Gold Coast half marathon...

As you may be aware, last Sunday I finally ran the Gold Coast half marathon.  The lead up to this run was such that I wasn't sure if I would make it to the start line...well I did ! Phew !

My husband was running the Marathon so we flew up to the Gold Coast without the kids and spent a few days enjoying the warmer weather.  We spent a couple of hours at the run expo which was heaven for us, everything to do with running - new clothing, runners, accessories ( we love the accessories). A very well run and organised event and enjoyed lazing around at the gorgeous Sheraton - thank you Nicky for your recommendation. Stunning! 

Race kit collection

The race starts and nothing else matters

Bright and exciting apparel, so many new things

So many new colours

The night before feeling little nervous...warmer weather conditions than we are used to combined with my still not right foot tendon equalled a slightly anxious me.  My run started at 6 am which guaranteed I wouldn't be in the sun for too long, surprisingly the marathon started at 7.20 which meant they would be running for hours in the sun.  Poor Mike !!

My husband is a meticulous planner so he spent quite some time setting out his gear the night before, with a few laughs from me.  Preparation is so important, I thought I did quite well until I got to the start line only to realise that my Garmin gps watch was completely dead.  Panic ! I had no idea of what pace I was running, time etc.  

My gear laid out 

4.30am warm clothes to leave at the start line

It was a great course to run, along the Gold Coast Highway, people were lined up on the sidewalks outside their homes, cheering, high fiving and generally pushing everyone along.  It was quite warm when the sun surfaced, especially since us Melburnians had been training in chilly temperatures.  My foot held up ok, although without having any idea of my time and pace I really struggled to push myself to try and reach my goal of running in under 2 hrs.  I felt lost without my garmin (my constant training partner) but maintained an easy pace in order to not push it with my sore foot.  I crossed from start line to finish in 2hrs 5 mins.

I won't lie, I was quite disappointed and had a few tears.  On reflection though, I think I ran quite well considering I had no idea of pace or time and had the foot issue.  I guess it has made me more determined to try and beat my time next time.

The Sheraton had organised water taxis to transport the runners back and forth from the finish line as most of the roads had been blocked off, so no time to dwell on my performance too much, had to get back, shower and meet Mike at the 29 km mark with Powerade and lots of encouragement.  He ran passed still strong with a minute to spare on when he said he would meet me.  He was still feeling good, considering the warmth. I stood there and cheered on as people ran past, in awe of all these amazing runners, especially the women.  Everyone was so inspiring, its not an easy task to run a marathon - physically and mentally it is tough.  

marathon 29km mark

My hubby crossed the finish line in 3 hrs 43 mins.  He was very pleased with his result and I was very proud to cheer him on at the finish line.  The Gold Coast put on a great running festival.  It was so well organised and we will definitely go back to run again.  Its so inspiring seeing so many fit and healthy people getting out there and giving it their best.  I saw a 70 yr old Japanese man cross the finish line in 3 hrs.  Amazing !!

Cant get any closer (the finish line)

Mike after his marathon

After the marathon, recovery in the cool water

Water taxi back to the hotel 

Its always so nice at the end of a run when you get to have a celebration meal and drink.  We chose burgers and beer by the pool at the Sheraton... Debriefing, workshopping and picking apart our runs km by km.  Its lucky we both like to run as Im guessing it could get quite boring listening to these conversations if the interest isn't really there.  

Beautiful Sheraton

Back in Melbourne, cold weather, out for a run back on my beloved track, beanie, gloves - all rugged up.  Working through my new running goals and plans... Im glad Gold Coast is done and dusted, time to set my goals onto something else.  Thank you to everyone for all your encouragement, well wishes and positive thoughts for my run.  It is amazing how much it all helps and motivates you, spurs you on when you're legs are feeling tired.  Thank you !!