Ever since Tiffany ran the New York City Marathon in 1999 she had been trying to convince me to train for and run a marathon with her.  I always said she was crazy, but somehow she finally convinced me to run one.

After completing the Broad Street 10 Mile Run in May and the Philadelphia Distance Run, a half marathon, in September, I finished the Philadelphia Marathon in 3 hours and 36 minutes on November 20, 2005.  Though I enjoyed the summertime training for the half marathon more than the fall time training for the full marathon, I'm still glad I went the distance and made it to the end.  I'm sure Tiffany was with me for every stride.

photo by Blaine Keister

Even with my eyes closed, there's something to smile about at mile 13.

photo by Blaine Keister

In the sun's spotlight on my way out to Manayunk before turning around and heading for the finish line at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

photo by Blaine Keister

With a grimace like that captured by the camera I'll be sure to remember that cramping calves are very painful.

photo by Dad Filip

In the shadow of the Philadelphia Museum of Art with my classmate Noah who joined me at mile 21.5 and made sure I crossed the finish line.

photo by Mom Filip

In the finish tent with the Drs. Filip checking my vital signs.  Their diagnosis: he's a little delirious, but definitely glad to be finished.

photo by Eric Tars

Four miles to go in the Philadelphia Distance Run, September 18, 2005.  Shorter distances are for me!

Thanks to everyone who followed my training or ran the Broad Street Run or Philadelphia Distance Run with me.  And thanks especially to everyone who cheered me on on marathon day.  It was great to have your support.  I couldn't have done it without you.