Half Marathon – Run Read Repeat

Frederick Half Marathon Race Recap

Amazing photo my friend took at the finish

After a long hiatus it seems as though we are returning to racing in person! I say this after having two in person races in just over a month. With the ten-mile race last month I made a variety of rookie mistakes. Things I knew better about doing or not doing. I didn’t taper, heck I didn’t even cut back my miles leading up to the race and somehow I expected to have fresh legs. I didn’t hydrate nearly enough before, during or after the race. So this time around I made a conscious effort BEFORE the race to do ALL THE RIGHT THINGS. I legitimately tapered, cutting back my mileage the week to ten days before the race. Ask any runner what one of the hardest things is about racing…it’s the taper. I made sure to hydrate nearly all week and eliminated wine. I wanted to feel my best to have my best race.

In racing there are things you can control and things that are beyond your control. The Frederick Running Festival was supposed to happen in May. Due to Covid restrictions that were still in place at that time it wasn’t possible for the race to happen then, so it got bumped to July. Maryland in July doesn’t really offer the very best conditions for racing. The heat and humidity have the ability to be debilitating. After the June ten miler, when I was clearly overheated and dehydrated, I knew I couldn’t control the weather but I could control how I made the most of the weather.

I invested in a new hydration vest for starters. It was lighter weight and had flasks in the front of the vest. I found this much more comfortable to wear and more breathable. This also allowed me to carry significantly more water. Further, the ease of the straws almost forced me to drink more along the route. Not going to lie, we got incredibly lucky with the weather. I say that but it was still 70 with 93% humidity at the 6:30 AM start time. So while better than what it could have been it was still a bit toasty. I’d rather run in the 30 degree weather any day of the week!

This was my first half marathon in person race since February of 2020, so 17 months. In that time I’ve been doing a lot of distance running and heck ran my first Marathon. But, let me tell you something- the more races I run, the more pressure I put on myself for a faster or better time. It’s really unrealistic because so much goes into a race time including the course, conditions. Unless you are comparing apples to apples you can’t make a true comparison. I set myself up all week to have a slower race. Heck, I even told my cheering section- hubby and two boys that I was expecting to a slower race and just wanted to finish. Anyone who knows me know that I could have said that over and over again until the cows come home and deep down I’m still competitive with myself and possibly set unreasonable expectations.

Is it possible to race without a flat lay?? Missing from this photo my hydration vest and Huma Gels.

We stayed over in Frederick the night before, which cut down on travel time on race day. Since my oldest son’s friend’s father was also running we all made a weekend of it. It’s been fun to share racing with someone else and the kids and spouses have each other as they wait for us to finish.

Let’s review my previous in person half marathons. My first, was the Baltimore Half in October of 2019. Truly my goal was to finish- but really my goal was for a sub two time. I managed that with time to spare finishing 1:58:18. The weather conditions were ideal, crisp Fall day and the adrenaline of having never run a half marathon before. Up next was the Disney Princess Half Marathon. The weather was unseasonable cool in Florida in February 2020. My kind of weather. There I had a finish of 1:54:34. That time included a very unfortunate need to go to the bathroom which easily added two minutes to my time. So what was I really going to be happy with for this Half Marathon. As much as I said time didn’t matter, it did. I still needed to come in under 2 hours to be satisfied.

I knew that I needed to slow my 8:30 a mile pace down a bit to accommodate for the heat and humidity. But in traditional fashion I took the first 3-4 miles too fast. The course was relatively flat, there was a light rain that would turn into even crazier humidity- think you can see the air kind of humidity and there was the excitement of an in person race. By about mile five however, I was overheated and questioning my sanity. Why exactly did I think running long races was a good idea?? I needed to get out of my head about time and focus on finishing. There is something to be said for knowing that your husband and kids are at the finish line waiting for you. Ask them, they want nothing more than to see me finish and couldn’t care less how long it takes me to run. I am my own worst enemy.

I needed this long run in a bad way. Tapering came at a particularly stressful time. Wednesday before the race, I was offered the job I had applied for a few months back. This was great news and I was super excited. However, it was a quick turn around and I was starting Monday. As in the day after the race and five days after being offered the job. The logistics of making sure the boys were covered and I was going to have the flexibility for drop off and pick up- days off that I needed etcetera were completely stressing me out. So yes, I needed 13.1 miles to run, think and settle myself down.

