Thanks for your input on the last post - I want a Garmin 405 but might not be able to justify the "investment" right now. I'll probably get a new strap for the old Timex. I appreciate all of your comments and email!
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Marathon training begins on November 30th. I plan to run the The Blue Nose Marathon again in May of '09. I ran it in 2007. It was my first and only marathon. 18 months ago, I was hoping for a 3:30 finish until the wheels fell off in the late going. Certainly, there is no shame in a 3:53 finish, especially for a rookie. I have no regrets whatsoever.
I learned some things:
- Miles are just miles without friends. Next May, I will be less about business and more about fun. I know a few more people now that I hope to connect with before, during and after the race.
- I cannot will my body to do more than it can do. Mind over matter does not always matter. There's not much a person can do when a foot cramps up - except walk or stop or both. Who cares. Whatever happens...happens.
- Smile more. I appeared way too serious in the '07 race photos. I believe there is no harm in a goofy grin. I will high-five more kids.
So you see, there's a bit of unfinished business. Despite the fact that I have not run much during the last 5 months every new step feels like new territory - again. As much as I struggle with form, stride, suffer heavy legs and burning lungs I realize that I've never been this mentally prepared to run the distance.
13 comments:
That's the spirit!
See you @ Bluenose. :)
Good job on the mighty plan...yup, we are all here behind you, no matter what, we listen, we challenge, we slap you on the head...hey, you'd do the same for me!!!
I like your attitude!
With that great attitude you will have a blast! It's all about the journey - from training through to running the race.
Sounds like a plan to me!
I had the same experience during my first marathon. I was going very well and on target for a sup 3:30 at 19.5 miles. Then I fell and every muscle in both legs seemed to cramp up. I was told by others to stop and DNF but I walked and shuffled when I could to the finish. I plan to do my second one next May also.
I think it is possible to do all those things and still run a PR effort. Enjoy the journey.
I am all about goofy grins. Running is supposed to be our "recreation" for pete's sake!
Good for you! It's hard to finish a marathon and not get the time you wanted but you still finish a MARATHON! That's pretty extraordinary =) My first marathon was the best experience ever, smiling and thanking people for cheering. I meants business in the 2nd and that's when I lost it... crying at mile 20 etc.... not a pretty sight. So, I second the do not take it seriously.
You gotta be pretty strong training in the winter of NS!
BTW 3:53 is a KICK ASS TIME!! =) Your little speedster!
Hey, thanks for the note about JIM...very thoughtful! Yes, it is our daughter who has it. She was diagnosed at age2 and now at 3 she is doing better but still needs weekly injections of some hard core drugs. It sucks but participating in this event helps us do something about it!
Thanks again for the note :)
The fun attitude at races is quite contagious. Be careful, sometimes all the fun you have can lead to personal worsts in exchange for hilarity and good spirit to other runners. Is it really worth it??? :)
Ok, I just read Darrel's comments and it seems he is putting the pressure on you to do it all. No excuses, Robb! You can run a PR, laugh, high five, have fun, smile more and avoid the cramps.
So we are both starting marathon training soon, with a race in mind.
Cool.
It's your race, buddy. Run your race, your way.
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