Philadelphia Broad Street Run 2011

2nd year of running, 2nd Broad street run!  Last year, a friend convinced me to do it because it was so much fun and she was right!  This year, I convinced Lauren to do it also.  Yesterday, we headed to the expo to pick up our packets.  It was a beautiful day.  We headed to Lincoln Financial Field (Eagles Stadium).  They were doing "crowd control" and made us stand outside.  It was nice but cooold in the shade and windy!  Ugh!

As you can see, Lauren was overjoyed to be standing out in the cold.  Anyway, we headed in to walk around and get our stuff.  I met an online friend from Spark People named Tiffany.  She is too sweet!  We plan to meet up again soon for some healthy "fun" (you'll laugh at our idea of fun when I blog about it.  hehe)

 Also, I tried them again but still a no go for me.  The vibram 5 fingers didn't come home with me although they were super comfy this time.  Last time, the store I went to only had unisex which basically means "built for men's feet" so these were a bit more narrow and better fitting for me, but still not enough to make me buy them!

This morning, Lauren and Joe carpooled with Rob and I to make the trip easier.  Rob took us right to the start line so we wouldn't have to ride the train and so he could take some before pictures.  Rob likes to be a stalker and take random photos so that should explain any where we're not looking!

It was crazy packed at the start line as usual. 30,000 runners (and the race sold out in 4 days!).  Off we go!

 It took us (according to the Garmin) about 1:48!  We wanted to do under 2 hours so that makes us very happy!  Maybe next year I can cut off more time again :)

We caught up again with Tiffany.  She kicked my butt with her 1:26!  Wow way to go Tiff!

They had free samples for Rita's water ice at the finish line too.  Yum!

Overall, I think the race went well!  I was doing ok for the first 5 miles but then I started to drag a bit.  By mile 7, I was depending pretty heavily on Lauren's motivation.  She was the best support to have, never giving up!  One great perk to a running buddy!  Once we hit mile 9 it was pretty steady sailing from there (far from easy, took every mental effort to not walk!).  Anyway, it was a great run and a great day!  Can't wait for next year!