Race for the Roses Half Marathon

This past Sunday morning I ran my first half marathon through downtown Portland.  Nearly 4,000 runners participated between the half and 5k.  I ran with my friend Drew.  We enjoyed the course which brought us over the Steele Bridge twice, weaving through downtown, and along the Willamette River.  The sunrise was stunning and led into a brilliant day.  

As an ode to Cup'n'Cone back in good ole White Bear Lake, I wore their shirt before going shirtless halfway through.  My final time was 1 hour and 42 minutes, which means I ran under an eight minute mile.  I placed 285 out of 2,131 half marathon finishers.  My only goal was to finish in under 2 hours.  

I am very pleased to say that I am thrilled with the results.  In fact, almost surprised.  

A few not so great photos are up, taken by the official race photographers.  Kirk was nice enough to snap a few goodies on the bridge with .1 left in the race, so when I get them I'll put them up too.

Bring on the races.