This past weekend was jam-packed full of super fun activities, memories, and opportunities. Traveling to Boston solo, while my husband held down the fort with the three monkeys was much appreciated. I had been to Boston once as a young teen with my family on vacation (my grandpa grew up there)… but this was my first trip as an adult. AND running the Boston Marathon to top it all off!
My flight arrived in Boston Saturday afternoon. I hopped in a cab to my hotel. I stayed in the Ritz which was near all the action (finish, bus loading, Boston Commons, expo, and more). The staff was so supportive and accommodating. The hotel was gorgeous and super clean. If I was going to run the Boston Marathon again, I would totally stay there again.
Promptly after arriving to my hotel, I dropped off my luggage and walked to the expo. It was a short walk (a little over a mile) down Boylston Street. Oh the excitement, hype, and energy the street had all weekend… it was so fun!
The organization of the whole race was streamlined and perfect. I was quickly able to find where I needed to pick up my race packet, bag, and was directed to the expo.
The race expo was huge. HUGE! It was crowded filled with anxious runners, families, and community members. There were familiar vendors, companies and products that I have seen at other race expos… while some were new to me. HUGE and overwhelming would be the words I would use to describe the expo.
I was able to stop by the Polar booth and meet some of the amazing crew who were manning the booth that morning. I love my Polar products, and I love the Polar family. Proud to be a Polar Ambassador.
On my way out, I saw THE Bart Yasso hanging out at the Runner’s World booth. I had to briefly chat with him, let him know that I did (and survived) the Yasso 800 workout (while pushing the jogger) and take a picture. Yup. I totally was that girl and he was so nice!
After the expo, I was able to see and experience the finish line. It was a buzz with people wanting to check it out, just like me.
I love that the FINISH LINE is painted on the road… all year long! They freshen up the paint job before the big race… but it is there as a reminder of this occasion. So neat!
Yup. I was there. Nothing like taking a selfie of yourself as you are amidst thousands of other nervous athletes at the Boston Finish line a few days before the race. Can you see the excitement and nervousness on my face!? Ha!
That evening, I walked and explored the Boston area. I walked around the Boston Common, walked on the Freedom Trail, explored and ate at a local restaurant (Intermission Pub), and hung out at my hotel. Nothing too exciting but totally relaxing.
Sunday was filled with activities for Team Stonyfield. We met at Athleta for a meet and greet with Girls on the Run (Boston). We enjoyed getting to know each other, meeting the team, and had a yummy breakfast. In the picture below: Laura, Angela, Aura, Janae, Me, and Megan.
After breakfast, I walked to the expo (again, why not!?) with Laura and Angela. We made it down to the finish line to meet Scott Jurek (amazing super ultra marathoner and author of Born to Run). He is super tall (and nice)!
I also got to see and hug my California blogging buddy, Brian of Pavement Runner.
The team met up again for lunch at Sonsies. It was great to sit down and get to know the girls on the team. I love how you can instantly fall at ease and like people… this was THAT type of group. I love these girls and am excited to call them friend.
After lunch we headed back to the expo (lots of walking) for a final team photo at the Stonyfield Organic booth. The members of Stonyfield were SO nice and encouraging. I loved how they could easily make me smile and enjoy the moment.
Team Stonyfield: Laura, Tina, Me, Megan, Angela, Janae, Jill, Aura
After all the walking and time on my feet, my lower back and legs were aching. I was glad for the low key evening and headed back to my hotel room. I ordered room service for dinner (pizza) and picked out my race outfit and gear for the following morning.
Ready or not… I was getting ready to run 26.2 miles from Hopkington to the streets of Boston. Stay tuned, I will share my first Boston Marathon experience with ya’ll in a few days!
Laura @ Mommy Run Fast says
I love reliving this through your blog post- what an amazing weekend. So great to hang out with you, too!!
stephanie says
LOVE!
katie says
I loved seeing all the pictures and following your journey! Cant wait for the rest of your recap
Rebecca Jo says
So many runner bloggers 🙂
I would be so giddy just standing at that finish line.
Cant wait to hear about your race day experience!