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| In the last 5K, I pass five pro men and that gives me a little extra energy. I am right on edge, physically and emotionally. The new run course, has us turn away from the finish line and run the last 2K along the lakeshore. Lori is about a mile up on me and I learn a lesson about racing (she didn't run 6:30s the whole way, just when she was near me). Pack that one away for next year! The crowd support is awesome, people are screaming, clapping, waving... total exhilaration. As usual, all I can hear is noise. Some friends call out to me and I answer. Later, they would tell me that I made no sense at all. My mind registers no words or specific sounds. My heart is filled with peace and joy. Once again, I have raced to my potential. The race has one last gift to give, and that is a sub-9:25 time. Vineman wasn't a fluke, I belong. Someone walks up to me and tells me that I was 2nd amateur and 22nd overall. Exactly how I visualized ending my amateur career. gordo PS - At the awards dinner, they gave these really nice Subaru cycling jackets to the top ten men and women. Apparently, they don't sell these jackets and the only way to get one is to win it. I think I would look great in one of those jackets... |  Five months of preparation come right!
Until next year... |
