From the time I woke up early in the morning of November 4, I had a feeling of excitement that was almost overwhelming. I was unable to eat more than a few nibbles from a bagel, and it was a great relief to start running (quite slowly) at 7 am.

I jogged slowly up the climb to the AT, worrying that I was going too slow. But few people passed me, even later when I walked on the uphill paved intervals on the trail. Once I was running on the rough, rocky portion, people constantly caught up with me and passed. At first I would stop to let the faster ones pass, but then there appeared to be an unending stream behind me. I marveled at the way they danced through the rocks. I was moving at a moderate trot, but most other runners at that point would quickly move ahead. I rolled my ankle hard over at least four times, but didn't hurt it.

On the AT, the first indication that I was nearing an aid station usually was the faint sound of voices and applause. Then, minutes later, the clearing and aid station would come into view.

I packed twenty pounds of supplies for my crew (Norm and Hiroko Hunt) to lug around, but I used just over an ounce of it ? one gel-pack and several Succeed tablets. I never reached marathon distance before feeling so fresh. But miles 28-40 were difficult. During the most difficult part, I would run two miles and then walk 4 or 5 minutes. While running, I would sometimes check my watch to verify that 2 more minutes had gone by as I thought, and find that it had only been twenty seconds.

It was great to see other Reston Runners out there watching and encouraging us. Joyce was on her bicycle at the entry to the C&O canal, and a couple Reston Runners ran by in the opposite direction at mile 38. I was surprised to see a veritable buffet table at mile 34, courtesy of Bunny and Jerry Bonnes. I really was sorry to tell them that all I wanted at that point was WATER!

At mile 40 it became possible to think that I would be done soon. It was a special moment when Norm and Hiroko pulled up alongside me on the road near mile 44 talking to my wife on their cell phone. As I would find later, Norm had frequently called her to advise her of my progress, and she in turn phoned our relatives in Ohio.

With 4 miles to go, a sense of euphoria settled in on me and the temptation to stop running and walk vanished. I imagined myself headed to my house on the way back from a short recovery run, with sore muscles but relaxed.

Parts of the JFK50 were fun and other parts were very demanding. It is truly remarkable to see the effusion of human spirit among runners and crew. I found the event to be deeply satisfying and well worth doing. I commend Anna Bradford's efforts as the prime mover for our club contingent. Happy Birthday Anna!