A mere four days after the race, I made my first post-marathon run attempt at home. This was an extremely easy run for 2 miles on Thursday morning. My left hamstring seemed to have recovered (although I made sure to go to yoga on Wednesday and stretch, stretch, stretch).
Later that evening Kevin and I boarded a plane and went to New Zealand! We arrived in Auckland on Saturday morning, and jet lag led to a wake up call at 5am on Sunday. I decided to take a run on the Tamaki Drive, along the harbor. I watched the sunrise and couldn't help make it 5 miles. I did pay for this with a sore right thigh for a few days afterward. I also then noticed that I have a blueish toenail - the second toenail on the right foot. Oh noes! I thought I avoided a nail casualty, and although two weeks later it is still hanging on, I haven't exactly touched it with a ten foot pole as I would rather it not be pulled off unless it just falls off. Uck! I am close to painting my toenails tonight to just avoid having to look at it, I am in denial about its possible sad fate.
Anyhow, I took a break from running in Queenstown (our next stop), and found it impossible to run on our boat cruise (duh) to Doubtful Sound, which was much fun and beautiful and unbelievable looking. There was some exercise with a kayaking trip, which I found to be difficult but fun. I was extremely pokey.
Once in Christchurch there was a park and garden where I took another spin for 3 miles. I was officially feeling back to normal at this point. Another harbor run in Wellington (Oriental Bay) for 4 miles or so... and a treacherous hilly run in Ponsonby back in Auckland. Literally on top of a huge steep hill, this neighborhood was a challenge. You need to work on hills, this is your place. I was afraid of both dark clouds approaching and injury due to excessive hill-work and cut this run short.
Today I was back at home and ran a 5 miler! Officially feeling back to normal and relatively jet lag free so far! Marathon and quickly followed by an across-the-world adventure - it can be done!
Monday, October 19, 2009
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
THE Race Report - Maine Marathon
Pre-Race: I woke up around 6am, but didn’t actually get out of bed until 6:15. Quickly got on the race gear, ate my banana and cashew cookie Lara Bar, along with a good 8 ounces of water. Kevin and I headed downstairs to the lobby for 7am, met Sasha and Rob to head down to the starting line, and received good luck hugs from my Mom and Aunt Helen.
Weather was perfect, overcast and not too warm, not too cool. I could not have asked for a better race day. There was traffic to the starting line, but we were smart enough to get off the highway going to opposite direction on Forest Ave, and found a very close parking lot. The four of us quickly found our way to the start, which was pretty packed! Sasha and I got our pre-race pics taken, said our goodbyes to the husbands and headed into the port-o-potty line. Very exciting stuff indeed.
THE Race: The race start time of 7:45 came VERY quickly, and we found ourselves a decent spot to begin. Sasha headed off for her BQ attempt, while I started my conservative race plan, sticking to 11+ minute miles. I did have to catch myself from going out too fast but I found a steady pace pretty easily. There were a LOT of half marathoners, and I had to take into account that more folks were bound to be much faster than me, and not to take it too personally! Kev was at about 1.5 miles in, where I got a kiss and was able to drop off my pre-race sweatshirt, which I already no longer needed.
Miles 1-5: Slow and steady wins the race? Err, well, it at least finishes the race. I stuck to my race plan. Walking each water stop (these were roughly every two miles), taking in the views of the harbor, making my way over the bridge to Falmouth. The racers were pretty much spread out at this point. In Falmouth we ran through a lovely waterfront neighborhood, with gorgeous bungalow/cottage-like houses facing the harbor. Later we saw some huge mansion-land houses, but this neighborhood was much more my speed. They also had many folks out on their lawns cheering us on, which was much appreciated!
Miles 5-8: Keeping steady I continued, and watched the half-marathoners make their turnaround. The cliché comment had to be made to the woman next to me, “The sane people go to the left, and the psychos keep on running.” We also ran past the Falmouth Fire Station, where my friend Jean (who is from the area) told me was the best water and pit stop around! In the past, her father worked this water stop every year. I made sure to take a moment to think of him as I stopped here. This was also where I ate my first ClifShot gel. It was gross but did the trick. After this water stop I ran into fellow TnT folks, my mentor and his girlfriend. They seemed to be doing well, and I was happy to have caught up with them! I continued onward as they stretched, looking for another teammate who was also up front somewhere.
Miles 9-14: At mile 9 I called Kevin, who had wrangled my crew of spectators to meet me at mile 10. Mile 9 also saw a big downhill, which I would have to revisit going uphill at mile 16! I made it to mile 10, and saw my family, each of whom I gave a kiss on the cheek! It was so good to see them all, and really gave me a boost. I saw my TnT teammate up ahead and sprinted (kind of) to catch up with her. We ran together for a while and attempted to take a pit stop at a port-a-potty, but the line was too long and we continued on. We entered a loop area with a few hills, and the 13.1 mile turnaround! Yay! Halfway there! The clock was at 2:28 here, so I knew I didn’t have a ton of time to play with if I was to finish under 5 hours. I continued… with a quick stop to the facilities (no line this time). I passed the National Guard folks who were walking the route, which was amazing. I think many of them got a good laugh at me when my husband called my cell phone and asked for my Mom’s cell phone number - which I looked up and gave to him while running A MARATHON. Note to Kev: Please do not call me again during a marathon, unless you lost a limb or something. xoxox.
Miles 15-19: My family was waiting at the 16 mile mark; my Mom said I looked good! I felt good, even facing a pretty big hill up ahead. I took in gel number 2. The hill was fine, but I have to admit that the mile markers did seem much farther apart at this point. My hips were beginning to feel a bit tight, so I did stretch out a bit somewhere around mile 18. I was looking forward to seeing Kevin and his family at mile 20. This is what kept me going.
Miles 20-22: I get to mile 20, I stop at the water stop, and I look for Kevin, no Kevin. All I had said to Kev was, "I want to see you at Mile 20." No such luck. I call him, he says he is there, I cannot find him. I start to freak out. This isn’t Kevin’s fault, or mine, but I am at a bit of a fragile state. I find that crying while marathoning leads to wheezing. I’ve never felt like this before, as if I was breathing through a straw. I do calm myself down, walk a bit, and then set out on my way. Luckily it ends up that they were at mile 21, and I found them. I didn’t stop though, because I was afraid I would cry again! When people say that the last six miles are all mental, they are TOTALLY RIGHT. At this point I should have taken another gel, but I totally forgot. In fact, I forgot to take another for the rest of the race… Luckily I was readily drinking Gatorade at all of the stops, and had enough calories in me to keep going!