Running longer races is like riding a roller coaster. So much excitement to start, then usually a questioning of sanity, followed by a I do this for those that can’t, to really three miles to go to I’VE GOT THIS! On this hot day in Frederick I was very grateful for the folks who were handing out bottles of water. While I had plenty to drink I appreciated being able to pour some over my head to cool my internal temperature. As with every race, I dug deep, I channeled my why and I pushed to the end. Interestingly enough the end of the race was on the horse track at the Frederick Fairgrounds. It was literally like running in wet sand to finish-but as is my tradition I called to say I was heading into the back side of the Fairgrounds and that I would see them soon. I finished in 1:56:46. So basically right in the middle of my two previous times. Given the heat and humidity this was definitely a win. And you know what I felt way better after I finished, a good run was truly what I needed.

How do the number shake out? 323/1412 total runners. Not too shabby. 13/91 woman in the 40-44 age range. Overall a very solid run with lots learned along the way. 1) the new hydration vest is a total win, 2) I truly need to keep my pace slower as I prepare to begin training for the NYC Marathon and 3) there’s nothing quite like the runner’s high when you finish a race!

Coming soon- How July was my lowest mileage month and I’m OK with that and Going Back to Work- still making the time to exercise each morning!

Note to self- trail running isn’t the same as road running

Twenty-twenty the year of COVID. The year of racing being canceled. The year of trying new things. Since March running races has been purely in the virtual realm. While you still get to compete (seemingly after the fact when everyone’s times are posted), it’s not really the same experience as running a true race. So when the opportunity presented itself to run a REAL in person race I was on it. Originally, I believed the course to be some trail and some road. I can do that- I thought. What’s a little bit of trail??

Friends the switch from road running to trail running IS A BIG DEAL!! It was a wave start. Twenty five people to a wave, wearing masks waiting to start the race. The temperature almost 80 with 91% humidity. Amazing. I did the ice trick under my hat…as in I filled my hat with ice and put it on my head. It worked for a bit, but was no where close to doing the trick to cool me down. And we are off. To start is a flat gravel like path before we hit the woods. As a group we went out faster than I would normally pace myself, but there was the adrenaline of a real race pushing me along. Then we hit the trail. Hold the phone- I’m supposed to run on this??

This was the entire trail, but only narrower. Oh wait if it wasn’t full of tree roots it looked like this:

What in the world had I been thinking??? So I haven’t run trails in 25 years and I sign up for a trail Half Marathon. Clearly COVID made me crazy!! I had so many thoughts while I was running and looking down at every step I took so I didn’t roll an ankle or fall. 1) What in the world is a good mile pace vs. a road pace? 2) There’s a 10K option, one loop instead of two you should really think about that. 3) If I get hurt running this race, I won’t be able to train and run my marathon this fall.

For the first two miles I was literally just trying to get my bearings, regulate my breathing and heart rate. Around mile three and a half my left foot landed funny and I nearly took a dive. My wonderful husband was sending me supportive texts from him and the boys. I couldn’t even look at them because that would mean not looking at my feet. So this was definitely way harder than I thought. Here I’m wearing my Never Give Up bracelet and seriously considering giving up. But is it giving up when it’s really the safe call so as to not get hurt??

Well, the two sides of my brain contemplated this as I continued through the woods. Finally, I stopped to walk to catch my breath. The kind woman behind me stopped to make sure I was OK. Runners support other runners in an amazing way and I was reminded of the sense of community! While I wasn’t really OK, I knew I was going to be. I took out my phone, texted my husband and said “I’m calling it at the half way point. I’m fine. But I’d like to stay that way.” As if to seal the deal it started pouring shortly thereafter. I finished or did I? Does this count as a DNF? I imagine if there was no 10K one loop option I would have plugged along and actually finished, but notified the race organizers that I had made the shift from Half Marathon to 10K and made my way to the car.

