I have always had someone I dedicated my marathon to. Last year I ran with a short phrase for Juan and his name on the back of my shirt, his support was key to get me back to help after the horrible ulcer, the non-training, the labral tear, and all the other crap. He’s been my stone since I met him and I always count with his support

This year, it was VERY CLEAR, very early on who’d get the dedication. I had struggled for a few months to get motivated to run. My training partners had abandoned me (one moved to Brooklyn, the other one had a baby) and though we figured out the long runs eventually this year by August, and did them all together, in July/August I was a bit blah about training. Enter Daphne: one day I run into her on the bridle path, all chirpy as usual. She’s always happy!! I’ve known her for a few years now (3?) and I had run into her in the park and races! But since that morning, I attached myself to her like a fuel belt. Seriously. Kettia and Maureen started joining and we’d meet every Tuesday for speedwork and usually Wednesday and/or Thursday for whatever. Even Yassos 800s. And Daphne would get it all organized and be the pacer. She really did pace the crap of all of us!

I think this is the day of the Yassos, as it’s the only time Patricia joined and (and kicked our butts!) From left: Patricia, Daphne (see, she’s always happy!), Maureen, me and Kettia

Daphne just did Chicago, in amazing fashion, PR and BQ, Kettia is not marathoning this fall for once and Maureen and I are doing NYCM. We had a nice little tight fun training cycle girls. I have to thank you all but mostly the blondie!

Daphne, this marathon is for you

And in case you were wondering what’s going on in my nails, there you go. I am ready people.