On March 2 I ran the Publix Atlanta Half Marathon. This was my first half marathon in 2008 and I have run it off and on since then. Last year was my first time returning since pacing the race in 2020. This year, it was held in March (the normal month) and I had a much better experience than last year. The race also doubled as USATF Half Marathon Championship Race. I even volunteered as a Crew Chief for the Saturday 3 km Kid's Race. This is my account of the race weekend.

March 1 (Saturday)

Normally, I wouldn't serve as volunteer for Publix since I usually participate as an In-training Run Lead. Since I opted out of training this season, I decided to sign up to serve as a Crew Chief for the 3 km Kid's Race. I led a team of volunteers who organized the children by age for the 3 km race start line. The kids were so excited and COMPETITIVE. They were acting like they were being awarded a check at the finish. They were a joy to watch and cheer on for the race.

At the end of my shift, I pick up my race packet and took pictures with the props. I met up with a few friends who ran the 5k on Saturday before the kids race. Packet pickup was quick. We received a bib and a long sleeve shirt.

March 2 (Race Day)

Race day was perfect running weather. A little chilly, but not cold. The race started at 7:30 am on Northside Drive adjacent to the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. This year, I was in a better physical and mental state. The change in the route, didn't bother me like last year. Despite better conditioning, the race was a wild journey to finish line.

First, I wore a colorful outfit that started giving me issue from the start. My leggings kept slipping and thankfully around Mile 1, I found a discarded black shirt to tie around my waist. The shirt fixed that problem. I don't think I have ever been so grateful for discarded clothing in my life.

The second thing that happened, is that I tripped and fell at Mile 5. I don't know how it happened by I ended up in the Statue of Liberty pose (one arm extended). Thankfully, I wasn't hurt, I just scrapped my arm. I did the Taylor Swift and shook it off and kept going. City of ATL has bad roads and I think I just tripped over a tree root as we ran through Little Five Points.

Overall, it was a great race. The spectators kept us motivated when the hills were trying to beat us up. I finished in 2:38, which was 5 minutes faster than last year. I have been on a weight loss journey this year and I can tell the physical difference in my racing this year.

I am proud of my performance and look forward to running it next year. Happy Medal Monday!