Jason decided to step up his training the last couple of months...he was determined to qualify for Boston. He has been running marathons for 3 years now and was tired of being so close, yet so far away. So he started running every day (except Sunday) and began to add a lot more miles to his training.So...I've been to a few marathons in my life. I'll never forget the first one, Ogden. It blew me away. I had a really hard time fighting back the emotions and tears that hit me as I watched people cross that finish line. People of all shapes and sizes, struggling, perservering. Watching the few people that gave every last bit that they had and falling short 300 yards. It's amazing. But, over the last couple of years, I have become somewhat immune...or maybe just better able to suppress the tears, I'm not sure which one.
I realized Saturday morning, as I was running around getting the 4 girls ready to go, that this could be the big day for Jason. But in the hustle and the bustle I didn't give it much thought. So I wasn't prepared for what happened when I got his "half text time." I was pulling out of the driveway when my phone trilled and I looked down to see his time. He was doing sooo well! I instantly teared up. So we stopped the van and said a prayer for our daddy and then began the treck to meet him. At mile 18 he looked so good (this is where the top picture was taken). He blew the girls kisses and flew on by.
We saw him again at mile 24, and he was tired and wearing down, but still smiling and his time still looked good. So we walked to finish line and waited. This had to be the longest wait ever! I just kept watching the clock and saying, "Come on Jason, come on." When he finally made it down the home-stretch I yelled my guts out for him to sprint. But he had nothing left to give. He looked at me and smiled and simply kept going...
We found him after the race. I was ecstatic about his time. 3:00:38. I cried for him. It's amazing to see people reach their goals... Way to go Jason. You deserve it. Thanks for letting us be there to share your triumphant moment.
9 comments:
Congrats to Jason. You have such a way of putting the emotions of the marathon into words. What an exciting day!
That is Awesome! Way to go Jason! It is extremely fulfilling to set a goal and reach it. And this is a BIG ONE! So are you planning on running in Boston or was it mostly about qualifying? My sil ran it a few yrs ago. It sounds amazing! And expensive. Best wishes for all of your endeavors.
Jeri Dawn, way to be supportive! I know you helped him reach this goal. I loved reading about your emotional investment in his outcome. I hope you enjoy your getaway together.
Man do I have the chills. Way to do it Jason. We are hoping you guys are going to Boston, because we will meet you there. Love to all of you!
How wonderful. I love you all. It takes a lot out of the person training and their other half to prepare for such a big event. You two are so great.
Congrats to Jason! That's amazing, and so inspiring!
I went to my first marathon last year. I cried at the finish line too. Just to see the people as they completed their goals! Awesome!!
It is still so amazing to me. I am glad to hear you yelled your guts out because I couldn't believe how excited I got for him when I saw the time and saw him. I was yelling so loud I was pretty sure he thought what a nutt. Way to go Jason!!
I just noticed this post! We are so proud of you Jason! You are an awesome motivation and example for Travis! Have fun in Hawaii!
YAY..you really did great jason. i knew you would do great!
Congratulations Jason! That is awesome!
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