There were a lot of factors leading up to this race that made me wonder just how it would go.
First, my running/walking partner had to back out due to illness. So I was alone. Then, I disobeyed a lot of the rules of what not to do the night before, such as staying up way too late and drinking alcohol (not a lot, but still, you risk dehydration with that).
I also did not train properly for 9.3 miles. The most I have run recently is 5, but mostly 2-3 on average.
While this story has a happy ending, I still feel obligated to say: Don’t try this at home.
Sunday morning, I woke up at 5:30 a.m. after having just gone to bed at 2. I had a late night PB&J sandwich when I got home from a friend’s house, so I wasn’t starving when I woke up, but I knew since it was a long race that I would need the fuel. So I had some frozen waffles with PB and banana. And coffee!
When I got to the course, I had to use the “facilities” which were just 4 port-a-potties with a line of about 50 people. I thought about backing out but I knew I’d feel better if I just did what I needed to do before I started running. So because of that, I started the race a little more than 4 minutes late, but that’s okay.
I had no agenda.
I didn’t know whether I would walk or run or for how long. I wore an iPod but not a watch. I ran when I thought I could run and slowed down when I needed to. I took walking breaks as necessary and hit all but one water stop along the way.
The course wasn’t much to look at but it was flat, which was a welcome break from all the hills I’ve been doing lately. I think that is why I was able to run more than I thought I could. I don’t know how people did the 30k though (you had the option of 15k or 30k), I can’t imagine repeating the same course twice.
I was glad they had mile markers for most of it (all but mile 6, I believe) because it helped me pace myself and realize how much longer I had to go.
For the first 7 miles, I ended up running most of the way, taking a 1 minute walking break after each mile. I used my iPod to gauge the time, basically when the third song started, I walked until the first chorus. Some songs have shorter verses than others but I’m sure it all averaged out.
Toward the end, I was taking more frequent walking breaks, at every song instead of every third song. Have you ever used something other than a watch to pace yourself?
When I saw the 9 mile marker, I knew it was time to finish strong. Even though my legs were starting to get tired and sore, I kept pushing and crossed the finish line, astounded that I had just run most of a 9.3 mile race.
It’s amazing how far your mind will take you (or in some cases hold you back).
Here are my stats for those who are interested:
- Distance: 9.3 miles
- Time: 1:54:39 (I started more than 4 minutes late! So really 1:50!)
- Avg. pace (based on official time): 12:18/mile
This race made me realize something else about myself: I am built for endurance, not speed.
As much as I like to challenge myself and beat PR’s, I think I am going to leave speed training to 5k races only. Once I go beyond 3 miles, I like to just settle in and enjoy the run, covering the distance regardless of time. Anyone else like that?
Because of this race, I am not at all nervous about the half marathon I have in a month now (which uses most of the same course). In fact, I’m hoping to get in a few more long runs before then, now that I know I have it in me! 🙂
I took a nice epsom salt bath when I got home, had a little nap and also did this for a while:
But I was also sure not to rest too much and get up and move around some too, which was easy since we had a friend’s birthday party to attend yesterday afternoon. I have found that helps keep me from getting too sore and I am feeling pretty good today thanks to these measures (and some Advil, ha ha).
I also did some yoga moves that a friend shared with me to stretch out my legs and hip flexors. My hips give me more trouble when I walk but it’s still a good stretch to do for prevention of tight muscles!
Have you ever surprised yourself during a race or in another fitness venture? How did it make you feel?
This is so awesome, Sarah! I am so proud of you! I would love to run a 15K, it seems like the perfect mid-distance…and what a great training run for your half! Isn’t it great when you accomplish something and amaze yourself? Great indeed.
I love the tip on using songs for training. I’ve done that before, too, saying “OK, I’m going to sprint for the chorus.” or “I’m going to walk this song then run again.” It breaks it up and keeps it interesting, especially when you have great songs!
Great job, girl! Keep it up!
You did such a great job honey!!!! I can’t wait for the day that I can run for atleast 6 miles but I know with you in my corner, I will eventually do it!
You are a rockstar…your determination amazes me, EVERY DAY!
(love the header)
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Sarah this is awesome! Congrats on an amazing race! I love that you took an epsom salt bath and utilized the frozen foods as much as possible. 😀 I love epsom salts too!
Thanks Andrea! 🙂
I am just getting into racing. I have signed up for my first 1/2 marathon in February and I am nervous but excited. My goal is just to finish.
That’s awesome Debbie! I think the first one is the best because you really have few expectations…just to finish. It’s a great experience and I hope it goes very well for you! 🙂
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