Posted by Agnes Oquendo on August 5, 2001 at 06:40:56:
We were so happy to see such a great turnout to send us off. It was so nice to see everyone -- I tried to thank everybody but I am sure that there were a few people that I didn't get to talk to. I would like you all to know that we were all touched by your support. We had about 100 people starting the run with us, with about two dozen or so (plus some people on bicycles) who made it all the way to the Outerbridge Crossing. We started at Clove Lakes Park, went up Victory Boulevard, to Richmond Avenue, and onto the Richmond Parkway. Many people in their cars honked and waved their support as we ran by. We would especially like to thank the police escort, who stayed with us and kept the traffic at bay even on the Parkway.
Well, day one is over. I ran a total of 12 miles today. We went as far as 30 miles. In New Jersey, it became warm and sunny. At about 20 miles, the three guys (Louis, Mike, and another ultramarathoner who's running with us for a few days, Spencer Ellis) started to pick up the pace. We got off at Pfeiffer Boulevard, then on to 501 (Perth Amboy) then on to 27. On this route there were sidewalks, so it was safer to travel on. The 30 mile mark was at Cozzens Lane on 27 - that's where we will start tomorrow morning.
Thanks again to everyone who showed up, and to those that wanted to but couldn't. Goodnight 'til tomorrow.
-- Agnes