End of training..........looking back............

Yesterday, we unofficially completed our marathon training program with the last long run - a 10 miler. Now all that remains are a couple of during the week runs of 5/4 miles. Then, next sunday is the big one - 26.2 miles of running fun!!!!
Looking back, I must say that the last 6 months have been some of the greatest for me yet! In June, when we started the training, the only thing I had on my mind was "how the hell is it possible? how the hell can I run 26.2 miles, when I cant even do 4 without needing life support?" But Coach Tom sounded extremely confident of converting a bunch of non-runners into endurance runners fit enough to COMPLETE a marathon! So I decided to believe him, and go with the flow!
And how things have been flowing!!! It is pretty amazing to see yourself grow as a runner with every week, get fitter, trimmer, and stronger! Each one of us, 30 odd people, has lost a substantial amount of weight, all of us are looking healthier, and happier! In fact, comparing my photo before the training, and right now, I cant imagine 6 months of hard work can work such wonders!
The whole group has developed a great sense of camaraderie, each one cheering the others, and urging them on. There have been so many instances during the long run, where each one of us has started thinking of stopping, but has been egged and pushed by the others to go on and complete the run. It was most evident during the half marathon, where everyone was happy not only with his/her own finishing time, but also was ecstatic with what the others had achieved. Some runners completed the half marathon enduring pain and injury, and were acknowledged by everyone as great inspiration!!
It has been a wonderful and enriching experience, not only by doing something so different and physically demanding, but also sharing the experience along with so many others!
Now comes the best part.........heres wishing good luck and "cool runnings" to all!!