Miles 22-24: I ran into more TnT people on my way back over the bridge to Portland. One of the guys noticed the back of my shirt, where it said that I was running in memory of my Dad and he yelled “Run for your Dad!” which was really sweet and all but did kick off additional tears, which led back to wheezing. Luckily I was able to rein it in pretty quickly, and set off back on my way. Soon I also ran into one of the TnT City coaches, and it was nice to chat and get my mind off the few miles ahead. We ran through another residential area, with a LOT of hills. I was ready for this to be done, but first I had to get through the longest 2 miles of my life!
Miles 24-26: At around 24.5 perhaps (up the last hill) I felt pain in my left hamstring. I was still running and continued past the final water stop (only 1.5 miles to go!!!). Then the sharp pain gave me pause, and I had to walk for a minute. After this minute was up (thanks little Garmin!) I ran again. I quickly figured out that as long as I ran it didn’t hurt as much, woo! Mentally I couldn’t face walking it in; I was going to run in if it killed me. The final mile is through the Back Cove of Portland, where there was an apartment complex, and in front of this complex there was a child SCREECHING and SCREAMING. He/She may as well have been poking ice picks into my ear drums. If it wouldn’t cause me to waste a few more feet of this race I would have run over and kicked him or something, but instead I definitely yelled some sort of combination of KID, F***ing, and SHUT UP. Forgive me, I was a bit of a fragile flower at this point. Fellow runners did laugh at least (or so I like to think).
Mile 26-26.2: Finally – I see it! The end! I hear my name on the loudspeaker, I’m still running, and feeling like I am going 100 miles an hour but was probably more like a 10 minute mile. My family is right there to witness the moment, I get my medal, my space blanket and cry a bit. Hugs from Mom and Kevin are welcomed, and I wander to the TnT tent to let them know I survived. I more than survived, I reached my goal of finishing under 5 hours. The clock was at 4:57:55 but I knew I had perhaps a minute less on my chip time. 4:56:52.
Post Race: At this point I should have EATEN SOMETHING. Instead I thought it is a good idea to go to the massage tent, well this was a BAD idea. Always eat first, kids. I began to see stars and a nice woman at the massage tent helped me over to the medical tent, where I was in the “these people need to eat something tent” as opposed to the “you need an IV or major assistance” tent. A banana and half a granola bar did the trick, and I was ready to get the heck out of there. I said hi and goodbye to my relatives, Kevin arrived with the car close by, and I hobbled over. My leg was not so happy when completely straight, but not as bad as I feared at mile 25. I just wanted to head home, and so we did. No shower, no pit stop, no nothing, just straight back to Medford. Two hours later including a detour to get ice and beer, I first sat in my ice bath, then on the couch eating pizza and watching Lord of the Rings. Ahh - a well earned relaxing evening and an end to a day that saw the mightiest physical feat of my 32 years so far!
Weather was perfect, overcast and not too warm, not too cool. I could not have asked for a better race day. There was traffic to the starting line, but we were smart enough to get off the highway going to opposite direction on Forest Ave, and found a very close parking lot. The four of us quickly found our way to the start, which was pretty packed! Sasha and I got our pre-race pics taken, said our goodbyes to the husbands and headed into the port-o-potty line. Very exciting stuff indeed.
THE Race: The race start time of 7:45 came VERY quickly, and we found ourselves a decent spot to begin. Sasha headed off for her BQ attempt, while I started my conservative race plan, sticking to 11+ minute miles. I did have to catch myself from going out too fast but I found a steady pace pretty easily. There were a LOT of half marathoners, and I had to take into account that more folks were bound to be much faster than me, and not to take it too personally! Kev was at about 1.5 miles in, where I got a kiss and was able to drop off my pre-race sweatshirt, which I already no longer needed.
Miles 1-5: Slow and steady wins the race? Err, well, it at least finishes the race. I stuck to my race plan. Walking each water stop (these were roughly every two miles), taking in the views of the harbor, making my way over the bridge to Falmouth. The racers were pretty much spread out at this point. In Falmouth we ran through a lovely waterfront neighborhood, with gorgeous bungalow/cottage-like houses facing the harbor. Later we saw some huge mansion-land houses, but this neighborhood was much more my speed. They also had many folks out on their lawns cheering us on, which was much appreciated!
Miles 5-8: Keeping steady I continued, and watched the half-marathoners make their turnaround. The cliché comment had to be made to the woman next to me, “The sane people go to the left, and the psychos keep on running.” We also ran past the Falmouth Fire Station, where my friend Jean (who is from the area) told me was the best water and pit stop around! In the past, her father worked this water stop every year. I made sure to take a moment to think of him as I stopped here. This was also where I ate my first ClifShot gel. It was gross but did the trick. After this water stop I ran into fellow TnT folks, my mentor and his girlfriend. They seemed to be doing well, and I was happy to have caught up with them! I continued onward as they stretched, looking for another teammate who was also up front somewhere.
Miles 9-14: At mile 9 I called Kevin, who had wrangled my crew of spectators to meet me at mile 10. Mile 9 also saw a big downhill, which I would have to revisit going uphill at mile 16! I made it to mile 10, and saw my family, each of whom I gave a kiss on the cheek! It was so good to see them all, and really gave me a boost. I saw my TnT teammate up ahead and sprinted (kind of) to catch up with her. We ran together for a while and attempted to take a pit stop at a port-a-potty, but the line was too long and we continued on. We entered a loop area with a few hills, and the 13.1 mile turnaround! Yay! Halfway there! The clock was at 2:28 here, so I knew I didn’t have a ton of time to play with if I was to finish under 5 hours. I continued… with a quick stop to the facilities (no line this time). I passed the National Guard folks who were walking the route, which was amazing. I think many of them got a good laugh at me when my husband called my cell phone and asked for my Mom’s cell phone number - which I looked up and gave to him while running A MARATHON. Note to Kev: Please do not call me again during a marathon, unless you lost a limb or something. xoxox.
Miles 15-19: My family was waiting at the 16 mile mark; my Mom said I looked good! I felt good, even facing a pretty big hill up ahead. I took in gel number 2. The hill was fine, but I have to admit that the mile markers did seem much farther apart at this point. My hips were beginning to feel a bit tight, so I did stretch out a bit somewhere around mile 18. I was looking forward to seeing Kevin and his family at mile 20. This is what kept me going.
