That was actually exactly what I wanted it to be. I knew this day would have to have at least 2 hours of redline effort to make it a day to cherish forever. It's a lot of fun running as the hulaman. Fifteen years of wearing this festive garb has served me well. People shout and cheer you on.
Runners comment as they pass or get passed.
But today I need to contain my usual glee and conversation to concentrate. I realize by mile 3 that I will need to communicate by sign language and keep my oxygen for the effort. I wonder if someone will wonder why such a serious attitude. I feel out of place and a contradiction. Occasionally I quietly say thanks being careful not to use up too much energy.