NY Marathon 2006
The first time was a great experiment and really empowering, and then we didn't run another for 3 years, although we kept on running shorter races. In 2005 we ran chicago, and that was a great experience, because it was Chicago and there was beer en route, and it was flat, and we loved it. And we signed up for next year because our friends are running, and because Lance Armstrong is running.
The thing is, that 18 mile mark really sucks. I love half-marathons. Love. Love Love. Half-marathons. I get a great sense of accomplishment, and really tired and really hungry and that wonderful feeling of collapse and salty face ( when you run in the summer and your sweat evaporates and leaves salt marks all over your cheeks). I really don't like the 17-18 mile marks on marathons. The last 8-9 miles is absolutely excruciating. The little gel packs help, but I really don't ever feel good at mile 25, and I think I even cried a little at the end of Chicago, when I realized there was still .2 left, at the 26 mile mark.
My goal the first year was to finish, and my goal the second time was to finish faster than the first time. My goal for the third time is to finish faster than the second time, and to go to the after-party and dance a lot.