I was HOT but relieved that I wouldn’t have to make that second loop. Could I have done it? Yes. It wasn’t the distance that was the issue. It was the terrain. I was not truly prepared for the un-level ground. And it was the fact that staying healthy for the marathon is more important to me. On the post race drive home I had some more time to think. Whenever I’ve trained for a race that race was super important to me. Today’s race was something I did because it was there but deep down didn’t really mean anything to my overall running goals. Before COVID hit, I had the whole year mapped out and I can tell you with great certainty that the Bear Trail Half Marathon was not on that list of must do race.

While I was at peace with my decision, I wasn’t expecting so many questions from the boys when I got home. What do you mean you didn’t finish? Aren’t you sad? Aren’t you disappointed? I thought you said, we never give up? Man, my fan club was being pretty rough on me. But this was an important teaching moment. We talked about it. We talked about safety being number one. We talked about how we have to have priorities and that sometimes that means making hard choices to focus on those priorities. Hello, I didn’t go to law school to be a stay at home mom- but they are my priority and it’s ok for focuses to shift!

Ready for the kicker?? Remember how I said I had no idea what was a “good time?” Apparently my time, while I was sucking wind wasn’t so bad. I finished as the 9th overall female out of 81 and 2nd in my age category of 19 runners. PS the age category was 30-39 and I’m the old lady in the age category. So apparently for my first trail race I did better than I thought.

Needless to say, you won’t find me running trail again any time soon. If you need me I’ll be running loops around the neighborhood or on the treadmill!

Happy running!

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Planning your Princess Half Weekend

Photo credit rundisney.com

Last year I watched in awe as a group network marketing friends shared their experience at the Disney World Princess Half Marathon weekend. I was determined to run with them the following year, meaning February 2020. Translation later this week!! But if you are new to RunDisney like I was, the process was a little overwhelming. If you aren’t familiar with the various RunDisney races they SELL OUT!! So for me this added to my want to race anxiety and to get registered and reserve a room early.

So what did I do?? I did what I thought made the most sense. I stalked the website for when hotel rooms would become available to make reservations. I learned you could make reservations by phone 499 days before for a room only. Score. So I called and reserved my room. I figured I was half way there. Easy, breezy.

June 4 was the magical day that registration for the Princess Half weekend opened. I sat down at my computer at the appointed time and you guessed it, I sat in the queue. My friend, sat in the queue. We texted with our anxiety. What if one of us got in and the other didn’t?? After what literally seemed like forever I was able to complete my registration.

It all worked out right? I got registered for the race. I secured a room at a very good rate. I was able to add park tickets and photo pass and all of those things. But why did I give myself extra stress?? Well, because I didn’t really know the system. I thought I knew but I didn’t. So here’s what you can learn from me and avoid the same stress.

What if I told you that you could secure your race bib for the 2021 Princess Half Marathon during the Half Marathon weekend THIS YEAR??! Say what?? Right, it really doesn’t have to be as complicated as I made it out to be. So did you know that there are select Travel Agents that are registered with Disney? They basically have magical powers. Not only can they plan a fabulous Disney vacation for you and your family/friends, but they can also secure race bibs a year out. Or any time during that year before while supplies last. What does that mean?? That means that during the Princess Half Marathon Weekend an agent registered with Disney could call and register you for the race for next year. (Bib fee due in full at the time of booking) So if you are having some serious FOMO watching everyone run this year. Book now for 2021.

What else can they do?? They can also book a room, that can be turned into a package and any promotions that are announced later can be applied when applicable. ($200 deposit due at the time of booking) You also get all the perks of a Travel Agent, such as: guidance in planning, suggestions for schedule, making your dinner and Fast Pass Reservations and trouble shooting any problems that might come up. I know, I know, you can do it all on the internet by yourself. Believe me, I’ve done it…you know 3:00 AM while nursing a baby trying to make dining reservations for TEN PEOPLE. It’s doable but again it’s more stress for you. But if you prefer to do all your own reservations for meals and Fast Passes, etcetera that’s okay too. The Travel Agent’s services are there if you choose to utilize them but you aren’t required to do so.

This sounds too good to be true- what does it cost??? There’s no additional cost to you!! That’s right. You don’t pay any more and you get first rate service from a Disney Registered Travel Agent.

