American Fork Canyon Half Marathon and kids run 2015

A couple of weeks ago I ran the American Fork Canyon Half Marathon. I ran it last year also, and was so impressed with the organization of the race and the course, I decided to do it again. The pace on my watch was off last year, so I thought I was running faster than I was. I didn't realize it until sort of late, so when I crossed the finish I was happy, but I knew I could have pushed myself a little harder. My goal this year was to beat my time last year. 

My sister-in-law Erin and I at the start of the race at Tibble Fork. Such a pretty morning!

Running in the canyon

I felt great running down the canyon, but as soon as we got out of the canyon, it was HOT! The high that day was 102, and even starting at 6am, it got hot really fast. Near the end, my feet felt like they were on fire! I hit a wall around 11 miles, but pushed through and felt great by the end. 

Success!

I finished in 1:51 and averaged an 8:30/mile. I was really excited about my time-- it is a new personal record and 6 minutes faster than my time last year! 

I love knowing my whole family is waiting for me at the finish line. It helps push me and I am grateful they will get up early to come cheer me on. 

This year I was able to train a little bit with these friends from my neighborhood, and it was so much fun being in the race together!

After the half, there was a kids 1/2 mile and 1 mile race. Jackson has been wanting to run a race, so I thought this was the perfect opportunity for him. He chose to do the 1-mile with his cousin Remi, and Bode decided to run also and did the 1/2 mile.

They were so cute all lined up! I wish we'd have taken more pictures of Bode running, but we only have video. 

Love this photo my mother-in-law took of Jackson and his cousin at the start of their race. Jackson is near the right.

I didn't really know what to expect, but both boys really gave it their all and had a great time. Neither complained about the heat and ran their little hearts out. Bode even beat a lot of the older kids! And I love that Jackson got to run with his cousin and friend Braylon. It was so much fun to watch and made me excited to continue cheering them on in as they grow older. Proud of these kids!