It’s 3am and the women are a good portion into the World Championships Marathon Finals in Berlin, Germany… and I’m awake with Haley, fellow runner and lifelong friend.

We’re watching because we’re both in love with American distance runner, Kara Goucher. (It’s a healthy love, don’t worry). This race is very important for Goucher as she comes off of her third place win in Boston. The last time an American woman was on the podium for the marathon at the World Championships was in 1983, and in 2009, Kara Goucher has a shot at winning gold.

Haley and I are watching and cheering her on from our homes in Portland, OR and San Francisco, CA (we’re watching via live streaming video, and together via Skype). Our hero is running through the streets of Berlin and inspiring American runners back home.

Good luck on the last few miles, Kara!