7/30/06 San Francisco Marathon

Yes, it was even worse than it looks.

Four minutes shy of a PR on a course that was way more uphilly than anticipated, I finished in 3:24:04. Fifth in my division and the sixteenth overall female.

Had to work both Friday and Monday (race was Sunday) so it was a quick trip. No sightseeing (unless you count the Marathon Expo - which was right downstairs from my hotel room).

During all the uphills, I kept wishing for a downhill. Then I finally hit the Haight Ashbury district which included a 200 yard crazy steep painful downhill, as if to say "Be careful what you wish for..." So I spent the rest of the race wishing for some nice flat sections. My wish didn't come true until the last mile. Note to self: make wish in the FIRST mile of the race.


The Golden Gate Bridge.


Coach John and I at the Expo, getting goofy on free Goo samples!


Fun with feet.


Milk & Muffin: Breakfast of well, 16th placers.


Warming up at 5:00am. Race start is 5:35am. Temperature about 55 F.


No smile, I was saving my strength for the race.


Sure wish I had known there were wings coming out of my head, I could've used those.


Running the Golden Gate Bridge.


Haight Street, should be renamed "I Hate Uphill" Street...


Lots of uphills and trivia signs. John ran the last 2 miles with me.


Uphill towards the finish.


The Port, on the starboard side.


Highlight of the race? Spitting on a Barry Bonds plaque at AT&T Park.


Marina by the ball park.


Finish line.


Runners' high.


These kids sure could use a nap.


Men in uniform handing out medals.


Looking stronger than I actually felt.


With Coach/Runner John.


Me, The Marthon Angel (aka: Lorenzo), and the Bay Bridge.

Thanks to Lorenzo for picking up all the wet & sweaty things I threw at him during the race, and for the great photos! And to John for understanding when I told him to "SHUSH!" during the last two miles. Hopefully, with their help, I can get that coveted PR in Detroit on 10/29/06!

Click here for San Francisco Marathon Results