Miles 20-22: I get to mile 20, I stop at the water stop, and I look for Kevin, no Kevin. All I had said to Kev was, "I want to see you at Mile 20." No such luck. I call him, he says he is there, I cannot find him. I start to freak out. This isn’t Kevin’s fault, or mine, but I am at a bit of a fragile state. I find that crying while marathoning leads to wheezing. I’ve never felt like this before, as if I was breathing through a straw. I do calm myself down, walk a bit, and then set out on my way. Luckily it ends up that they were at mile 21, and I found them. I didn’t stop though, because I was afraid I would cry again! When people say that the last six miles are all mental, they are TOTALLY RIGHT. At this point I should have taken another gel, but I totally forgot. In fact, I forgot to take another for the rest of the race… Luckily I was readily drinking Gatorade at all of the stops, and had enough calories in me to keep going!
Miles 22-24: I ran into more TnT people on my way back over the bridge to Portland. One of the guys noticed the back of my shirt, where it said that I was running in memory of my Dad and he yelled “Run for your Dad!” which was really sweet and all but did kick off additional tears, which led back to wheezing. Luckily I was able to rein it in pretty quickly, and set off back on my way. Soon I also ran into one of the TnT City coaches, and it was nice to chat and get my mind off the few miles ahead. We ran through another residential area, with a LOT of hills. I was ready for this to be done, but first I had to get through the longest 2 miles of my life!
Miles 24-26: At around 24.5 perhaps (up the last hill) I felt pain in my left hamstring. I was still running and continued past the final water stop (only 1.5 miles to go!!!). Then the sharp pain gave me pause, and I had to walk for a minute. After this minute was up (thanks little Garmin!) I ran again. I quickly figured out that as long as I ran it didn’t hurt as much, woo! Mentally I couldn’t face walking it in; I was going to run in if it killed me. The final mile is through the Back Cove of Portland, where there was an apartment complex, and in front of this complex there was a child SCREECHING and SCREAMING. He/She may as well have been poking ice picks into my ear drums. If it wouldn’t cause me to waste a few more feet of this race I would have run over and kicked him or something, but instead I definitely yelled some sort of combination of KID, F***ing, and SHUT UP. Forgive me, I was a bit of a fragile flower at this point. Fellow runners did laugh at least (or so I like to think).
Mile 26-26.2: Finally – I see it! The end! I hear my name on the loudspeaker, I’m still running, and feeling like I am going 100 miles an hour but was probably more like a 10 minute mile. My family is right there to witness the moment, I get my medal, my space blanket and cry a bit. Hugs from Mom and Kevin are welcomed, and I wander to the TnT tent to let them know I survived. I more than survived, I reached my goal of finishing under 5 hours. The clock was at 4:57:55 but I knew I had perhaps a minute less on my chip time. 4:56:52.
Post Race: At this point I should have EATEN SOMETHING. Instead I thought it is a good idea to go to the massage tent, well this was a BAD idea. Always eat first, kids. I began to see stars and a nice woman at the massage tent helped me over to the medical tent, where I was in the “these people need to eat something tent” as opposed to the “you need an IV or major assistance” tent. A banana and half a granola bar did the trick, and I was ready to get the heck out of there. I said hi and goodbye to my relatives, Kevin arrived with the car close by, and I hobbled over. My leg was not so happy when completely straight, but not as bad as I feared at mile 25. I just wanted to head home, and so we did. No shower, no pit stop, no nothing, just straight back to Medford. Two hours later including a detour to get ice and beer, I first sat in my ice bath, then on the couch eating pizza and watching Lord of the Rings. Ahh - a well earned relaxing evening and an end to a day that saw the mightiest physical feat of my 32 years so far!
Monday, October 5, 2009
Race Report Part 1: Pre-Race
Saturday: We got up early... I prepared my various race day stuff, and made our way to Maine in the pouring rain. Kevin insisted we stop at the Maine Diner, one of his friends from Fox is obsessed with the place, so it had to be done. Kevin went all out with lobster stew and lobster roll, while I kept it simple with eggs and corned beef hash. Except that I never order corned beef hash, as it reminds me of cat and/or dog food but it actually tastes yummy and has enough salt in it to make me not worry about salt intake for the rest of my days.
Once we hit Portland we picked up my number and rode the route... Poor Kev had to be in charge of our spectators so we needed a lay of the land. Still, it was pouring. Please please please don't be like this on race day I thought! The course was beautiful though, so I had this to look forward to.
Checked into the hotel, checked in on my legion of fans, including my Mom, Uncle and Aunt from NY, Uncle from RI with my little cousin Lucy, Kevin's parents, and my sister-in-law Linda. I went with Kev's fam to visit Shipyard Brewery, where I ran into an old friend from college, and watched as others drank beer. I'd been t-totaling the week before the race... this stunk although I did sneak a sip of Pumpkinhead! Also went for a bit of shopping in downtown Portland which was lovely, and took my mind off this whole thing where I had to run 26.2 miles in less than 24 hours.
We met with the rest of the clan and went to dinner at Ribollita, an intimate Italian place which was so awesome and so accommodating with our large crowd. The food was perfect for a pre-race dinner. I had roasted chicken puttanesca with homemade pasta, lots of bread and some appetizers. Again the wine was flowing and I did not partake, but the water was refreshing. Bah! Who am I kidding, I wanted a drink!
We were back at the hotel early (8ish) and I was able to spend time with Sasha and Rob, being that Sasha was also running the next day. We were both freaking out a bit and it was great to sit around and laugh for an hour or so.
As I laid out my race gear, the rain continued, with lightning and thunder for good measure. I was in bed by 10, then I woke up around 3am, but fell back asleep by 3:30 or 4. I had to have a stress dream about sleeping late and missing the start of the marathon, but woke up right before my alarm at 6am.
Full race report is next...
Once we hit Portland we picked up my number and rode the route... Poor Kev had to be in charge of our spectators so we needed a lay of the land. Still, it was pouring. Please please please don't be like this on race day I thought! The course was beautiful though, so I had this to look forward to.
Checked into the hotel, checked in on my legion of fans, including my Mom, Uncle and Aunt from NY, Uncle from RI with my little cousin Lucy, Kevin's parents, and my sister-in-law Linda. I went with Kev's fam to visit Shipyard Brewery, where I ran into an old friend from college, and watched as others drank beer. I'd been t-totaling the week before the race... this stunk although I did sneak a sip of Pumpkinhead! Also went for a bit of shopping in downtown Portland which was lovely, and took my mind off this whole thing where I had to run 26.2 miles in less than 24 hours.
