This morning I woke up for the Dublin Half Marathon a bit scared and doubtful of my capability to finish the race. Since beginning my training, I have completed a 3 month (50 hours a week) internship, moved across the world, and have started at a new university. I didn't complete the full amount of training I needed either, but with the support of my amazing boyfriend, two of the sweetest roommates, the beautiful scenery in Phoenix Park, and a really cool guy I met in mile 9, I ran a great 13.1 miles! As I ran, I took in the landscape, the people, and the experience. There were 8500 people registered for the race! The first turn where I could see just how many people were running along with me took my breath away. It gives me so much adrenaline being with so many who share in the same passion and are looking towards the same goal!
In mile 9, I met an astrophysicist from Dublin who recognized my Purdue shirt and let me know that he had been to the university before. He talked about his visit that he took their with fellow researchers and how highly they thought of the University. We chatted for a couple miles about each others lives, and after we thanked each other for the motivation and the company, we separated and I finished the last mile (all up hill!) with all the strength I had. Crossing the finish line was a great feeling! How many people can say they have ran a half marathon in another country? I'm very fortunate to have completed such a feat and in such an amazing place!
I rewarded myself with fish and chips and a Guinness at one of the oldest pubs in Ireland, The Bleeding Horse, that was said to have been founded in 1710 but does have some evidence that it existed even in 1649! It was a neat place where we got to enjoy dinner and an intense rugby match. It was an eventful day, and I could end it feeling more accomplished!