday. Enjoy the rest of your weekend!
Melissa recently posted..Life and Stuff
Thanks, Melissa! Running for fun has changed everything for me. I’m just so happy to be out there. Why put so much pressure on ourselves for no reason? Have fun on Saturday! 🙂
congrats sara! exciting that you’re back on the injury free horse! love this race and was really sad to miss it this year. maybe i’ll see you there next year 😉
Britt @ Chicago Runner Girl recently posted..Twilight Tempos
Thank you, Britt! It was such a fun race and fingers crossed for no more injuries for a really long time! Hope to see you next year!
Congrats on your first race back!!! That’s a pretty great time, even if it’s not a PR 🙂
Maggie recently posted..Memorial Day Weekend in Georgia
Thanks, Maggie! I loved running this race just for fun and not for time. I think all runners should do that from time to time.
Great job. I really enjoyed this race also!
Deanna recently posted..Trail Run Extreme Race Recap
Thanks for the great recap Sara! We’re glad you had a great day, and wonderful re-entry into the racing world. Keep up the good work, and stay healthy. See you soon!