On Cloud Nine

Boston Run To Remember Half Marathon....

So far this season I've run a 5k and competed in the Hopkinton Season Opener Sprint Triathlon...so I thought, what's next? A Half Marathon of course. Well I had signed up, registered and paid the entry fee before I knew it and now I couldn't back out. I came across a 12 week training plan by Hal Higdon and followed it to a tee. I was shocked when I did my last long run and realized I had actually run 12 miles.....and lived!!!

Race day came and I woke up thinking of ways to back out, but I knew I couldn't quit. I had spent so much time and effort training and heck I made it to 12 miles, what's one more? I researched fuel and hydration strategies and practice them on my long runs. I followed the plan and had no issues during the race. At the sound of the horn I took off, slowly, and found it took 11 and a half minutes to complete the first mile...a little off my 10 minute mile goal. I spent the first 3 miles following a pair of bright pink sneakers and just focusing on them. Then I turned my attention to reading the backs of peoples shirts, getting lost in my breathing, hydrating and trying to tell myself that I did NOT have to use a port-a-potty. Before I knew it I was at the turn around point. I felt great, energetic and was actually enjoying this experience.

The view of Boston coming back was spectacular, the breeze was heavenly and Elvis was keeping me company. I hit 10 miles and thought...just a 5k left...I am going to finish this race. I hit mile 11 and something strange happened...my legs started going faster almost as if I was not in control of them. I was running to beat of New Kids On The Block(remind me to thank them for bringing me over the finish line) I just kept replaying the song over and over until I saw that big blue finish banner. BAM!! Just like that, it was all over. I proudly took my finisher medal and slung it around my neck, puffed out my half-marathon running chest and chowed down on the best bagel ever made. I was quick to throw back a recovery drink and relax into a nice stretch session. When I checked my actual time I was thrilled to see that, despite a slow first mile, I met my goal...running an average 9.29 minute miles and finishing just over 2 hours.

Well, I have to admit...I enjoyed it and would certainly run that distance again. And now that full Marathon is taunting me. I may let him hang a year or so, but with the right training and attitude...I may just answer his call. Never quit, train smart and answer your call! Good Luck!

Road Race Anyone???

Hi Ladies,

Hope you're all well and looking forward to a fun season! Lots of great races out there, here is one a little closer to home....

February 10, 2008 (Sunday)27th Annual Paddy Kelly Road RaceBrockton, MA 11:00AM Harrys Westgate Pub and Grill, 65 Westgate Lane (A 5 mile course run through DW Field Park.)Contact: Susan and Tom Yellope (Colonial Road Runners), USA, 30127. 1-774-240-4622 paddykelly@colonialrunners.org> Yahoo! Maps > Register Now > Race Results

Anyone interested in joining me? I do not enjoy running in the cold, but I figure I'll be nice and toasty by mile 2!

Brenda

Welcome Team Yummy Mummies

Hi Girls,

Who out there is ready to start training? And who is member at the Y? Anyone up for some early morning swim workouts??

Brenda