We met with the rest of the clan and went to dinner at Ribollita, an intimate Italian place which was so awesome and so accommodating with our large crowd. The food was perfect for a pre-race dinner. I had roasted chicken puttanesca with homemade pasta, lots of bread and some appetizers. Again the wine was flowing and I did not partake, but the water was refreshing. Bah! Who am I kidding, I wanted a drink!
We were back at the hotel early (8ish) and I was able to spend time with Sasha and Rob, being that Sasha was also running the next day. We were both freaking out a bit and it was great to sit around and laugh for an hour or so.
As I laid out my race gear, the rain continued, with lightning and thunder for good measure. I was in bed by 10, then I woke up around 3am, but fell back asleep by 3:30 or 4. I had to have a stress dream about sleeping late and missing the start of the marathon, but woke up right before my alarm at 6am.
Full race report is next...
Sunday, October 4, 2009
26.2 Now Completed
Just a quick drop in before the detailed race report. I got in under 5 hours - so my goal was met! 4:56:52 (chip time). There were a few speed bumps but overall it went very very well. A bit of a sore left hamstring so I will be taking it easy... I'll get the play by play tomorrow.
Friday, October 2, 2009
So here we are...
Less than 37 hours until the race. How am I feeling? I'm feeling good, and relatively positive about the whole thing. What are my expectations? To finish, less than 5 hours would be ideal, but beyond that I am not putting any pressure on myself. Even then, pressure is minimal. It is enough of a personal accomplishment that I am even attempting this. Weather looks good (for now). Overcast and into the 60s. We all know I can take crazy rainy conditions, so if a shower comes to pass, I am not freaked out. I have my race gear set, my race plan (take it easy for the first 13, 11 minute miles... and see how I feel from there). This will all be very conservative. I want to still love running after this!!!
My friend Sasha, who is also running in Portland, (who has been such an inspiration to me by the way, juggling kids with marathon training AND attempting a Boston Qualifying time, yowzas!) commented that people aren't surprised that she is doing this... or saying "haven't you run a marathon before?" as she is very fit and very driven. This is decidedly not the case with me because I think people truly cannot believe I am doing this, with good reason. Those that have known me since childhood would not have guessed I would attempt such a thing. Maybe it seems more believable if you have known me as an adult, but who am I kidding? No, you too are shocked. So, I say to Sasha, take this nonchalance as a complement, but I must admit, that this surprise, support and even disbelief from my friends and family has been very much welcomed!
Today my co-workers threw me a pre-marathon party, which couldn't have been nicer! Lots of yummy food, and good conversation and company. The number of people who are behind me in the endeavour are unbelievable (as seen above). I've said it before, but it bears repeating, I am so lucky to have such great people in my life. Nothing like pushing yourself to your physical limits to make you realize how good you have it!
I also can't forget who I am really running for, my Dad, Jim. I get emotional just thinking about it, he would be so proud. He would have mapped everything out for me, he would have put together a spectating plan, he would have been armed with supplies for the race, he would have been SO EXCITED. I know he will be with me in spirit, but I would do almost anything to have him there when I cross that finish line. I miss you Dad, and please watch over me Sunday morning, I'll be thinking of you for sure.
As for the rest of you, I promise to give you a blow-by-blow post race, once I can function on a vaguely literate level again (and walk to the computer).Wish me luck!
My friend Sasha, who is also running in Portland, (who has been such an inspiration to me by the way, juggling kids with marathon training AND attempting a Boston Qualifying time, yowzas!) commented that people aren't surprised that she is doing this... or saying "haven't you run a marathon before?" as she is very fit and very driven. This is decidedly not the case with me because I think people truly cannot believe I am doing this, with good reason. Those that have known me since childhood would not have guessed I would attempt such a thing. Maybe it seems more believable if you have known me as an adult, but who am I kidding? No, you too are shocked. So, I say to Sasha, take this nonchalance as a complement, but I must admit, that this surprise, support and even disbelief from my friends and family has been very much welcomed!
Today my co-workers threw me a pre-marathon party, which couldn't have been nicer! Lots of yummy food, and good conversation and company. The number of people who are behind me in the endeavour are unbelievable (as seen above). I've said it before, but it bears repeating, I am so lucky to have such great people in my life. Nothing like pushing yourself to your physical limits to make you realize how good you have it!
I also can't forget who I am really running for, my Dad, Jim. I get emotional just thinking about it, he would be so proud. He would have mapped everything out for me, he would have put together a spectating plan, he would have been armed with supplies for the race, he would have been SO EXCITED. I know he will be with me in spirit, but I would do almost anything to have him there when I cross that finish line. I miss you Dad, and please watch over me Sunday morning, I'll be thinking of you for sure.
As for the rest of you, I promise to give you a blow-by-blow post race, once I can function on a vaguely literate level again (and walk to the computer).Wish me luck!
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Soaked Clothes and Injured Fingers
Another long run mired by craptastic weather this week. My longest until October 4th, it was no less than pouring drenching rain for the 20 mile trek I took yesterday. Two weeks ago I loved the rain, a slight drizzle and downpour in the last mile or so. This time we saw downpours from beginning to end, with the occassional light rain. My clothes were literally foaming. All in all I survived! In my head I wanted to run 21 or 22 miles but I just couldn't stand being in the rain any longer and stopped at 20.15. I would still take this weather before I would put up with 85 degrees and humid. I'm so hapy it is done, and I'm gaining confidence about the marathon... as long as I don't push it pace wise, I shuld be just fine.
The bad weather caused an injury, luckily only on my two middle fingers (nice!). Up at the Chestnut Hill Reservoir I slipped going up the steps, and slammed my fingers into the stairs. For a moment I thought I had broken my fingers but found I could move them (even if the left on was already bloody, gross). Luckily this happened right next to the water stop so I was able to administer some first aid to myself and go on my way (still had 15 miles to go!). Left finger is definitely worse off than the right - it is bandaged up and I lost a lot of skin off the top of my finger. Right hand middle finger only has a lovely blood blister on top of it. Typing is mildly imparied right now. Ugh.
After the run I took a nice ice bath for my legs, had a recovery drink and ate a huge lunch. My unsaciable appetite continues on... Kev was nice enough to bring me out for sushi in Brookline for dinner, and we stopped for cupcakes on the way home. Being able to eat everything in my path thing really is one of the great payoffs for all this training. Since I begin to taper this coming week, I'll have to start cutting down on my food-free-for-all! I'm hoping I won't be so hungry overall!
