What a difference a year makes…
This time last year, the entry in my running log read “Looks like Marine Corps is almost an impossibilty now. There’s been no improvement with the IT band and my only hope is to start the race and try to hobble through the pain”.
Actually, I didn’t attempt the marathon. I picked up my race number and other goodies at the expo, but once back at the hotel room decided I’d be a fool to even try and start the race. Looking back, it was probably the best thing that could have happened. Several weeks of little or no running was as much good for me mentally as it was physically. After following Allyson around DC in her quest for marathon #6 (on the Metro I might add!), I set several goals in my mind for the following year.
Number one was just to get some consistent running under my belt in the hope of building a good base.
Number two was to try and PR at the Shamrock Marathon in March 06.
Number three was to go back to DC next year and try again.
So, with a couple of days to go to the Marine Corps Marathon, I find myself in good form and with everything going for me it seems. Lifetime PR’s at the mile, 5k, 8k, Half Marathon and Marathon in this my 40th year have given me a huge boost of confidence. I can’t seem to do anything wrong at the moment and am hopeful for another big PR on Sunday. Of course, I know the marathon is one of the toughest events you can race and I’m not taking anything for granted. All I can do is go out at goal pace (6:30 per mile) and try to hold on as long as I can.
I do owe a lot to my family and friends for their constant support and encouragement. Knowing they’ll be rooting for me is a big boost and also knowing Allyson will be out there once again for marathon #7 is a huge motivator. Conditions look perfect for Sunday and I have to say I’m feeling pretty good too. Watch this space to see how I get on…
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