Running a marathon of this magnitude felt like the perfect way to celebrate my health and journey back into fitness following my hamstring surgery. I followed my doctor's advice and kept my pace very easy and steady, more of a "run" than a "race," and it ended up being the most incredible experience because I got to truly connect with the crowd and the city and feel the magic of the race in an entirely new and unique way.

This marathon is about so much more than just race day. It’s about the energy in the city, seeing old friends, the jitters you feel leading up to the weekend, and even that dazed grogginess from waking up insanely early and eating pre-race breakfast at an ungodly hour.

After my experience dancing my way through the marathon on Sunday, connecting with the crowd, and celebrating health with tens of thousands of fellow runners, I can say that I feel like a new chapter has begun in my running career. I am so proud to be beginning that chapter as the newest member of the Altra community. I heard so many shouts of "welcome to the team" from my Altra teammates, and I am so excited for all the adventures, traces, marathons, and more ahead.

About the Author

Alexi Pappas is an Altra Elite Team member. She resides in Alameda, California. She has recently published her first book - Bravery - and is looking forward to telling her story with Altra Running. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram: @alexipappas