Who can I contact to plan my next trip??? Well, I’ll be using my friend Meghan Campbell the next time for sure!! All this serious Mom Guilt about going to Disney without my family has me thinking hard about a Spring Break trip next year. You can find her over on Facebook or send her an email.

So learn from my stress, contact Meghan today to make the planning as Magical as the trip to Disney!

Ultimate RunDisney Packing Guide!

Call me crazy, but I love to pack for a trip. Unpacking, not so much but packing is my jam. Why?? It involves lists and organizing. This is my wheel house!! Let’s start with some general packing tips:

1) Use packing cubes! Packing cubes have been a game changer in my packing. Each family member has their own color. Which means we can share luggage when we travel because we know whose stuff is who by just looking at the color of the packing cube. There are a couple of different ways to utilize packing cubes:

Pack each day in a packing cube. What does that mean? Everything you need for that day- top, bottom, undergarments, socks, shoes.
Group items together in a packing cube. For example, all socks in one cube, underwear in another cube, shirts in one, etc. This is the method I utilize when packing.

2) Make a list! No really, make a list. Even if it’s a trip you’ve packed for previously it’s helpful to have a list. This doesn’t mean you have to recreate the list each time. For example, we travel fairly frequently with our two boys. We’ve traveled since they were babies. I had a master packing list so as to not forget simple things. That’s what prompted me to create a master packing list for the Princess Half Marathon Weekend.

3) Lay everything out BEFORE you start packing! In order to maximize space when packing and to make sure you don’t forget anything it’s helpful to lay everything out and then begin packing.

When it came time to pack for the Princess Half Marathon weekend 2020 I was determined to carry on only. It’s rare that I travel alone and I wanted to keep it simple. I should note that I factored in that I will likely acquire a few things at the Expo and souvenirs for my kids along the way. So I also packed an empty bag inside my larger carry on bag just in case I could get everything back in for the return trip. While this trip will involve a flight for me I gained some running packing experience when we traveled to the Baltimore Half Marathon in October. So without further ado here’s my Ultimate Run Disney Packing list:

A list of must have items for a trip to Disney to run a race.

Let’s break down the packing list just a bit:

Race Items

Running Shoes: You should plan for one pair of shoes for each race you are running. Why?? Well, weather is one factor. No one wants to start a race in shoes that are wet. Unforeseen issues with your shoes are another reason. Even though you shouldn’t race in overly worn shoes…things happen. My go to running shoes are:

New Balance Women’s 1080v10 Fresh Foam Running Shoe.

PS you should only be using your running shoes for running so plan to bring another pair for in the parks!!

Socks: Here I’m suggesting two pairs for each day. Why?? Again I’m thinking about Florida and the potential for rain. So if the weather is calling for rain I would wear one pair and keep the other pair in my gear check bag or in my waist belt. Then change to a dry pair right before the race starts.

Sports Bra: My hands down favorite sports bra is the All Star Bra from Zyia Active. I’m planning to travel in one and have packed one for each race day. Stylish, supportive and non-chafing you couldn’t possible ask for anything more from your sports bra.

Costume/Running Clothes: Keep in mind that you shouldn’t wear anything new on race day. Test any costume or running gear your plan to wear before race day. When it came to planning my racing outfits I opted for Disney inspired tanks from Raw Threads (use the link for 20% off your first order!) I went with a Mary Poppins Tank for the Half Marathon and Toy Story- Buzz and Woody for the 10K!!

Raw Threads is usually at the Expo so you can check them out there if you haven’t decided on your race day gear. Another important thing to keep in mind is that the Florida weather can be tricky regarding temperature and humidity. The long range forecast has changed at least three time in the last week. So I’ve planned a variety of bottom choices to go with my tanks. In an abundance of caution I have two bottoms planned and packed for each day. My absolute favorite running shorts: the Mesh Energy Shorts from Zyia Active. These are my go to for all warm weather running. Breathable, comfortable and chafe free!! I’ve run multiple races in the Mesh Energy Shorts and couldn’t be happier. But since the races go off at 5:30 in the morning I’ve also packed my go to running tights Pocket Light n Tight Capris from Zyia Active. I’ve previously run several races including a Half Marathon in capri length light n tights so I know that they are also a dependable choice. I actually prefer them because I prefer to keep my phone in the pocket, rather than in my waist pack. But that’s just my personal preference.

