Anyone who knows my sense of direction will understand my need to walk everywhere with a map in Las Vegas! Registering at the conference centre, finding the actual start and knowing where the finish was - all crucial! 

Arriving on Thursday travelling through 2 time zones, sunshine, snow blizzard and back to sunshine sets the scene for a variety of challenges. The Vdara Hotel was my haven, a smoke free zone and no gaming facilities, but central on the Las Vegas Strip. 

Friday's journey to receive official number and chip revealed the range of themes open to visitors.

Aside from the casinos - theatres, shows,  gardens, shopping for all budget types, and people watching can entertain for hours. An amazing group of helpers at all times.

Saturday confirmed the start and finishing areas in my mind and the pathways to follow. Past experience of starts, I was wary of timings to leave baggage, for post race, and securing my corralled position for the start. No need for concern - on the day organisation was perfect, early arrival allowed familiarity with procedures. Snacks and advice freely available and a lively band to encourage staying warm as the temperature dropped.

Thermals and bin liners saved my race day - 8 degrees and chilling wind at 4.30pm kept everyone on their toes. Lots of concern for the cut off time of 5hrs.  It took

20 mins to reach the starting line so changed the game plan! Increased my running periods 25% upto 21 miles then reverted to more power walking! It could have spelt disaster!

Sub 5hrs felt amazing - main clock showing 4:52:21  and inspired the run to the finishing line. Memories of neon lights, kaleidoscope ceilings, run in wedding parlours, and Ballagio's misty magic fountain display will last a long time. Almost there with the target - love to fill a week of dog training. For several days I awaited confirmation of my time - details on website only to age 64 for females. My watch had shown 4hrs 06mins and truly believed it had broken down. The certificate verifies 4:06:11!!! Thanks Truffle, we were barking mad together that night.