Heart of America Marathon 2014

Today was the 55th annual Heart of America Marathon in Columbia, MO. Described as one of the hardest marathons...ever!  The elevation chart makes a first time marathoner shudder and a veteran

A photo from the race.  Free race pics are a bonus!

runner rejoice at the prospect of overcoming the hills. Today's event didn't disappoint.  For the first time in history, the 6am start was delayed until 7am due to lightning. The rain and clouds turned out to be a blessing as the temps stayed much lower than expected much to the delight of everyone running.

The course is full of rolling hills and scenery as it winds through the back roads of Columbia and down by the Missouri river making for spectacular views of the water close up.  Got us ready for the mother of all hills at mile 12.  The majority of runners decided that walking this hill was just as fast as running it, and they were right. This thing was tough.  Many more hills were to follow with another big one around mile 20.  Definitely not a race for the faint of heart or anyone with a dislike of hills or difficulty.  The course was challenging but that's the allure of it.  Conquering the Heart of America Marathon gives you bragging rights and a sense of accomplishment. The volunteers and spectators were full of energy and encouragement.  For a course that didn't allow for people to sit and watch (too close to the road),they followed us in their cars yelling, ringing cowbells and spurring us on.  How they added to the overall enjoyment of the race. By far, some of the friendliest and outgoing volunteers and supporters anywhere!

Finished the race in Downtown Columbia amid the cheers of families and others gathered to see their loved ones finish.  Postrace treats included ice baths, cookies, soda, water and pizza.  A shuttle was provided to drive the runners back to their cars or hotels.  The official cutoff time for the race was 6 hours, however I was pleased that they didn't pull the runners off the course if they were within a mile or two of the finish line. They simply began breaking things down leaving the timing mat, medals and some refreshments.  My friend finished (her first marathon) in 6:23 to the joy of her family waiting for her at the finish.   God was good today. It takes a lot of guts, mental strength and perseverance to push for that long and I was pleased to see her claim her reward.  She was tired, sore and chafed but finished with a smile on her face and a renewed sense of what running is all about... doing things you thought you could never do and sharing the experience with others doing the same. These are the friendships forged by adversity and a shared ambition to live life to the fullest - even if that means conquering 26.2 miles of the meanest hills in Missouri.

Prerace with Jim McDermott, Alaina Jacobson, me, Doug Jacobson
Sandra Ortiz and Lynn Jacobson
Alaina,Lynn and Sandra completed their first marathons today at HOA.

Sandra with the finish line in sight.  As the course was shut down after 6 hours, the runners were responsible for yielding to traffic as they made their way to the finish line.  Philippians 4:13 was proven today as she relied on Christ for the strength she didn't have.  When you've done all you can, He will do all you can't.

Packet pickup - little did Sandra know what the next day would hold.

God blessed us today with air in our lungs, strength in our legs and joy in our hearts. We will forever be grateful to Him for the blessings He has given and run each race to share His love with others and glorify His name.  That is TEAM 413 and this is what we do.  He is worthy to be praised!!!!  www.team413.org

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