The bad weather caused an injury, luckily only on my two middle fingers (nice!). Up at the Chestnut Hill Reservoir I slipped going up the steps, and slammed my fingers into the stairs. For a moment I thought I had broken my fingers but found I could move them (even if the left on was already bloody, gross). Luckily this happened right next to the water stop so I was able to administer some first aid to myself and go on my way (still had 15 miles to go!). Left finger is definitely worse off than the right - it is bandaged up and I lost a lot of skin off the top of my finger. Right hand middle finger only has a lovely blood blister on top of it. Typing is mildly imparied right now. Ugh.
After the run I took a nice ice bath for my legs, had a recovery drink and ate a huge lunch. My unsaciable appetite continues on... Kev was nice enough to bring me out for sushi in Brookline for dinner, and we stopped for cupcakes on the way home. Being able to eat everything in my path thing really is one of the great payoffs for all this training. Since I begin to taper this coming week, I'll have to start cutting down on my food-free-for-all! I'm hoping I won't be so hungry overall!
Friday, September 4, 2009
Sorry People of Somerville, Arlington and Medford!
Today is September 4th. The big day is October 4th. 1 month. That's it. Next weekend is the 20 miler and then taper. I'm feeling the stereotypical SCARED! EXCITED! TENTATIVE!
I celebrated this milestone with a 4 mile run, hitting the pavement in all three towns listed above. I threw caution to the wind and wore a pair of running shorts I have never run in before. I bought them on sale, out of a bargain bin. There was a reason they found themselves there. Throughout the run I was very uncomfortable... perhaps felt "nude" even. These shorts were too short. They also rode up, so many people saw much too much of my upper thigh area. I was pulling them down constantly, but it DID make me run relatively fast (well fast for me) averaging around 8:55/miles. I was thinking how I might make a Facebook update detailing this, but decided it was just too much information (TMI). I also thought how other people on Facebook (not my friends of course, at least I hope not!) may have written about this girl and her large blazing white upper thighs. Those who read this blog are actually interested in this running thing, so you get the down and dirty details above. Lucky you!
I celebrated this milestone with a 4 mile run, hitting the pavement in all three towns listed above. I threw caution to the wind and wore a pair of running shorts I have never run in before. I bought them on sale, out of a bargain bin. There was a reason they found themselves there. Throughout the run I was very uncomfortable... perhaps felt "nude" even. These shorts were too short. They also rode up, so many people saw much too much of my upper thigh area. I was pulling them down constantly, but it DID make me run relatively fast (well fast for me) averaging around 8:55/miles. I was thinking how I might make a Facebook update detailing this, but decided it was just too much information (TMI). I also thought how other people on Facebook (not my friends of course, at least I hope not!) may have written about this girl and her large blazing white upper thighs. Those who read this blog are actually interested in this running thing, so you get the down and dirty details above. Lucky you!
Saturday, August 29, 2009
18 Miles - DONE!
I was freaking about the rain last night and this morning, but you know what? It wasn't all that bad. It was actually great! I took it slow, but this worked. I was soaked and a bit prune-y by the time I got back, but I loved the cool weather and lack of humidity. After 18 miles I felt great, as opposed to feeling horrible on my 16 miler.
I had buddies to run with (a half marathoner for the first 4 miles and then a group of two women for the majority of the remaining miles). It was nice to chat, take it easy, and feel really comfortable. Our route is Memorial Drive starting at MIT, across the BU bridge, up Beacon St., to the Reservoir near BC, and then Comm Ave to Newton, out and back. We ran up Heartbreak Hill at 10 miles! It wasn't that bad! I am sure it is really awful when you are at mile 20 but at 10 it was great. It is so exciting to run the Boston Marathon route, even without the actual, errr... marathon going on. I ran ahead of my running buddies after the reservoir and booked it back to MIT, with some gas still in the tank. Only in the last couple of miles did the rain pick up, thankfully. I am so relieved to have had an officially nice long run. Yay! Next time I'll keep the slow pace for the first 10 miles or so, but then pick it up for a longer period of time for the last half. I was definitely starting out way too fast on my now infamous 16 mile run, and this cautious approach really seemed to work this time around.
I'm a little beat and a little crampy on the right calf but nothing too serious. I'm glad it is over and I can enjoy a drink this evening... I had to abstain last night at a get-together of friends. Cheers to 18 miles!
Also - randomly one of my running buds today knows a fellow librarian I went to Simmons with (although haven't seen in a while unfortunately, I believe we would have much to chat about!). She has a really great running blog, which I very much enjoy. You should check it out. Librarian on the Run.
I had buddies to run with (a half marathoner for the first 4 miles and then a group of two women for the majority of the remaining miles). It was nice to chat, take it easy, and feel really comfortable. Our route is Memorial Drive starting at MIT, across the BU bridge, up Beacon St., to the Reservoir near BC, and then Comm Ave to Newton, out and back. We ran up Heartbreak Hill at 10 miles! It wasn't that bad! I am sure it is really awful when you are at mile 20 but at 10 it was great. It is so exciting to run the Boston Marathon route, even without the actual, errr... marathon going on. I ran ahead of my running buddies after the reservoir and booked it back to MIT, with some gas still in the tank. Only in the last couple of miles did the rain pick up, thankfully. I am so relieved to have had an officially nice long run. Yay! Next time I'll keep the slow pace for the first 10 miles or so, but then pick it up for a longer period of time for the last half. I was definitely starting out way too fast on my now infamous 16 mile run, and this cautious approach really seemed to work this time around.
I'm a little beat and a little crampy on the right calf but nothing too serious. I'm glad it is over and I can enjoy a drink this evening... I had to abstain last night at a get-together of friends. Cheers to 18 miles!
Also - randomly one of my running buds today knows a fellow librarian I went to Simmons with (although haven't seen in a while unfortunately, I believe we would have much to chat about!). She has a really great running blog, which I very much enjoy. You should check it out. Librarian on the Run.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
I am a Lucky Lady
My friends are awesome. I've had so much support since I've started this journey. Day One (pretty much) my friend at work, Cynthia, put together a care package of Luna products - recovery drinks, luna bars, luna chews, electrolyte mixes (she is on Team LUNA Chix), which I am still barreling through. I've had people give me great tips and pointers, folks who are willing to listen to me blabber on about training, and those who have been donating to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (and many who have done all of the above!). This week, my friend Kristen has put together a site where she is selling some of her beautiful handmade items, all to proceed my fundraising efforts! You can get an awesome clutch, necklace or purse AND support LLS. I think this is a great deal if there ever was one. I would have never thought to do this, and I am so happy Kristen did, and was willing to do so. She really is the best. Go to her blog and check it out.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Oh 16 miles, you were tough
Another milestone reached, 16 miles in the bank. I wish I could say it was better than prior runs, but it wasn't. I would go so far to say it was the crappiest. Mistakes were made... Firstly I ate Indian food for dinner last night. Bad one. Secondly I tried a new breakfast, bagel and peanut butter. Fail. Thirdly, I forgot to take a Gu at the first water stop and by mile 9.5 I had hit a wall. Ugh.
