Korean Baseball!

Sunday, April 10th, I completed my first 1/2 marathon of 2011. Actually, it was only the second half marathon race I've ever completed. I did my first half last year, I guess after competing 2 full marathons, it was time to try the half distance. Saturday's race was great! It was called the MBC Adidas Marathon. It was a very big event. Maybe 10,000 runners showed up! They offered a full, half, 10k, and 5k. The biggest event I've been to so far in Korea. The race swag was great - an Adidas technical shirt and a backpack. The weather was almost perfect for the race. A bit chilly in the morning, and warmed up as the day went on, topping out at about 17c. I think we could have had a bit more sun, but that's only because I am ready to start on my tan! The course was challenging. It was very hilly and pretty! We did a bit of running along the Han River, some running through a park, and of course, some along the streets of Seoul. I would do this course again! I actually got a PR for the race, however, I set off with a plan - nice and easy! I stuck to my plan through the whole race and finished feeling great with a big smile on my face. In my training, I'm only up to 10 miles, so pushing it to 13 risk's injury, and with the Ironman70.3 on the horizon, injury is not an option! 

After the race was complete, I joined the rest of the Seoul Flyers (my run club) for a little picnic! They had all sorts of fruit, homemade muffins, chocolates, granola bars (all Western food!!!). Some of the things I haven't had in months, so I enjoyed all they had to offer! Considering I had done 50 miles in 2 days, I figured it was ok ;)

Yes, that's right - 50miles in 2 days. I'm ramping up and getting ready for the 70.3, so Saturday called for a 2:30hr cycle. I set off for just under 3 hours and managed 37 miles. Many of which were up and down hills. I am growing to love the challenge of the hill!! Since prior to this, most all my riding had been done in Houston, I pretty much didn't know what a hill was. There was a ride or two done in Austin, TX that had some hills, but they are nothing compared to the hills here. 

I do enjoy seeing Korea via cycling. I am able to travel off the beaten path and see small towns and back country roads. I usually bring my camera just in case I see something that is deserving of a quick photo break. 

Outside of training, on Saturday, I made it to a Korean baseball game. It was similar to a game in the States. The stadium was filled with families and rowdy drunks. The teams played 9 innings and seemed to have the same rules as US baseball. However, they had cheerleaders, a person who stood on the dugout the whole game doing crowd interaction, getting everyone to cheer throughout the whole game. Also, the game moved really slow. I saw a lot of errors, missed catches, things you wouldn't see at a US baseball game. Maybe baseball isn't Korea's best sport. Still a fun evening out!! :)

This coming weekend I have another 2:30hr ride planned, only a 11 mile run on Sunday, and 2500meters in the pool. This weekend is also the Cherry Blossom Festival in Seoul, I'll be sure to head up there to see it! Should be beautiful.