Water/Fuel Belt Truth be told, I would rather not have to run and carry my own water and/or fuel. But if I have to wear a belt the Spibelt Running Belt is my go too. I’ve added an additional pocket to mine. So I wear one in the back and one in front. The idea behind this is to keep those items that you won’t need at all during the race in one. i.e. ID, phone, insurance cards, cash, credit card. Then put items you will want to access in the other pouch such as race nutrition, tissues, chapstick.

Race Fuel: This is another thing you want to test out before race day. While you would imagine something could upset your stomach you would be surprised!! During your training experiment with different kinds of fuel to get a sense of what gives you the boost you need during your run. My favorites are from Honey Stinger. While they offer a variety of items from waffles, to gels, the gummy chews are my favorite.

Phone/Device for Music: I know many say that you should enjoy the sights and sounds of a race without music. But I personally need music to keep me moving!

Headphones: While training I alternate between Aftershokz for outdoor runs and AirPods for indoor runs, race day calls for Aftershokz all the way. You can truly hear what’s going on around you while at the same time enjoying your music. While the concept of sitting outside your ear appears strange at first the sound is still incredible and again I can’t stress the importance of being aware of the people around you to stay safe during a race.

GPS Watch/Charger: I’m slightly obsessed with keeping track of my time, pace and heart rate during a run. My first device for running was my Apple Watch. I wear it every day all day. So it’s natural that I would also use that for tracking my runs. But then I also started running more and wanted additional analytics. So it’s possible that I run with my AppleWatch on one wrist and my Garmin on the other. Whatever your preference don’t forget your watch and charger!

Small Bag/Backpack: While you will get a clear plastic bag at the start of the Expo. I prefer to bring my own small bag or backpack to make it easier to store items as I collect them and to keep my hands free.

Foam Roller: Since I’m opting for carry on only. I’m breaking this rule a little bit. Rather than bring my larger foam roller, I’m bringing my Foot Roller/Massager instead. I’m hoping this will do the trick until I get home and I can foam roll!

Post Race Shoes: After a race I cannot wait to take off my sweaty socks and shoes!! It’s not so much that they hurt as much as they just want some fresh air!! Olukai Women’s Sandal are in my post race gear bag for warm weather races. They are supportive and kind to my post race feet!!

Light Jacket: I generally try to avoid running in the rain at all costs. But we can’t guarantee that race day will be dry. While if it’s a really bad rain nothing is going to truly keep you dry, I’d like to do my very best for a light rain. So I’ve added the White Bomber Jacket from Zyia Active to my bag. Lightweight and breathable with strategic ventilation this will get it done for a light rain. Plus it doubles as a light jacket for the parks.

Visor/Headbands/Hair Tie: So I don’t usually run with a hat because it makes me overheat. However, I wear glasses and back to my rain contingency plan I’ve packed a visor with the thought that the brim will help keep the rain out of my face and the fact that it’s a visor and not a hat will cut down on the overheating. My hair is really too short to pull into a pony tail so I opt for headbands when I’m running. I picked up some cute one from Sweaty Bands before heading to Disney. PS they will be at the Expo!!

Ziploc: Seem random? Never leave home without some baggies. Why?? Back to my apparent obsession with the rain. Put your phone in a baggie to keep it dry during the race. Need to ice after the race?? Make yourself an Icepack. Don’t want to fight with the package for your race nutrition put them in a baggie. See…you need to pack baggies!!

Body Glide/Vaseline: Truth be told I have not yet had to use body glide or Vaseline when I’ve run. Then why is it on my list. Yup, just in case of rain you know I’ll be coating my feet in Body Glide in a valiant effort to avoid blisters!!

Miscellaneous/Disney Specific items These are pretty self explanatory and many of the same things you would pack for a non-running Disney trip. As a mom, I must travel with snacks even if my children aren’t with me so I’ve of course added snacks to my bag. My water bottle is attached to me at all times. As hydration is key I’ll be sure to bring it along. In addition to water I enjoy Arbonne Fizz for a pick me up and PhytoSport for before, during and after my run.