Also, I like to run early... Team In Training runs don't start until 7:30 AM, just not early enough. I got up at 6, ate breakfast, and went down to MIT to start running at about 6:50 or so. This way I already ran 3.75 miles for the day... there was a bit of a wait for the official run to get going (about 20 minutes) which may have not helped me too much either. On the other hand I got some running in when it wasn't so hot, humid and crazy sunny out.
Why was this so awful?
It was hot, humid and crazy sunny. I've been spoiled this season, I admit it. I have grown used to the mild weather. In my defense I did run in Vegas last week and it was fine... ! It must have been the "dry heat." Humidity sucks (see prior post).
I had to take a pit stop at work, but THANK GOD for work.
I walked three times (at least) which is highly unusual at this point.
I was paranoid that I was over hydrating because I was going to town at every water stop.
You would think that the very-flat-runner-heaven of the Charles River would be the best run I could have, but I've done much better on my trail/road runs at the beach, the hilly Newton route, and my random not flat Northampton 12 miler in July. Admittedly I did miss one run while I was in Las Vegas on vacation (for a wedding! fun!), and some cross-training, so this may have also been a factor. On the other hand I didn't miss my 10 mile long run (running the strip at 6am is pretty awesome!), and there was a lot of activity and walking to be had on vacation.
Ah well, as long as I behave myself from now on I think I should be OK. I'm somewhat relived to get the inevitable "bad run" over with!
Also, I like to run early... Team In Training runs don't start until 7:30 AM, just not early enough. I got up at 6, ate breakfast, and went down to MIT to start running at about 6:50 or so. This way I already ran 3.75 miles for the day... there was a bit of a wait for the official run to get going (about 20 minutes) which may have not helped me too much either. On the other hand I got some running in when it wasn't so hot, humid and crazy sunny out.
Why was this so awful?
It was hot, humid and crazy sunny. I've been spoiled this season, I admit it. I have grown used to the mild weather. In my defense I did run in Vegas last week and it was fine... ! It must have been the "dry heat." Humidity sucks (see prior post).
I had to take a pit stop at work, but THANK GOD for work.
I walked three times (at least) which is highly unusual at this point.
I was paranoid that I was over hydrating because I was going to town at every water stop.
You would think that the very-flat-runner-heaven of the Charles River would be the best run I could have, but I've done much better on my trail/road runs at the beach, the hilly Newton route, and my random not flat Northampton 12 miler in July. Admittedly I did miss one run while I was in Las Vegas on vacation (for a wedding! fun!), and some cross-training, so this may have also been a factor. On the other hand I didn't miss my 10 mile long run (running the strip at 6am is pretty awesome!), and there was a lot of activity and walking to be had on vacation.
Ah well, as long as I behave myself from now on I think I should be OK. I'm somewhat relived to get the inevitable "bad run" over with!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Arrgh humidity!
We have been spoiled this summer... here it is July 27th and it is officially the first week where I dread my runs on account of heat and humidity. It is taking some getting used to, but I am chugging along. I fully expect this week to be my slowest in quite some time, but as long as I log the miles I'm not going to worry too much about it.
Since I've last blogged (which has been much too long ago), I've reached some milestones. I've run 12 miles in training, which went surprisingly well. I was on a weekend away in Western Mass, but I found a decent route from Northampton to Easthampton. Although part of the route was on a busy, ugly road (Rt. 10), I quickly found some scenic farmland at the bottom of Mt. Tom and the Easthampton bike path. On the way back to downtown Noho I was lucky enough to run into the farmers market and the most awesome whole chocolate milk from a local vendor. Sooo goood.
Last weekend I ran the Blessing of the Fleet 10 miler in Narragansett. My friend Sasha and I had a relaxing day on the beach, and this being an evening race... we were not exactly "feeling" the racing vibe. This was my longest and first night-time event... and I was happy with my performance. According to my trusty Garmin I came in around 1:32:19, but my official time was 1:33:19. Averaging around 9:20 miles! It took some time to get over the starting line, but from there it was good and steady. The views were nice, the crowds were really fun. The only incredibly boring bit was on Point Judith Road, nothing to look at, no shade and not as much crowd support. After the race, once I got home to the beach house, I was feeling really crappy. Chills, nausea, etc. A wee bit scary. I'm not sure if the chills are from dehydration... but I hit almost every water stop. I'll have to keep an eye on this for upcoming training runs. Other than this my legs and feet felt fine so hopefully I can slug through the marathon itself. It now scares me that I have to race 16.2 additional miles in just over two months. I can't believe how fast training has gone by.
Since I've last blogged (which has been much too long ago), I've reached some milestones. I've run 12 miles in training, which went surprisingly well. I was on a weekend away in Western Mass, but I found a decent route from Northampton to Easthampton. Although part of the route was on a busy, ugly road (Rt. 10), I quickly found some scenic farmland at the bottom of Mt. Tom and the Easthampton bike path. On the way back to downtown Noho I was lucky enough to run into the farmers market and the most awesome whole chocolate milk from a local vendor. Sooo goood.
Last weekend I ran the Blessing of the Fleet 10 miler in Narragansett. My friend Sasha and I had a relaxing day on the beach, and this being an evening race... we were not exactly "feeling" the racing vibe. This was my longest and first night-time event... and I was happy with my performance. According to my trusty Garmin I came in around 1:32:19, but my official time was 1:33:19. Averaging around 9:20 miles! It took some time to get over the starting line, but from there it was good and steady. The views were nice, the crowds were really fun. The only incredibly boring bit was on Point Judith Road, nothing to look at, no shade and not as much crowd support. After the race, once I got home to the beach house, I was feeling really crappy. Chills, nausea, etc. A wee bit scary. I'm not sure if the chills are from dehydration... but I hit almost every water stop. I'll have to keep an eye on this for upcoming training runs. Other than this my legs and feet felt fine so hopefully I can slug through the marathon itself. It now scares me that I have to race 16.2 additional miles in just over two months. I can't believe how fast training has gone by.
