I signed up for this race as a confidence builder for my very first half marathon in May. If I could make 10 miles without stopping, at altitude, surely I can run 13.1 miles in Iowa.
The forecast was grim, 40' and rainy. And it did rain on and off the whole time. It was manageable. Not terrible. The rain and weather gave me something to think about as my internal dialog with myself continued over 10 miles.
It is amazing what one thinks about while running. I wish there was a way to capture all the places my head goes as I am sticking one foot in front of the other over and over again.
Here we go!
I am going to hang by the back and stay out of the professional runner's way.
Geesh. Good for her. That lady must be 70 that just passed me.
Did I miss the first mile marker?
There it is. It's raining.
I like that house.
Oh no, I should have peed one more time.
Ohhh that's a cute patio furniture ideas.
Wait?!?! Only 1 mile in? Oh man....
Okay I have to pee. If that porta potty is open I am going for it.
So glad I peed.
It stopped raining.
I can't believe how many police offers they staffed for this.
It's raining again, harder I think.
How is that girl running in 40' rainy weather in shorts and a tank top?
Good lord her legs and arms are beat red.
She MUST be freezing.
Spring blossoms already.
Uggg a hill.
Yes! I rock at hills!
I need to train for more hills for the Half.
I need to sign up for the Half.
Mile 5!
Oh look the fast runners are on mile 8.
S#*% I am only half way and they are going to be done in like 18 minutes.
Shot Blocks. Interesting.
Only a couple more miles!
I am so glad I got new shoes.
I think I can actually finish a half.
I am starting to pass people!
I can't believe I am still going!
Where is that darn mile marker 9?
There it is! The finish line!
I am sprinting this baby home!
Finally! Crossed the finish line.
OMG I just ran 10 miles!
I felt pretty good throughout the race. Better than I ever imagined. I started this journey fully accepting that I would have to run/walk my first half marathon. But to tell you the truth, I think I can actually run the whole thing! This race was exactly what I needed for my confidence.
While I anticipated that it would take me about 2:30 minutes to complete the race, I was pleasantly surprised to see I finished in 2:08 minutes! 12:50 minute mile average. Not too shabby for the girl who never ran.
It has been so awesome to tackle this journey with one of my very oldest friends. Vega has been an inspiration and the best support system as we train together. Just two moms, attempting our goals together for the first time. A way to get out of the house, clear our minds, finally lose that baby weight, catch up on life and celebrate a friendship of 29 years.
I am ready! Bring on the Half!
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