An amazing run today in Minneapolis! After a wonderful night's sleep at Mark and Betty's last night, we were off and running around 6:30 this morning. Mark and Betty both took the day off from work and guided us through the course. Mark rode his bike to lead me, and Betty rode in the crew wagon directing the way. When we arrived at the start, another Mark from right in Minneapolis was there to join me on the run! After just about a mile or so, another friend of his Tim joined us and went another good bit with us before having to run home to get his daughter to cross country practice. Mark and I cruised on though, with cousin Mark on the bike leading the way. The course was absolutely incredible- it wound right along lots of gorgeous lakes, and traffic was slim. Around mile 14, the sky got very dark and the skies really opened up. It poured rain for the rest of the run, but I kept cooking along. Mark hopped in the crew wagon around mile 18, then jumped back in at 23 or so for the rest of it. Cousin Mark stayed strong on the bike and forged forth through the pouring rain leading me onward. I kind of felt like Rocky on a training run cruising through the parks with Mark as my bike pacer. I finished strong and felt great, with the fastest time yet for the 50 so far. The temperature was amazing- 66 at the finish. We got back, got cleaned up, did a quick news interview, then had a wonderful lunch in Minneapolis and were on the road again. We've now made it safely to Madison, WI where I'm looking forward to another nice lake-filled run tomorrow. A bit earlier start tomorrow, as we must meet a news crew at 5:15, but should start running by 6. Thank you as always for all your support and prayers!