Long Beach Marathon - Rafael's First

For the last 5 years, Angel and I have always made it to the Long Beach Marathon whether as runners or just plain supporters of the GK Hero's Run. It was actually during training for our first marathon that our relationship blossomed. Last year, was the only year we didn't make it due to previous commitments and we almost didn't make it today. This year marks the 5th year anniversary of the GK Hero's Run and what better reason to celebrate it than take part in it but this time with the 3rd runner in the family, Rafael.

Traffic was unusually light heading into Long Beach. It didn't take us that long to get parking and close to the starting line at that.

The mood was festive as usual. The sea of runners at the starting line.

Since the full and half marathon runners start an hour and a half earlier, most people were already in the starting line by the time we arrived. We managed to take a few snaps of the GK Runners before they left.

Rafael had a blast running around before the start of the 5K

The 5K Bib.

Heading into the 2nd mile. It was no picnic, I tell you.

Mommy with Rafael approaching the 3rd mile...

Mike and I with Annika and Rafael

Almost to the finish line

Annika and Rafael running towards the finish line..

The sight of Bubba Shrimp and Forrest Gump made Rafael and Annika run even faster towards the finish..

almost to the finish... can you see the smile from Rafael's face from this angle?

whew!!! finally made it..Annika and Rafael giving Bubba Shrimp a hug as Forrest Gump looks on..

He didn't want to let go of Bubba...

Mike, Lyndee and Annika at the finish...

Angel, Rafael and I...he had his eyes set on Bubba the entire time...


Rafael showing off his first medal...for not falling asleep the entire time in the stroller..

Annika showing off her medal as well...

Rafael with Mommy...

The GK Hero's Run booth..

The KFC Coords...with their K's.