Mission Completion

The dark clouds split apart for a brief instance and the sun beamed through. It was one of the most brilliant sights. The race had already begun but it was at that point I could feel the love of all those who had passed on before. The sun was a symbol of their support to those who were running in their behalf. Two million pounds had been raised in their names to conquer that which took their lives.

As I continued to run, the sun continued to shine. I couldn't help but think of the woman whose name I wore on my back. Grandma B; a smile formed across my lips. I laughed at what she would be thinking right now. "Get them Lindsay; don't let those college girls beat you; you can do it; mind over body; they say it isn't about winning, but go try any way!" Whenever I would feel the presence of someone coming up on me, I would hear her once again, "Don't let them get you, speed up!" I began to laugh at myself. Were these thoughts my own? Maybe to some degree, but it was my Grandma B 100%. She was a woman full of drive, full of competition. Her memory drove me forward, faster, faster. I couldn't help myself.

As I came upon 4 km I spotted my support group. Harvey, with all my kids. "Go, Mom! You can do it!" The adrenal burst within me. Knowing my children were watching me and my drive to make Harvey proud made me run even faster. I see the finish line and I hear the announcer say, "4th place, 5th place, come on ladies, you're doing great!." '4th place, 5th place, could I really be that close to the front of the line?'

That is when I see the time board. I doubted what I was seeing. I ran faster! I had never felt this way, I was exhausted but never felt so full of energy! I burst through the finish line. My personal best is nothing to some people, but everything to me. 23:18, and there is no doubt I did my best, I gave it my all, and I thought of my Grandma the whole time. No it isn't about winning, but like Grandma would have given it her all out of the spirit of competition, so did I!

Thanks to all of you who supported me. Your sponsorship made it all worth it. I was able to raise over 200.00 GBP; which is nearly $400. Thank you so much. Oh, and to those of you who read my previous post, Savannah was able to ride! What a great cause, what a great day, what a great experience!