Back in September 2019 I started an ambitious training period. For the past few years I’ve been focusing on triathlons, but I truly missed endurance running. I wanted to run another marathon, and hell, while I was at it, why not an Ultra marathon?

Marathon #7 was back to the beginning with the National Breast Cancer Marathon in Jacksonville Beach FL. Back in 2011 this was my first full marathon, and this year’s experience was so great that it certainly won’t be my last. I have been talking about this race for years here in Florence with my running friends, and finally several of them committed to joining me.

I will admit that I was worried that the race would not live up to my buildup in the eyes of my friends. I knew it would be a great experience, but would they think so? The Donna is an emotional experience that doesn’t disappoint. This race is about overcoming adversity and fear. It’s about love and life. And PINK. More pink than should be legal. When it’s all over, you’ll even be sweating pink.

I trained for the Booby Trap challenge, which included a 5K on Saturday 2/8 and a marathon on Sunday 2/9. I wasn’t looking to break land speed records-I just wanted a strong effort both days.

I had 2 really good days of racing. I had prepared for all weather contingencies EXCEPT…sun. Every other time I’ve run this race it’s been cold and overcast. Darn if that sun didn’t shine on me for the entire course. By the end of the marathon I was sporting a lovely case of sunburn as well as windburn. Who knew that could happen by the Atlantic Beach in Florida?

It was a small price to pay for a great experience. This is a race where crowd support is second to none. The first 13.1 miles were a huge street party that offered limitless beverages and food galore. Shit got real at mile 13.2, but a local Catholic Church offered “run thru” communion for anyone who needed spiritual intervention.

My motto is always “Finish Strong.” I think I nailed it with this one.

Next up-Badwater Cape Fear.