My 21st Birthday Sure I'm running nine-minute miles, but I'm doing it with a smile on my face in "The Greatest Show On Earth". By Mile Three, I've found my stride and am looking forward to a trip down Ali'i Drive. Ali'i is one of the best parts of the day. There is a breeze blowing and shade from beautiful trees. I am close to the ocean, and relax listening to the sound of the waves breaking on the rocks. Around Mile Five, Jo King and two mates come alongside. I decide to see if I can run with them. The pace is tough, but I do my best to keep up. I listen to everyone's breathing and decide that I am OK, I am not going to explode. The Aussie Train rolls on and we start to reel in people. This is more like it. Around Mile Ten, the pace starts to hurt and I begin an inner mantra, "I can run one more mile at this pace." An image of crossing the line with Jo sustains me. When we are in direct sunlight, I can feel wind rising from the road. Waves of heat tickle my ears. It is uncomfortable, but I feel a tremendous sense of gratitude towards Jo for saving my run. I can't let her down by folding. I can run one more mile at this pace. The Energy Lab is very hot, but I enjoy it. We are getting close to the last turnaround of the day. Leaving the Energy Lab, Jo has some trouble. It is a huge disappointment for me to have to leave her. Thanking Jo, I push on and pick up another female pro (yes, I like running with women - something about their energy). I run with Gina Kehr from Mile 20 to 22. By Mile 24, sub-10 is slipping away and I decide to enjoy the rest of the run (bye Gina!). Arriving at the base of Palani Hill, I turn left and my hamstrings say, "Hello!" Just like last year, it is the final sting in the marathon's tail. I zero-in on Hot Corner and can actually hear what's going on for a change. "Here he comes. Give it up people! Udo Boeltz from Germany!" What? Udo goes by me and I decide that there is no way a roadie is going to take me at the finish. For the second time, I lock on to my lead-out man and bide my time. With 500 meters to go, I make my move. I am sure Udo didn't care at all and he made my life easier. I run under my favorite tree and ease into the chute. Mike's voice lifts me up and I am hammering to the line. I cross the line thinking about a friend I've never met and smile at a job well done. Next Page 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 Back to Race Reports

Pure joy Five down and a lifetime to go!