The key to packing is to be organized, while bringing the necessities without overpacking. It’s a very delicate balance. Happy Running and safe travels!!

12 Miles isn’t a Half Marathon- Baltimore Run Fest 13.1- October 19, 2019

The day after I finished the Charles Street 12 a friend said “how about we run the Baltimore Half Marathon?” I paused and thought then reached out to my friend Suzy Goodwin (She has an amazing Podcast. If you don’t know her you should!! http://runliftmompod.com). In addition to being a friend, she’s my go to for my running questions among other things! The question this time: “is seven weeks between big races too soon?? Should I run a half in October?” The resounding response: “Absolutely!” That was all I needed to hear.

The plan: A reverse taper. Basically the week after the Charles Street 12 I would have a week of active recovery. What does that mean?? It means I didn’t run for a few days- four to be exact but I continued with my training sessions twice that week. The following week I picked up with my running. I ran three miles a few times that week, then I took my ten week plan and backed into it from the October 19 race date. And the training continued. As the mileage increased I started to have some serious right hip pain. I worked with the trainer and we determined that my hamstrings are VERY tight. We continue to work on the hamstrings, foam rolling and stretching.

Race Weekend

Despite the 12 mile run just weeks before this race was different. It was a huge running festival with a 5K, Half Marathon, Marathon and Relay. There were going to be thousands of runners. So it was a BIG DEAL. The unknown in regards to logistics makes me nervous. So my first big race made me full of nerves. We decided that rather than get everyone up crazy early on race day we would stay down town in Baltimore at a hotel right near the start of the race. So we packed up our two boys ages 4 and 6 and our mini-Goldendoodle, Ruby and turned race day into being tourists in our own city. Earlier in the day I ventured down town with my oldest to go to the Expo. We were both excited and took in all the sights and sounds. I got my t-shirt, bib, along with a few extra goodies along the way! Yes, I stocked up on Honey Stingers and some race specific Pandora.

Picture with Blue the Crab while waiting for the expo to open

That night we went down before dinner. Got settled…yes everyone and the dog. The boys thought it was amazing to stay in a hotel so close to home. We enjoyed an early dinner and went to bed early too. But I slept TERRIBLY. Much of it was nervousness. Much of it was a dog who was used to traveling years ago and isn’t used to hearing sounds during the night that are part of staying in a hotel. But the major plus was waking up and being able to just be at the start of the race. You could literally see it from our hotel.

Race Day

Did you race if you didn’t do a flat lay??? The weather in Maryland can be unpredictable in October. Let’s be real, it is always unpredictable. I had originally planned to wear shorts but then the temperature was such that it was going to be in the forties so I switched to capri pants. Again, after consulting my good friend Suzy when I had a wardrobe panic moment. So here you see some of my running favorites. My go to running gear is from Zyia Active (https://www.myzyia.com/KELLYBLAVATT/) Stay tuned for a dedicated blog post all about my love of Zyia and why I became a rep. But you can see I went with capri running tights, a supportive sports bra, tank and a head band. You’ll also see I wore a “throw down” long sleeve shirt at the start of the race that I quickly discarded.

The tricky thing for me for race morning was the start time. I’m a rise with the sun or before for the sun and run kind of runner as I try to get my run done before the boys are even awake. With the other races happening that weekend the Half Marathon didn’t go off until 10:00 AM. I ate my normal pre-run meal which at the time consisted of Kind Peanut Butter Bar and a banana along with some water but worried about how the later start would change my performance.

Right before the start of the race. All smiles but truly full of nerves!

The time came to head to the start of the race. As you can see it was a beautiful sunny day. It was cool, but as I would quickly learn not quite as cool as I thought it was going to be. My husband and boys walked me to the starting line. At that point there were races still going on around as. The half marathon would meet up with the marathon and marathoners were coming through the streets surrounding the start. So my support team wished me well and went for their own walk and to occupy themselves while they waited for my return. As has happened with every race I’ve ever run, I then had to go to the bathroom again, despite having just gone. The line for the porta potties was ABSURD. So I ran back to the hotel and used the restrooms there. Before I knew it, it was go time!

