Randy Woodward (MM15271) –State #41 is completed.
Very fun marathon. Terribly humid before the start at 5am. Turned terribly hot in the sunlight a couple of hourslater. Hearing reports of a few people that fell out from being overheated. Almost 30 thousand runners. Honolulu ranks as the 4th largest marathon in the U.S.
There was no time limit. Which was good as I struggled with chest pain issues 75% of the marathon and had to walk a large portion. Don’t be alarmed, I know the warning signs. Plummeting energy loss, vision fades, eyes feel like they’re crossing, horrible and miserable time trying to stay awake. Similar to the feeling right before you pass out. Have I ever mentioned how much I hate to walk?
Picked up an 12 ft extendable pole (mango picker) at the local Walmart. Modified it to use as a flag pole. Unfortunately I could not find an aluminum pole, so fiberglass pole was used. It added a couple more pounds than what I’m use to running with. With flag and fasteners in guessing about 8+ lbs. That plus intermittent heavy winds made for a lot of extra upper body workout, sore shoulders/biceps/triceps/forearms, not to mention extra energy burn.
Talked with many runners throughout the race. Many locals and many Japanese. Enjoyed the conversation with all. Also ran into a couple of my friends from the running community. Always a pleasure.
Although there was one homeless dude as we ran under a bridge. He was screaming profanities about the flag. I have to remind myself to be the bigger person and not ruin the marathon experience for those around me. And do you know how hard it is for me to be nice?
After the finish I sought shade under a Hawaiian Koa tree. As did many other finishers. Laid back and no sooner my head hit the shirt I used as a pillow, I was out. Took a 40 minute nap before regrouping and finding a bus to take me back to the Hale Koa hotel.
Quick shower and down to the restaurant in the lobby. Was starving! Catch of the day was Mahi Mahi. Had that, mashed potatoes and fresh vegetables. Directly after finishing I ordered a bacon cheeseburger and fries. That, along with two mai tai’s and my day was finally done.
Photo and Post Credit Randy Woodward
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Honolulu is a great marathon.
One time before the race I was sitting on a wall talking to this guy for 15 minutes.
He didn’t say much, but he smiled and shook his head.
Eventually, I realized he was from Japan and didn’t speak English!
Did they have hot Malasalas in the park? They taste great but feel like a cannon ball in your stomach.