Only about 2% of runners will finish a marathon in less than 180 minutes (3 hours)

Six years ago, I couldn't even imagine running the distance (26.2 miles). But after working up to 3-4 mile jogs a few times a week, I set the incredible goal of running a half marathon.

After four months of intense training, well at that time (20-25 miles/wk), I ran the Houston half-marathon on January 16th, 2005. It was so grueling, I swore that was it. I'll never do another half, let alone a full.

Fortunately a running comrade pushed me to do a full marathon. Rededicated, I set a sub 4:00 hour goal for the full Houston marathon the following year. I trained harder than ever and crossed the finish in 3:59; I was hooked.

I've now run 21 marathons and this site is my journal to join that exclusive club of those who finish a marathon in under 180 minutes (3 hours).

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Saturday, July 16, 2011

Hunter Valley Quick Results

3:30:29. Overall, 20th out of 111 finishers. 9th in Division.

By far hillest course I've run. Two loops with mega hill at 3 and again at 16. Hilly 1-5 and 13-18. Rest of course flatter by still long inclines / declines similar to Houston's Allen Parkway.

Weather was very good. Not cold; I didn't wear gloves and tossed beanie at 6. Ran shirtless 2nd half. But cool and no sun, totally cloudy.

One of the fun-est courses I've done. With no chance of dehydrating, I could focused on challenge of hills. Scenic course compared to city runs.

Ran all the way through with no stops, pretty even 8:00 pace. Hit half in 1:43, slowed through hills from 13-18, then picked it up last 6. Lots last 5k trying to get under 3:30.

Overall great run, but wouldn't do it again. Hill at 3 & 6 about same as Harbor Bridge difficulty. Would hate to do in sun.

But really glad I did it today.

Tried to move up in place. Hit mile 8 in 20th place. A few past me and I past a few to hold 20th.

But at top of each hill, I could see the queue heavily stacked. 5th over all was 3:15:30 (15 mins head of me). So 15 runners stacked about 1 min apart to me. 3rd in my division was 3:23:30, so again I could see a chance to pass some.

But everyone held on.

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