I arrived at the race site in Olathe, KS about 11am. I picked up my packet, got myself all ready, and then watched the opening ceremony activities, which were really nice.
All laced up and ready to go. Feet fail me not!
The Patriot Guard came out, the entire race route was decorated with large flags, the Salvation Army gave a lovely speech, and people really took the time to reflect, remember, and honor.
Some of the flags on the course - they were everywhere and really beautiful.
Motorcycles from the Patriot Guard and Johnson County Sheriff's Office.
The Kansas National Guard was on-hand to present the flags.
I came dressed for the event in my INKnBURN Samantha Tech Tee and Liberty Capris.
The race got off to a great start at noon. There were several options for distances - the half or full marathon, a 5k, team running, casual walker, or the ultra. The course was open from noon until 9:11pm, so for the ultra you could run the entire time if you wanted. (The race record was set in 2009 at 63 miles!)
The race is run at Mid-America Nazarene University, and is on a one mile loop. This creates a fun atmosphere as you are never running alone, there is always someone around. I ran my first loop at 9:40 and felt great. After that I started to slow it down just a bit, but kept a good pace for the first 6 miles.
I slowed down to take a picture of this guy who was doing the team ultra. Each member of the team would walk the mile loop in full gear. They kept this up for the entire 9 hours, 11 minutes.
Here I am crossing the mats. Not sure what number this was.
This race was fantastic! I finished around 2:31. Not my best time, but around mile 8 I just let the time go, and instead focused on taking the day in, living in the moment, and really thinking about why I was running, and honoring it all. Even with that, I was able to snag a second place age group award, so that was a fun bonus.
Finishers and second place medal!
This race is so well done! The organizers do a wonderful job, and everything goes off without a hitch. The food is good and the volunteers great. This was my second time running this race, and I would do it again. I can't say enough good things about this small, yet mighty race. If you ever get a chance to run it, do it! Visit the race at their website http://www.patriotsrun.org/ or find them on facebook for more info.
Another bonus for the day - meeting another INKnBURN fan - Stephanie.
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