Monday, July 13, 2009
My First Spill
It was destined to happen - I finally took a header on a run. On the banks of the Mystic River, there are a LOT of tree roots. Every time I run this route I think to myself... one of these days I'll have to trip. I knew my days were numbered, and today was the day. It was a perfect storm of the tie of my shorts coming undone, roots underfoot, two runners headed towards me and a SKUNK sighting. Luckily I took the spill after the runners passed, and narrowly avoided the oncoming skunk... Traditionally wilderness sightings are my favorite part of a run, the possibility of landing on a skunk kind of put it all in perspective.
Anyhow, now I have a nasty scrape on my shin, the first injury (and hopefully last) of marathon training.
Anyhow, now I have a nasty scrape on my shin, the first injury (and hopefully last) of marathon training.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Not a pretty runner
Again I've been lucky enough to run a lot this weekend... getting up early to run 10 miles (again) on Sunday. Trustom Pond and its cavalcade of deer (a baby one this time!). On the way back I trailed a woman who was on a short run, and we paced each other so I was much faster on the last mile. 10 minute miles on average for the 10 mile run, my best yet. I also attended beach yoga, which ended up being a bit d.i.y.... the teacher started with modifications so there was more thinking on my part than usual. She would say "you can do a Chaturanga if you want now!" So I would, but I'm not exactly an expert and would really have to think about it all (breathing, posture, etc.) The location (a short walk down the beach from the beach shack) and view (of Block Island) couldn't be beat though! I did miss a X-training workout but those are the breaks. I was going to try for a swim but the waves were not very inviting this weekend.
Since you are all my good friends, and I think would enjoy a laugh, here are my absolutely yucky photos from the Charles River Run. Arrgh! So awful! Please don't tell me they don't look that bad, as this will just prove my utter ickiness. Do I look like this in real life? Who would ever want to buy an 8" x 10" of this monstrosity?
My form is also awful. I look like a monkey or something.
Since you are all my good friends, and I think would enjoy a laugh, here are my absolutely yucky photos from the Charles River Run. Arrgh! So awful! Please don't tell me they don't look that bad, as this will just prove my utter ickiness. Do I look like this in real life? Who would ever want to buy an 8" x 10" of this monstrosity?
My form is also awful. I look like a monkey or something.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Now which gym...
Lucky for me, at work we have a great gym. This includes a price that cannot be beat, good classes, free towels, nice locker rooms, decent equipment, and an indoor track. Problem is, the hours are limited in the summer (this is the trade-off for the blessed absence of students)... and what is a girl in marathon training to do? I ended up, like my good friend Sasha, now belonging to more than one gym.
This deal came my way, for a month and a half of Healthworks (all women's gym, in Cambridge among other locations) for $18. I used to belong here, but it got waaaaay to expensive. Once the rate hit $80 a month, I was DONE, but for $18 who can resist? It is worth it for a quick yoga session on the weekends, or a spin class, or just some elliptical. These have been my three cross training activities of choice and so far seemed to have contributed to my increased speed. Much more so than running, I have to force myself to spin or elliptical-it. At least spinning has fun music (with the exception of the dude who played Nickelback or some sort of horrible stuff, to his credit he said "If you like Nickelback you are going to LOVE this, if you don't, you are NOT.") and someone forcing me to push myself to the threshold, which otherwise I would not. Yoga continues to be awesome, and I now need my fix every week or I get really antsy. I may be pushing it up to two times a week when I can fit it in.
Anyone have any good cardio/low-impact x-training alternatives? I think in a few months I will definitely need to mix it up.
This deal came my way, for a month and a half of Healthworks (all women's gym, in Cambridge among other locations) for $18. I used to belong here, but it got waaaaay to expensive. Once the rate hit $80 a month, I was DONE, but for $18 who can resist? It is worth it for a quick yoga session on the weekends, or a spin class, or just some elliptical. These have been my three cross training activities of choice and so far seemed to have contributed to my increased speed. Much more so than running, I have to force myself to spin or elliptical-it. At least spinning has fun music (with the exception of the dude who played Nickelback or some sort of horrible stuff, to his credit he said "If you like Nickelback you are going to LOVE this, if you don't, you are NOT.") and someone forcing me to push myself to the threshold, which otherwise I would not. Yoga continues to be awesome, and I now need my fix every week or I get really antsy. I may be pushing it up to two times a week when I can fit it in.
Anyone have any good cardio/low-impact x-training alternatives? I think in a few months I will definitely need to mix it up.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Busy Runner
Although the clouds and rain are overall a big bummer, they make for a great run. Today was the New Charles River Run, a flat lovely 7.5M run from Cambridge to Watertown and back. Again I had a successful race, with around a 9:15 pace. The start was really packed and a little slow but as things opened up I was going at a decent clip. This is in no small part to the fact that I spoke with a fellow TNT runner in the first mile or so, and we really pushed each other along. Thanks Paul! It was also nice to chat along the course, something I haven't done too much of, but enjoyed very much.
As for the rest of this week, I have to say I really needed to push myself to get going. I didn't skip any workouts but there were a few times I was ready to (I'm looking at you post-work Friday run on the treadmill, and Wednesday night run after eating turkey sausage, swiss chard and pasta dinner. Note to self: sausage is definitely not a good pre-run meal).
I also managed to keep up with cross training, although my one sort-of injury/ache was from spinning on Thursday. Since I am a newbie, I forget my settings on the bike, and managed to start too low and with the seat too far back. Ow my hip. It seems fine now but really ached for a couple of days.
Now I am off to write some thank you emails to those who have donated recently - I'm lucky to know such generous people! Go here to donate if you haven't already. :)
As for the rest of this week, I have to say I really needed to push myself to get going. I didn't skip any workouts but there were a few times I was ready to (I'm looking at you post-work Friday run on the treadmill, and Wednesday night run after eating turkey sausage, swiss chard and pasta dinner. Note to self: sausage is definitely not a good pre-run meal).
I also managed to keep up with cross training, although my one sort-of injury/ache was from spinning on Thursday. Since I am a newbie, I forget my settings on the bike, and managed to start too low and with the seat too far back. Ow my hip. It seems fine now but really ached for a couple of days.
