Alex and I have been friends since college. We live over 1000 miles apart but stay in close touch via IM, email and blogging. We've both been training for various events for a few years now. Giving each other the support we need. His determination and "I'm all in" attitude have inspired me through the years. Last December we ran the Las Vegas Marathon together. It was the first marathon for both of us. We trained separately but raced together. We would have finished together as well if I hadn't needed to make a pit stop. Shortly after the LV marathon Alex entered a contest with Jet Blue Airlines. The contest asked for essays describing why you felt you deserved to run the Boston Marathon. Alex submitted an essay stating just how running has changed his life for the better… and won! He received free entry in the race and free airfare to Boston. Neither of us are yet on a level to qualify for Boston. So this opportunity was huge. For a multitude of reasons, I was unable to be there when Alex finished the Boston Marathon yesterday in 3:56:29. Just 4 minutes off his Las Vegas time on a far more challenging course. I want to thank the people of Boston for cheering him on when I could not. When I spoke to him after the race he said he never would have broke 4 hours if not for the mass of cheering fans all along the course. Congratulations Alex, and to all the other runners who stood on the starting line yesterday. You should all be proud no matter what the end result was.
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