Robyn Monahan's Staging Area

No regrets ….I billieved 🙂
This has been an experience that will be forever carved in my heart. I was excited, worried, and scared when I decided to sign up for my second Marathon. This is my first time going to an event and participating alone.
I decided to embark on a whole food plant based lifestyle going into training for this marathon. I was anxious about being in someone else’s home the night before. As sleeping and eating on such a specific diet the day before such a big race is very challenging.
I tell you, I am so happy that I didn’t give in to my fears and comfort, as this ended up being an inspiring journey.
I ran the first half of the race at a much faster pace. However, I did struggle with the heat the next half and it really slowed my time down considerably. Never to the point that I would quit but enough that I knew I had better not push so hard. There would be other races.
I met an amazing person while running at around mile 18. We had been running at the same pace and she suggested we stick together. From that moment on we pushed each other to the limits and we completed. This was her first time running a marathon. It was fantastic meeting someone else with as much grit in their heart. Right up to the finish we motivated each other, and cheered in ecstatic happiness as we crossed the line.
I cannot describe the feelings that overwhelmed me the moment I finished, I was happy, proud, and inspired more than any other time in my life! I made it!
The race volunteers and spectators were among the finest people I have ever met. They were there to take care of us the moment we set foot on the pavement.
After this experience I am more determined than ever to lead a whole food plant based lifestyle and return in May for another chance at my pace goal.