Azalea Half Marathon

 "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deed." Hebrews 10:24

Today was the 2nd Azalea Half Marathon, a race to "benefit the Nixa Azalea Festival Association whose efforts go to improve the Nixa community and the development of botanical gardens in the county."  What a fabulous race!  The weather was absolutely heaven sent...the best running conditions you could ask for.  The low of 47 was a great start to the day and, by race start it was into the 50's. It was certainly a day that Personal Records could be achieved.  There were 5 of us girls from TEAM 413 attending, with one doing her first half marathon.

Very chilly start to the day as we shed our coats and waited for the race to start. Everyone finished with a great time and injury free - definitely a reason to celebrate.

Nervous and anxious, Cindy and Laura are prayed up and trained up as they talk on the way to the starting line. It was Cindy's first half marathon and Laura had been her "coach". They did the Galloway run/walk method and were ready to have an awesome finish. Their goal was to complete the course in under 3 hours (which they did!). 

What a mix of terrain as we went from a flat course to rolling hills to trail and then back again. This out and back course was a treat with the alternating variations. The water stations were well stocked and so friendly. The one thing I love about out and back courses is the chance for runners to lift each other up. Friends with different paces get to see one another as they pass and cheer each other on when they need it most.

The mother of all hills was at mile 5 - and she was a big one. Once conquered, the remaining "rolling hills" were friendly and a welcome sight. Amazing how, when confronted by and overcoming a huge obstacle, the rest of "the race" appears easy. Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Love how He gives us hills to climb to show His strength and faithfulness.

Cindy (on right) after finishing her first half marathon. Something she thought she would never be able to do, with Laura (her coach) smiling on.

With praise on our lips and thankfulness in our hearts, we smiled and gave God the glory for this finish. What a blessing to have the air in our lungs and the strength in our legs to run "the good race".

The medals were amazingly large and this small town race was beyond expectation. It was an absolutely delightful experience for all of us and, God willing, one we will repeat next year.  God is good, His grace is undeserved and we are blessed. Woohoo! What a great day!!! This race is one we will mark down as a "must do".  

Heavenly Father, thank You for a most wonderful day. Thank You for your presence on the course and for keeping us all safe today. And thank You for the granting us such beautiful weather. In your precious name we pray Jesus, Amen.

Happy Running!!!

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