As spring arrived, I enjoyed limited success, and with the advent of summer -- the most deliciously mild summer known to these parts of the Midwest -- I found my groove. I think I topped out at about eight miles which thrilled me to no end. As the fall approached, I realized myself to be a fair-weather runner and had come to despise the monotony of the treadmill. I continued my other exercise addictions, but most certainly lost my stride.
Wasabi surprised me by running a half-marathon last November and planted a seed of desire within me to tackle the same distance. Then in January, Casey suggested I shoot for Hospital Hill in June. A long way off, I put the date in my head and knew when the seasons turned friendlier, I'd dust off my running shoes and see how many miles they could take my legs.
So I hit the streets once again. And it felt great. I quickly upped my mileage and found myself in the nine mile range with little woe. About ten days ago, I did almost 11 and knew I was ready for my first official run.
So after juggling studying and kids and race prep yesterday, I woke early this morning, enjoyed my traditional pre-run breakfast of cappuccino, Greek yogurt and steel cut oats then drove to Crown Center where I meandered about, looking for a place to stretch (my home routine involves the sink -- don't ask). Never quite got that done...found some water and before I knew it, was herded into a corral where 2388 others and myself began our long morning run. I can't even begin to explain how exhilarating it was to see the mass of dedicated runners filling the downtown streets.

As I crested the last big hill, Tina Turner belted out Proud Mary, providing yet another powerful surge of energy, and as that song ended, I could hear the loudspeaker from the finish line, took out my headphones and gave the last couple hundred yards my all. Official time 2:08:08 -- smidge better than my usual ten minute mile. But that really didn't matter. I did it. 13.1 miles.

4 comments:
"running away from myself via exercise"
Not true. Finding yourself. And what a great perspective you express.
I am SOOO proud of you!! Congratulations!!
Awesome post! Congrats on the accomplishment, now it's time for your 13.1 tattoo.
Wasabi
Not only should you be proud of yourself for the 13.1 miles but for this beautifully written post. Be proud.
Post a Comment