2010 Patriots Run

I remember September 11, 2001 like it was yesterday. I woke up, turned on the news and just cried as I witnessed those tragic events. Even now when I see the footage from that day, I get teary.

This past weekend on Sept 11th, I was able to participate in the Patriots Run marathon in Olathe, Kansas. It was an amazing event that I am so glad I was able to be a part of. Before the start, which was at noon, someone announced that as the troops in Afghanistan were running their Patriots's Run, they were shot at. Wow! I can't even imagine! We are blessed with so many freedoms in this country.

There were many soldiers there to support and participate in this event, which was held at the Great Mall. The course was a 1 mile loop that went through the parking lot. It was awesome to be able to run with the soldiers, many in their fatigues and a 60 lb pack on their backs...made me teary every time I would see them.

I wasn't sure how I would like the loop, but it was actually fun because we were able to see and encourage each other all along the way. And this was the one and only time I will ever run next to Sam Felsenfeld in a race..(: By the way, he ran the marathon in 3:42 and then continued on with the ultra, running over 54 miles in 9:11 and won the ultra!

Kim and Doug, who were my hosts, were just awesome. Thanks again for letting me stay and hang with you guys. This was Kim's 31st marathon and Doug's 87th! You are both my marathoning heroes! 

I loved seeing the flags along the course..

This "Flag of Honor" has all the names of the victims of 9-11 printed on it..

It was raised for the entire race.

Kim and I before the race..

I met so many nice people at the Patriots Run this past weekend.. I like Kansas. 

I can't imagine a better way to spend 9-11-10 than running in a marathon honoring those who serve and protect our country! I am proud to be an American!

**Thank you Little Caesars for making this race possible!**