13.1 for Africa

Today was the last "training race" before the Chicago Marathon. The Batavia Half Madness 13.1 was held today. My intent was to not go out to hard, but not have an easier race like the CDC a few weeks back. I started off at a torrid pace (at least for me). On a day in which the temperature was getting hotter, with the Lord's Help, I managed a new personal Best. I shaved about 10 seconds of my previous best 1/2 marathon time. I finished in 1:37:26 minutes, at a 7:26 pace (64 overall, 61 amongst males, and 12th in the 35-39 age group)

For a day in which I wanted to push myself, I ended up working a lot harder than I anticipated. It was great to see the family cheering on, out on the course. Thanks guys! that REALLY helped.

I'm thankful today, for being fit enough to compete. I'm thankful for the Lord's blessing to allow me a PR today. I'm thankful for a race close enough to home that I was able to still make 11am Mass with my family. I'm thankful for all the support from family and friends as I continue to train for the 2008 Chicago Marathon. And I thrilled for the support from a couple of runners and the spectators cheering me on in my Team World Vision gear. Its awesome that people recognize World Vision and the help they provide around the world.

Peace to you all. And thanks for your support for me and for Team World Vision.