I just got back from an amazing trip to Oahu, where my husband ran the Honolulu marathon. I had contemplated running or walking myself because I love the energy of marathons. You can practically see the bursting waves of hope, possibilities, doubt, excitement and acheivement floating in the air around the participants. That is what draws me to be involved, I think. Plus, as petty as it seems, I LOVE the finishers shirts!
Knowing that my body wasn’t quite ready to partake again in that distance just eight weeks after the Portland marathon was a bit of a let down for me. But I set the intention to really enjoy being on the other side of the gate for a change.
I’m so glad I did! Here are some of the events I would have missed.
The fabulous fireworks that went off for several minutes as nearly 30,000 people crossed the starting line.
The first runner in, Patrick Ivuti, from Kenya at a amazing time of 2:12:14
The first female runner in, Svetlana Zakharova, from Russia at an unbelievable time of 2:28:34.
The amazingly abled wheelchair division racers. What an inspiration!
My husband Mark, finishing strong at 3:43 as I watched from the sidelines.
Aloha spirit in action………one set of brides that I saw crossing the finish together. There were several newlyweds!
Friends Julie, Marie, Shelly, and Kaipo tackling the tremendous task of walking 26.2! Congratulations!
I’m not sure what these men were dressed as, but I do believe one had a lightsaber….I knew I heard some humming over the
“We are the champions” tune blaring out of the sound system! Whatever it is, it got them through the race smiling!
So, Mahalo to Honolulu, for your aloha spirit, your people, your marathon and your lessons. I fully enjoyed the opportunity to watch the unbreakable human spirit in all the participants of the marathon. I will be back, perhaps next time to pound out the miles with around 30,000 newfound friends.
Life Lesson? Sometimes in life you must be the active participant, and sometimes you must be the active observer. What matters is that you take action and be involved fully in this crazy sport we call life!
Go Mark! Looks like you had a great trip!
Wow what an amazing trip. My friend did this a few years ago. I cant believe the finishing time of 2:12 holy cow. I love your closing words. I have been observing all events for 3 years now as I was so sick. This year on the other hand I am feeling much better and am particiating in all that comes my way just incase life deals me another just observing hand. Ill take either hand as long as I can play in the sport of life like you said.