HOUSTON, JANUARY 18, 2001 - My hometown marathon was kind of a bittersweet event for me. After battling multiple injuries and completing my first marathon in Honolulu in December 2000, this marathon proved to be a humbling experience. I thought it would be great to complete a marathon in my own town with my family and friends on the course but it seemed like just another Houston long run to me. In a race that has been cursed with either too warm or icy cold conditions over the past few years, the temperatures were mild with overcast skies. Houston is one flat town but the underpasses during the last 10K were killers as my quads run out of juice quickly. My finishing time was a new Personal Record of 3 hours and 46 minutes.

Michael's favorite shoe New Balance 1220's	Michael wishing it was over at mile 22	Heavy legs at mile 25	Yards away from the finish	A post race laugh with Dr. Jeffery Ross
The family awaits the post race party	Barney, Katherine and Uncle Michael	Niece Katherine & Mom	Uncle Michael with future track stars