Security

Mikey Grocery

Pasta party

Coconut water

Pre-run, we were not yet awake

Mural on the wall

Beach in Negril

Crowd post race

Finish area

Entertainment along the race route

Walking home

Taking our time

Post run

Medals

Torches as we started the race lit the way

Entertainment along the way.

Erin

Pasta party

Finish line

Nearing finish line

Medal for half marathon

Post race

It was one of those experiences that is hard to put into words. But I am a writer, I gotta get over it and try to describe. Other than some necessary information, I will just paint some images and scenes for you. For most of the run, I was trying to capture so much of this in my head and preserve it in words. First, though, a bit about the race.

It took place in Negril. We are staying a cute little cottage just off the main strip. Devon, Mikey, Dolores, Tallman run the guest house and they all welcomed us as we arrived on Friday. We attended the pasta party night with hundreds of other runners from across the world. The whole event, which started in 1995, was extremely professional. We got our race kits with no hassle and enjoyed delicious pasta and assorted carbs.

The next morning, we were up at 4:00. After a quick snack and the requisite cup of coffee, we made our way to the starting line. Of course, reggae music was blasting. And promptly at 5:15am, the starting gun sounded to the sounds of Bob Marley’s “Jammin.”

The four of us running decided to go at our own paces. Here are some images: cars with soundsystems mounted on the roof, music blaring; rastas dancing and cheering along the side of the road; people in uniforms walking to work; moon and starlight giving way to a sunrise; a small strip of mauve clouds before the sun broke; the aroma of marijuana wafting in and out; runners of all colours, shapes and sizes; marathoners leading the way so lean and efficient; constant reggae music; the beach and ocean keeping us company the entire way; a cool breeze then blazing sun; coconuts and oranges; misting tents; cool sponges; cheering crowds and happy faces; medals; sweat; pain; endurance; Bob’s Mile (the last mile was called this and quotes from Bob Marley were on billboards by the side of the road); excited dogs running with us; birds in formation overhead; swaying palm trees; hugs from friends and pride.

Brianna and I finished the race together, Elisa was right ahead of us and Erin accomplished her first 10K. Wendy and Kelly cheered us on and got up with us at 4am. And Wendy took many of these amazing pictures. Overall, it was an incredible day and I am proud of all of us, as well as grateful for a healthy and strong body.