Now I am off to write some thank you emails to those who have donated recently - I'm lucky to know such generous people! Go here to donate if you haven't already. :)
Monday, June 22, 2009
Fantastic Running Weekend
I've been continuing my training pretty religiously, with x-training and building up mileage, and I can actually see that it is paying off! Although it wasn't a great beach weekend, it sure was an awesome running weekend, cool and overcast. I enjoyed a relaxing ten miler in Matunuck (at my in-laws beach shack), and then my fastest 5k yet, 26:38 on Sunday!
On my ten mile run I found my way to the Trustom Pond Refuge, where I did some trail running and wildlife watching. Getting up at 6am (when I actually saw the sun for the only time this weekend!!) has its perks. I saw deer bounding through the woods, a snapping turtle trying to find his way back in the water, chipmunks, bunnies, squirrels, and a lot of birds. Speaking of the birds, I really need to get myself a field guide to birds, because I am a great big nerd. By the time I was heading back to the beach the fog had rolled in, but I am pretty sure my last mile was my fastest.
Sunday was perfect for a good fast race (Will Speck Memorial Race in Cranston, RI). It was a rolling course and I bested my last 5k time (which was way back in February) by almost 3 minutes - from 29:17 to 26:38. Training pays off! In some sort of freak occurrence this wound up being 8th in my age group. Woo!
On my ten mile run I found my way to the Trustom Pond Refuge, where I did some trail running and wildlife watching. Getting up at 6am (when I actually saw the sun for the only time this weekend!!) has its perks. I saw deer bounding through the woods, a snapping turtle trying to find his way back in the water, chipmunks, bunnies, squirrels, and a lot of birds. Speaking of the birds, I really need to get myself a field guide to birds, because I am a great big nerd. By the time I was heading back to the beach the fog had rolled in, but I am pretty sure my last mile was my fastest.
Sunday was perfect for a good fast race (Will Speck Memorial Race in Cranston, RI). It was a rolling course and I bested my last 5k time (which was way back in February) by almost 3 minutes - from 29:17 to 26:38. Training pays off! In some sort of freak occurrence this wound up being 8th in my age group. Woo!
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Very little running in London
I think visiting my friends in the UK was a sound enough excuse to not run all that much over the past few days. I did have a short 40 minute run around Hackney, a few laps around London Fields, topped off with delicious salad from the lovely Broadway Market. Broadway Market makes my little farmer's markets around Boston look absolutely pathetic, to say the least. So many bakers, cheese mongers, veg stands, and so so soooo many local meats and fish. I now realize having one meat guy, 4 veg stands, and one baker does not make a top market.
Monday, June 1, 2009
So I did it.
10 miles yesterday... a run from my house to Fresh Pond and back. Just a trip down to Davis Sq., on the bike trail to Rindge Ave., down the busy parkway for a bit and around the reservoir. I had only run there once before (for a race), and I really enjoyed it this time around! Dogs were rolling in the mud, kids were on bikes, wildflowers were in bloom, and there were a number of water fountains en route. Unfortunately this run was only around 8.5 miles, leaving me with 1.5 miles to run around my neighborhood. This would be OK except that my house is practically surrounded on all sides by hills, and I had already just run up to my 'hood and was pretty wiped out. I knew if I went in any direction I would have to go down a hill and come back up. It was my most difficult run yet! I'm sure I'll be eating those words in a few weeks. I'll run this route again for sure, but next time take two spins around Fresh Pond so I can run (or walk) into my driveway and be done with it.
This weekend I also went to the Team in Training kick-off. Everyone was very nice, and I was happy to hear that I am ahead of the game in terms of mileage. Being my type-A self I would have never signed up for the program with no mileage under my belt. I know plenty of people do this (and do it well) but it would totally freak me out. The coach said to stay at the mileage I am at now and wait for them to catch up with me - sounds good! 10 miles was hard so I'm happy to stay there until July. I'm going to have to start concentrating on cross-training too. Yoga doesn't count! So sad. Spinning may be in my future?
This weekend I also went to the Team in Training kick-off. Everyone was very nice, and I was happy to hear that I am ahead of the game in terms of mileage. Being my type-A self I would have never signed up for the program with no mileage under my belt. I know plenty of people do this (and do it well) but it would totally freak me out. The coach said to stay at the mileage I am at now and wait for them to catch up with me - sounds good! 10 miles was hard so I'm happy to stay there until July. I'm going to have to start concentrating on cross-training too. Yoga doesn't count! So sad. Spinning may be in my future?
Friday, May 29, 2009
Let training begin!
This Saturday will be the kick-off event for the Boston TnT group... so I think I'll then start training in earnest. I've got a new pair of Asics GT-230s which have recently been sent on their maiden voyage and will soon be setting off with me on my first double digit run on Sunday. I told my 9 year old neighbor that I am going to try to run 10 miles this weekend to which she said "You mean 10 miles IN A ROW?" I'm as surprised as you are kiddo.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Here goes nothing...
In addition to creating numerous cliche ridden post titles, I'll be updating this blog as to my progress as a marathoner-in-training. I'll be running the Peak Performance Maine Marathon October 4th, 2009 for Team-in-Training in memory of my Dad, Jim, who passed away from non-Hodgkins lymphoma almost 6 years ago. If you are able to support my fundraising efforts - please do so here. You don't know how much I appreciate any support you can give!
If you know me, you also know I am not famous for my athletic prowess. Don't worry too much for my safety, as I began running last August (thanks C25K!), and can now run 9 miles at one time (just reached this landmark in NYC this weekend). I actually ENJOY running which is strange, I don't think I've liked any exercise before this and I'm excited to have found my niche. I knew I could train for a half marathon on my own, but a full marathon will need a team of folks helping me on my way and keeping me honest to a training plan! Also, knowing that I'll be doing this in my Dad's honor should push me further. He would be proud, supportive and extremely surprised at this athletic turnaround in his sedentary offspring. Not to be completely cheesy, but I like to think he'll be helping me along the way, in fact I think he already has by getting me this far.
If you know me, you also know I am not famous for my athletic prowess. Don't worry too much for my safety, as I began running last August (thanks C25K!), and can now run 9 miles at one time (just reached this landmark in NYC this weekend). I actually ENJOY running which is strange, I don't think I've liked any exercise before this and I'm excited to have found my niche. I knew I could train for a half marathon on my own, but a full marathon will need a team of folks helping me on my way and keeping me honest to a training plan! Also, knowing that I'll be doing this in my Dad's honor should push me further. He would be proud, supportive and extremely surprised at this athletic turnaround in his sedentary offspring. Not to be completely cheesy, but I like to think he'll be helping me along the way, in fact I think he already has by getting me this far.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)