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This Sunday (4/29), I will be running The New Jersey Half Marathon for the 
second consecutive year. I’m really looking forward to it and can’t wait. Training is coming to an end and I’ve been doing a lot less these past two weeks but will get more into that during a later blog post. Right now, I’m just looking forward to these five things:
- It’s definitely one of the coolest places to start a race. The race begins at the Monmouth Park Racetrack. With it being at the racetrack, there is plenty of parking and areas to warm up and get ready. Plus, the start is just awesome. Just like a horse race, a bugler starts it off by playing the bugle. I’ve always loved that. Then to top it off, “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen blares from the speakers. Hey, it’s Jersey. No better way to get pumped up and started than with the Boss.
- It’s a mostly flat and fast course. I really enjoyed the course last year. I’ve run four half marathons so far and this was the fastest one I’ve run and it’s by a lot. I ran last year in 1:58:00. The only time I’ve cracked 2 hours so far. The course takes you through a few towns so the scenery changes a bunch which is nice. The inclines that are on the course are small. If you want to BQ, this is the place to do it in the full marathon.
- The boardwalk finish. I love the beach, one of my favorite places to be. The Jersey Shore always will have a special place in my heart. It’s so cool to run and see the waves crashing. You’re on the boardwalk for a little less than 1 1/2 miles. It’s a spectacular finish venue.
- The post-race party with complimentary Asbury Park Brewery beer. I’ve yet to run a race that I get a free beer at the end. I’m really looking forward to hearing some live music and enjoying a nice cold beer after running 13.1 miles.
- Seeing my wife and kids at the finish. Last year’s New Jersey Half Marathon was the first half marathon I’d ever run. It was so special to see them at the finish line. I was proud and nothing beat the hugs I got from them. I can’t wait to experience that again. One additional thing that is cool about this race is that my family can see me around mile 9 and walk only a few blocks over to the finish area. It’s very convenient.
There is still time to sign up for the half marathon or you can run the 5K on Saturday, April 28. Hope to see you there!
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