The difference in emotions one week can make.
Last weekend, Sara Hall finished sixth in the U.S. Olympic Trials, watching as her dreams at being an Olympian were snatched.
On Sunday, Hall, 38, wore the American flag on her back and smiled from ear to ear after winning the women’s elite division of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Peachtree Road Race with a time of 31:41.
“It’s always special getting to wear the flag,” Hall said. “That motivates me out there. I’m like, ‘I want to be the one to hold the flag at the end.’ That gets me excited.”
Hall felt the pressure of second-place finisher Emily Durgin on the last 800 meters of the race, but was able to hold her off. She credited her experience in the U.S. Olympic marathon trials in February 2020.
“I’ve always had a good race at Peachtree, so I’m happy to make good memories here in Atlanta,” Hall said. “This course is always tough. You’re always ready for all the hills out there. Last time I raced here was the Olympic marathon trials, and the hills got the better of me. I’m thankful to have a good experience out here today.”
While doing post-race interviews, fellow runners yelled their congratulations to Hall. She thanked them every time.
“I’m excited about continuing to race, like being out here today and getting back out there,” Hall said. “I think we’re just grateful for any crowd now because we’ve been doing races with zero crowd or spectators. Just to have a little more atmosphere and feel like we’re getting back to normal racing is really a blessing. I enjoy having real road racing again.”
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