I’m back in ATX to run my 5th Austin Marathon. I ran my first in 2011 in 4:23, about the same time I expect to finish tomorrow. In between, I ran 3 under 4 hours; 3:45, 3:39 and 3:54. I’m running a bit heavy so this might be my slowest. If you want to track me, download the app. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/austin-marathon/id1141037258

Because I know my way around Austin, I parked in the Bouldin neighborhood to easily get to the Expo at the Palmer Event Center. I was in and out before the average person could park their car in the garage. I got back to my car just as the rain began to pour.

We spent Friday night at my in-laws. So much family showed up to wish me luck, it felt like Christmas. We ate dinner with my family tonight at Iron Works.

Forty years ago, I took Karen dancing at Maggie Mae’s on our first date. She wore a short skirt and a long jacket. I fell in love with the sway of her hips, not knowing she was a ringer on the Texas Dance Team.

We stumbled out tonight just like the first time. Tomorrow might not be as warm as I feared, but the humidity will be 80%. I’m going to leverage the BNP electrolytes at the aid stations to eschew a vest, hoping that will help my sweat to evaporate. I’m too out-of-shape to maintain a hard pace, but I might be able to maintain 10 minute miles for a 4:22.