As we started to find our rhythm and settle into the 26.2-mile journey to the finish, I made sure I had my things in order for a smooth ride. The weather was great for my husband. It was about 50 degrees and overcast, with light rain here and there. Honestly, not too bad for me either. We’ve trained in much worse.
Going through the different towns, it was neat to see all the people who came out to cheer the runners on. Their cheers were so loud at times that it was overwhelming, especially when we went through the Wellesley College scream tunnel. Jamie had tried to explain this to me, but seeing and HEARING it in person was incredible. The students were lined up for a long way and were screaming and cheering as loud as they could. It was incredible and a great boost along the course. We both agreed that was a race highlight.
I was starting to be fatigued by this point, but knew I had to do my part and carry on. Encouraging Jamie and mentally helping him, as it was of course getting increasingly difficult for him. The hills were no joke. Remember, he’s pushing this big bike with me in it. Most runners are just getting themselves up those hills, which is also incredibly difficult! My husband gets a lot of encouragement from fellow runners along the way.
Speaking of encouragement, I’m not just encouraging my husband along the way, but I take the time to encourage other runners as well. We’ve had several come up to us either during or after races saying they love running next to us because of the level of crowd involvement that the duo bike draws in. They love being a part of that, too. It’s easy to understand why, because it is just an overwhelming sense of human love and kindness. Something we all need.
Around mile 23, the skies opened, and it started pouring. It was both miserable and exhilarating at the same time! About that time, I had started to look for our sons who were not too far from the finish. Somehow, with all the rain, and a sea of people, we looked over at the same time and made eye contact with our sons, who were cheering loudly. That was an incredibly moving moment for both of us. It was a split second, but it felt like slow motion.
After that, it was the final push to the finish as we rounded the final turn. The crowds were thick, the cheering overwhelming! It was still pouring, which really did make for an exciting finish. We crossed the finish line in 3 hours and 23 minutes! Our goal was 3:15, but we were both pleased with our result. I was SO proud of US. Months and months of training in the freezing cold Indiana temperatures. I can no longer say I’m just a fair-weather rider. I’m well-seasoned in all types of weather at this point!
When participating in a marathon, there is always a racecourse story, and a post-race story. Some are good, and some not so good. Of course, you always want it to be that wonderful, happy celebratory moment. Unfortunately, that is not the ending I had. What happened next was a post-race first for me.
Until next time …
Amy Shinneman is a former National Ambassador for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, disability blogger, wife, and mom of two boys. You can find her blog at humblycourageous.com and reach her on Instagram @ashinneman.