"I have done 2 NYC Marathons 2002 and
2003. It is extremely exciting to come 
to the finish line at the NYC Marathon 
and when they wrap the medal around your 
neck as well as the moon blanket. 
All part of the ceremony. The Marathon is 
not easy, and it was hardest running through 
Brooklyn because it seemed endless. 

Coming off the 59th St. Bridge is the 
tremendeous rush, and one tends to run 
little too fast and forget there is about 11 
miles left.

I live on 85th Street, off First Avenue, so 
it was very difficult to pass this block. 
Temptation to go home was extreme. I said 
never again, but who knows when the 
invatation comes from the NYRRC to take part 
in the 2004 Marathon. 

I am automatically qualified as I have run 
a minimum of 9 races the previous year".

During autumn of 2003 Anna-Liisa did a short 
5 km race to benefit breast cancer. She has 
done it for the last 6 years, that was her 7th.
It is growing every year. Last year 30'000 
runners took part. Runner has a bib in the 
back for either you run in someones memory or 
you celebrate a cancer survivor.