Marathon Man

The day before the race the course map was posted at the Portland Hilton.

He picked up his bib and timing chip, bought a Portland Marathon cap and we were off to meet Maryanne & her sister

Christy for an evening in the city.

14 minutes after the gun, Al reaches the start line.

The timing chip on his shoe started at that point.

The weather was warm but rainy, the 7,000+ participants

were pumped and ready to go, the bands were playing and

there was still energy enough to wave.

Mile 21 was up hill and under the Freemont Bridge.

By this time, Al was drenched to the bone and getting

pretty tired. I met him at this point for a hug and a kiss

and I'm sure that's what got him to the end. The balloon bouquets

signaled upcoming bathrooms.

Big Al surprised himself and finished faster than his goal of 7.5 hours.

His official time was 6.36. Yea Al!

As he crossed the finish line I handed him his drug of choice; a white chocolate, extra pump, 170 degree mocha from Starbucks which he downed in one swallow. The solar blanket allowed his sweaty body to cool down slowly. He was soaking wet from the 6.5 hours of rain. He was also given a baby fir tree tp plant as a reminder of his awesome accomplishment.

The gold medal winner...tired but so happy with himself. He faithfully trained for 5 months and exceeded his goal by 1.5 hours. Way to go Big Al! We are all so proud of you!