I ran Nike Women's Half Marathon was this past weekend and I had a great time. My legs were heavy and tired but I finished in 2:04:33 and felt good with that. I got to spend the weekend with some awesome friends and teammates. A few pics to commemorate:
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| Firemen carrying me to |
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| 10th Anniversary Finishers Necklace |
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| My name was two-toned again, just like DC. |
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| Look familiar? We Run |
Remember that time I was going to run a marathon? You don't? Well there was that time in 2009 where I registered for Eugene Marathon and then switched to the half mid-race. Then there was that time I registered for a marathon and then switched to the half pre-race. Which time was that again? There was Vegas 2011, Long Beach 2012, Surf City 2013, Mountains To Beach 2013, Half-Moon Bay 2013 and Nike Women's Marathon 2013. Plus I am sure countless marathons that I never actually registered for.
I keep telling myself I want to run a sub 4:30 marathon. But do I? Clearly it's not that important to me. It's been 3 years since I ran my last marathon and I've only ever ran two marathons total. Compare that to 23 half-marathons, 12 triathlons, 7 relays...you get the idea. I could go back to each of those races and scrutinize where it went wrong but the truth is I already know. It never started. I never committed to the training or the race. I didn't respect the distance and thought I could squeak by without putting in the work. But the days of doing a marathon "just to finish" are over. I am improving, I am getting faster and I want that to show when I finally do one. I want to be proud of the outcome instead of just getting through.
The Pledge:
It's time to get this ass kicked into gear and make it a priority. FOR REAL. I am doing the Napa Valley Marathon on March 2nd. I am going to follow a 15 week training plan (following a week of recovery post Ragnar Vegas). I am going to Sub - 4:30. There is no option for a half with this race - that is not a coincidence. It's time to Rise & Shine.
Awesome! Can't wait to follow your training!
ReplyDeleteThanks Cecilia - I am excited to actually be training.
DeleteYay - go Kara! You'll go faster than 4:30, too.
ReplyDeleteYou can totally do it!!! 4:30 or BUST! You just have to set your mind to it!! You have to find a training partner...I dare you to find one as good as me...maybe just faster!! :)
ReplyDeleteExcited for you -- I'm sure you can run a sub-4:30! I have heard so many good things about this race!
ReplyDeleteWant to do it with me? I mean since it's a local race and all:)
DeleteI want to do a Napa race...that sounds like so much fun!
ReplyDeleteI should check my calendar : )