Race Report: Inaugural Jazz Half-Marathon New Orleans

On Halloween morning, I ran my first half-marathon. This was the inaugural Jazz half-marathon (13.1mi). My sister, Erin, convinced me to run this as my first half.  I'm glad she did. When I started training in April, I could barely run a 5k (3.1mi). 


I really enjoyed the training. The long runs give me time to myself every week to think. And I've been amazed at how far/long I can run if I push myself. There have been times when the training felt like a burden and I don't enjoy getting up at 3:45AM 2-3 times a week to run. But I'm happy with the results. 

The morning of the race started off cold and drizzly. I was worried because I trained in the hot muggy New Orleans summer weather. Cold muscles behave differently than warm ones. But once I started running, I was fine. I took my jacket off with in the first 20mins.

Luckily, I met up with my friend Scott right as the race started. I really wanted to get a pre-race picture of us. But I couldn't figure out where to stash it for the race. 

The race started in the Warehouse district, then down St. Charles to Audubon Park and back to the Casino.  

I had a good race. It was some of the best running I've ever done. I has hoping for to complete in 2hrs 45mins. I finished in 2:45:33.8. 

Corey, Mel and the girls were at the finish line waiting for me

For a minute there, I did feel like I might pass out

But I didn't and I've already signed up for the Mardi Gras half-marathon. But this time, I am doing it for a cause. Please help me raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.