May 3, 2009
The Pittsburgh Marathon was absolutely fantastic. I returned to my adoptive city, though I only lived there for 4 years I have a very comfortable feeling in the "Burgh". This race was very challenging and I finished with my best time yet for the 26.2 mile run: 4:27:04. I managed to stay at the Hampton Inn on Smallwood Street which is at the starting and finishing line, since this is a loop course. Of course no trip to Pittsburgh is complete without a visit to Primanti Brothers on 18th Street in the Strip District. Went there two times and had the famous Primanti Sandwich. Also took a picture with Toni Haggerty who was featured on the Travel Channel and Food Network.
The Race:
Very nice weather conditions except for the rain which occurred from mile 12 through 19. I ran a conservative but steady pace. Since this was my third marathon, I am getting very comfortable and recognize how to run these races. The crowds were very enthusiastic. We went through the North Side, crossed the Ohio River on the West End Bridge, ran the South Side and then crossed the Monongahela River into Oakland. Passed my Alma Mater, the University of Pittsburgh and headed up towards Shadyside, Point Breeze, Homewood, East Liberty, Bloomfield and back downtown to the finish. I did hit the wall at mile 22 but was able to run through it. This course was actually hillier than San Francisco which I will run again on July 26, 2009.
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