#46: White River Marathon Race Recap

Since menopause began over a year-and-a-half ago every endurance event has been a real struggle to show up. My most recent marathon was no different.  I tried to talk myself out of it, telling myself: “It’s too cold” or that “I don’t need to spend the money traveling."  But I just decide to get up, show up, and not give up.

Steve and I drove to Fort Smith Arkansas to stay the night only to wake up to snow and ice. The freeway we needed to get to Cotter for the marathon was iced with numerous wrecks. We decided to have breakfast, go see the sights and then reevaluate the roads. 

We were able to head out later that afternoon.  Drove a few hours, picked up some pizza and then to the cabin for the night.

The next morning, we woke up to 18 degrees. We dressed in many layers and headed to the White River Marathon start to pick up our packets. Thankfully the packet pick up was in a school gym which allowed us to stay warm until the start.  At 7 am we put on our gloves with hand warmers, hats and then we headed to start line.

After the national anthem we were off…
 It was a cold morning, but the sun was shining, and we were running along the beautiful white river.  I was feeling grateful!

At the first rest stop, I took off my top layer of clothing and got a drink before continuing on. I assumed the turnaround was at mile 13 for the marathon (big mistake), I ended running right past the turnaround only to realize I was running with only half marathoners.  I turned around and asked a young volunteer where the marathon turnaround was, and he had no clue.  I finally found it and realized I had run an extra mile and a half.  I then decided to slow down. I found some new friends, ate some chocolate and embraced the second half. 

As I crossed the finish line, I could see Steve waiting for me which is the BEST feeling.  I finished the 27.5 mile 4:13:21. We enjoyed the rest of our stay nestled in our cabin overlooking the White River.  We watched anglers fishing for trout and had a really nice time together. We vowed to return and someday kayak the river--of course, in a warmer time of the year.  We were so glad we didn’t decide to stay home as the trip was well worth it.

Next time you're thinking of the reasons you *should* bow out... show up instead! 

​Until Next Monday...