We started out about 30 seconds too fast for the first ten miles because she seemed very strong from a multi-week taper. In hindsight, this might have been a bit too ambitious and may have caused too much fatigue early in the race.
A well-meaning spectator offered some encouragement at mile 16 by cheering "Only ten more miles to go"! Although it was meant to help the runners along, it literally made Bon hit the wall and start to fight back tears. This is what endurance athletes refer to as the "moment of truth" where some competitors simply give up and pull out of the race. It was amazing to watch what happened next.
The night prior to the race our group met and talked about worry. We quoted Matthew 6:34: Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
The point of this verse is that although in our daily lives we wish to plan out our week, our year, our retirements - sometimes things don't go the way we'd hoped. The stock market tumbles, a loved one may become ill, or God may take us down a different path. Essentially, there's nothing to be gained by worrying about the future. We must live today with integrity, honesty, and seek to honor God...ONE STEP at a time!
So it is in our physical endeavors. Although we plan out a pacing strategy, a nutrition plan, and a training regimen, sometimes things don't go as we had hoped. It's too hot. It's raining. I'm about to bonk with 10 miles to go. It is at these times that we show our true colors as Christian athletes. We must put forth our best effort and leave the results up to God. Pray for strength and do your best.
It was inspiring to watch Bon dig deep and continue the next 10 miles to the best of her ability. She would run as far as she was able, walk a bit, and then run again. As any marathon runner knows, the body is pleading for you to take a rest or call it a day. The runner must force the body to do as the mind orders. If the mind gives up, you're sunk!
Bon finished in under 5 hours (4:59). It was a treat to share the experience of our first marathon together!
We also need to recognize the hard work of all of the members on the FCA Team. Although this story highlights Bonnie's race, every teammate was victorious in their training and execution. We were also blessed to have wonderful friends, family members, and spouses support us while we ran.
Praise God for such a wonderful group of Christian athletes!
