empathy

So running the NYC marathon last year was a bitch. Oh, it was hard. But it ain't a damn thing next to the Boston Marathon.

Dude, to run the Boston Marathon you have to qualify with SPEED. Not just run nine race the year before or win a lottery. And there is a reason for the gauntlet. The course is tough.

The topper is Heartbreak Hill. See, they always say after mile 20 you hit "the wall". Heartbreak hill is at mile 20 1/2, and it is just enough of an incline to really make or break you. Of course if you are running the damn thing at all technically you can't be broken. Doesn't make it any easier though.

Now as hard as it was in my marathon, I can't imagine doing Boston in the midst of a nor’easter. There is an advisory alert for the runners of the marathon posted on the main site. Basically it says what up - three to five inches and a little cold. Oh, and by the way:

FORECAST:
The most up-to-date weather forecast calls for a predicted Spring storm on Monday, including heavy rains (potentially 3 to 5 inches), with the start temperatures in the mid to upper 30's. Wind will likely be East (in the face of the participants for most of the race) in the 20 to 25 mile per hour range, with gusts to as much as 50 miles per hour. This will produce a wind chill index of 25 to 30-degrees Fahrenheit.

RISKS AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR RUNNERS PARTICIPATING IN COLD AND WET CONDITIONS:
Combined with the rain, we are concerned that predicted weather conditions will increase the runners' risks for a condition called hypothermia. As with any athletic competition, as a runner you are assuming the risks inherent with participation. It is your responsibility to be informed about the risks associated with running in the aforementioned conditions, and the risks of injury or illness will increase with these predicted conditions.

While exercising in cold weather, our bodies attempt to maintain core temperature by shunting blood away from the periphery, thus minimizing heat loss. Hypothermia sets in when the body's temperature drops below normal, starting when the body loses heat faster than heat can be generated. Heat is produced by muscle action and shivering. Very low body temperatures can be life threatening.

WARNING SIGNS OF HYPOTHERMIA:
Mild hypothermia is heralded by goose pimples and shivering as our bodies attempt to raise our metabolic rates to increase our core temperature.

Moderate hypothermia will result in muscular fatigue, poor coordination, numbness and disorientation.

Severe hypothermia can result ultimately in cardiovascular failure. Treatment of hypothermia requires prompt recognition and treatment as mild hypothermia can progress to a more severe situation if not addressed early.

Officially, I am a pussy. Not only do I not qualify for Boston, but to handle THAT kind of crap? Lord.

Can't wait to see who wins though. And how.