Running and racing is just as much mental as it is physical. If you are like me and run by yourself (I actually enjoy it!) you have A LOT of time to think and talk to yourself. You also have the ability to get into your head. I had told my trainer my goal was for a sub two hour half. Based upon my time at the Charles Street 12 just seven weeks before he wasn’t so confident that was a realistic goal. I knew my average mile had to be less than 9:20. I also knew that I had to consistently keep that pace. I was also having serious mom guilt. I had packed up my family for a night away from home. They were walking around keeping themselves occupied so that I could run 13.1 miles…for fun. I didn’t want to disappoint them. Really, I wasn’t disappointing them. They could care less what time I finished, it was me that would be disappointed. Right before they went off to explore I joked with my husband…you know they are going to have someone here to engrave your medal with your time. “You should do it,” he said. My response…”only if it’s a sub 2 hour time.” That’s just to give you some sense of the self imposed pressure.

But I digressed. The race was hillier than expected. And the temperatures warmed up more than expected as well. It was still far from hot. But I felt good. In the final weeks of training I had been dealing with some serious hip pain. Fortunately the taper time allowed it to feel better and I was feeling good during the race. Some runners can run by feel- some need to monitor their watch. I fall into the monitor my watch camp. With each passing mile split, I knew I was still on target for a sub-two hour finish. But I also knew not to count my chickens before they hatched. I kept pounding the pavement, hydrating as best I could at the water stops, popping my Honey Stinger Chews every four to five miles. I also kept looking around to see how the City had come out to support the runners. There were so many supporters with signs, water and spirit willing us on. There were also the messages from family and friends that were popping up on my watch cheering me on what sometimes felt like a silly endeavor.

The night before when we drove down to the hotel we saw a sign for Mile 12. Immediately following the mile marker was a huge hill. As we drove up it all I could think was oh man, that’s not going to be fun to run. But I was wrong, when I got to mile 12 I felt like I still had energy to give and I was ready to finish strong. Don’t get me wrong, I was hot and tired but I was ready to run hard and finish strong.

I’m not sure if you read my race recap on the Charles Street 12, but when I finished that race I was early and no one was really ready for me. So once I got up that monster hill following Mile Marker 12 I wiggled my cell phone out of my tights pocket and called my hubby’s cell. He answered and was clearly worried. “where are you?” Me: “I just passed mile marker 12, get ready to cheer me in.” You realize that it wasn’t so much for me that I needed to the cheering, as much as I knew the boys were anxiously waiting and had been patiently waiting that whole time. I also knew it was going to be much more crowded and I might not be able to spot them. So I wanted them to know I was on my way.

After the call, I looked at my watch, saw the time and then I just ran. I ran hard. I ran with all that I had and I finished strong. My final mile was forty seconds to a minute faster than every other mile of the race I worked hard for and I wanted that sub 2 hour time and I was going to get it.

The finish line came in sight. I tried so hard to find my cheering squad. While I didn’t see them, I knew they were there. And you know what- they did see me and cheer me on to a 1:58:18 finish.

There was a holding area just for runners after you finished. You got your medal, some water and fruit. I quickly got my medal, banana and water. The plan was for Jeff and the boys to meet me right outside the running holding area. I waited, enjoying my water and banana then I saw them. The boys running towards me yelling “Mommy, you did it!” While I was certainly proud of my race, I was so proud that they were there to see me do it and support me. To think I had suggested just going myself was crazy. We’ve now made running a family event!

By nature of it being my first half marathon it was a personal record (PR). But since I also beat my goal time I felt the need to ring the bell. You could not wipe that smile off my face!! So yes, I most definitely got my medal engraved.

So how did the numbers play out for overall results:

There were 6903 runners in the half marathon. I finished 1378/6903.
There were 3724 female runners. I finished 449/3724.
There were 527 runners in my age category (35-39) I finished 60/527.

Race post script:

We went to a friends house for a party after the race. Yes, home, showered and party. That’s the way I roll. At the party I was chatting with a gentleman who said you will run a marathon. You’ll do a few more half marathons but then you’ll do a full marathon. Make sure you select which one carefully. Throughout the race when we met up with the marathoners all I kept thinking to myself was “I’m never going to run a marathon.” But wait just a second, I certainly would have never thought that I would run a half marathon, so maybe never say never?? More to come!