Annabeth's POV

I stood at the starting line blocking out the crowd. Well, most of the crowd. Percy's and Emily's voices rang out. I took deep breaths trying to steal my nerves. I waited paying attention to the signals. The gun blasted and I took off. The wind whipped against my face and the mildly hot air filled my lungs. I grinned at the familiar sensation of running. I had gotten out to a fast start. I checked my surroundings and realized I was second. Alex McCroy was first. I had to beat her. I bid my time sitting at a comfortable pace on her shoulder. We were steadily pulling away from the pack. We were nearing the mile marker and I was still feeling good.

By the third mile we had a huge lead. My breathing was even and my legs were cramping slightly. I kept my stride open remembering the physics of the sport. I let my body relax tensing up would only make me tired. Alex was struggling with her breathing. I had a small smile. Just a little farther and I can make my move.

Nearing the four mile marker I was feeling giddy. Just a little longer. I could see the sign and prepared to open my stride. I was at a good time and we had one mile left. We flew by the sign and I sighed. Time to go. I opened my stride letting it cary me forward. I relaxed my shoulders and moved my arms. My legs responded pulling me forward. They ached with the effort but I welcomed it. I was used to pain. You could never take running as a sport if you didn't like pain. I heard Alex's feet thumping against the pavement and I knew she was trying to stay with me. We rounded the corner with 800meters left. I flew. The wind hitting my face, the joy of doing something good. I switched gears gaining speed. Alex's breath was ragged and she was gasping for air. I kicked it up another notch racing against the wind. I heard Percy and Emily screaming encouragement. I stole a glance at them and smiled at Percy. He was racing towards the finish line along with me with Emily clinging to his back. They whooped and hollered. I smiled sprinting to the finish. Alex was left in my dust as I surged forward. I hit the finish line and the crowd erupted.

I stood with my hands on my head. I turned to see Alex finishing but something was wrong. She wasn't stopping. I dove to the side but she hit me. The world spun and I heard a loud snap and then it all went dark.