New York New York

I’m just returning home from a 4 days escapade to New York with Henry. He started running for marathons 2 years ago, with originally for goal to qualify to participate in the Boston marathon. He has been dedicated to a strict training regimen and has surpassed his highest ambition. At the same time his goals are shifting and he raises the bar for himself after each competition. This time, hoping to set a personal record at around 3:23, he surprised himself with an amazing time of 3:12. Of course, now a sub 3 hours doesn’t seem impossible and is probably on his mind for his next challenge…
We traveled with a wonderful group of friends, all runner athletes and enjoyed some delicious meals in trendy restaurants. I also had the pleasure to spend a day with most fascinating Brooke Parkhurst. She was just back from a long book signing tour across the country promoting her book “Belle in the Big Apple”. A native of Pensacola, she’s a celebrity back home. I was so impressed by all her accomplishments at such an early stage in her life, by her delightful personality and wits. She’s still in her twenties, and just engaged to a charming and successful chef (also from Pensacola!). This beautiful couple have a bright future ahead of them and it was such a treat to get to know them. And now, I am dying to go to the bookstore, get Brooke’s novel and spend some quality time reading it.

The night before the big race, we all gathered in Paul’s suite, the guys have this ritual to prepare for the big day. Everything has to be just right. Here, Brian helps with a knot in Paul’s back (as I once heard a massage lady say: “no pain no gain”).

Sunday morning, they left very early for the event, and I stayed up working on my computer. I was absorbed in photoshop, when a light caught my attention to my side, and I turned to see this beautiful sunrise out of our hotel window. It was a bit tricky to get this shot, as the window partially opened, but I really wanted to save the moment.

Marilson Gomes Dos Santos finished first at 2:08:43

Paula Radcliff won the women division with a time of 2:23:56

Henry, just a few yards from the finishing line. Looking good!

Brian Spencer, so excited to have spotted us in the bleachers. Brian ran with Henry, his pace is usually a lot faster, but he is still recovering from surgery 6 weeks ago, and it’s truly extraordinary he could perform so well.

Our trio back at the hotel after the marathon. Happy fellows. Paul Epstein of Running Wild, who also achieve his personal best record with a time of 2 hours and 47 minutes!!! (for a distance of 26.2 miles, unbelievable!) He finished 300 overall (there was a total of 40000 participants). We are so lucky in Pensacola to have such an inspirational runner.