Eastern States and Altered States

Ahh, the Eastern States 20 mile run, an annual E Streeter tradition - gorgeous course, roaring winds, and a great feedbag afterwards.  From Kittery, Maine, down the coast of New Hampshire's beaches to Salisbury, Mass.

This year marked Andrew's inaugural outing for the race, and to celebrate, he participated in a proven pre-race ritual used by Kenyans prior to their Boston Marathon wins

It's all about the commitment.  Or being committed.  Or needing to be committed somewhere.

Another pre-race ritual, Barry's attempt to down one of the Gu energy gels.  Normally, his gag reflex kicks in moments later, providing hilarity to all

Case in point

Finally, out on the course, 'round about mile 5 at Odiorne Point, Andrew looks like he's running the race all by himself

The Brothers Scanlon

A few miles further, and Andrew still has the frame of mind to pose for the cameras.  John would be proud.

Mile 7, and Barry is partaking in one of his usual past-times, shedding clothes

Mile 8, and Tommy can hold his water

Barry was reunited with Skippy, his starting line nemesis

At this point, Andrew exclaimed "I FEEL GREAT!" The mantra would change by mile 16.

Along the course, there are few spectators, and none as loyal as Ann Scanlon, seen here cheering on the masses.  Too bad her husband running past her doesn't realize she's there.

Andrew is just hitting his stride, and getting ready to kick it in for the back half

One of Barry's favorite stretches of the course, through scenic Rye Beach

Taking a page from the Kenyan elitists, Barry perfects his patented chewing-of-his-shirt-collar move.  We think the collar is coated in performance-enhancing drugs or something

Obviously, the Scanlon boys didn't confer about their fashion choices pre-race.  A running fashion faux pas.

One of these buffoons still has enough bravado in him to flex for the cameras.  The other one would likely rip his shirt were he to flex at this point

Here, it was a bridge over troubled waters, but the end was in sight

A man alone with his thoughts.  Of Kenny Chesney and cowboy boots.

A classic state line race.  Who took it?  Does it matter?

Afterwards, back at Casa de Scanlon, their bellies full of soup, salad (complete with crouties and bacon bits, a la General Hospital) and pasta, the runners with their support staff.  We couldn't do it without all of you out there cheering us on! Sadly, our good friend M.J. was unable to join us for this group picture.  She declined the invite to have dinner with a group of people she never met before, but whose cars she spent most of the day riding in.

Just three weeks to the big day, April 15 and the running of the Boston Marathon.  With today's run under our respective belts, the hay is in the barn!