First 1/2 marathon in 44 hrs!

KatWood

I can't believe it is almost here. Over a years worth of training has been leading up to race day. I am so excited. I'm really not even nervous about the race. I am more nervous about making sure I get there on time and that I sleep well the night before. I guess being nervous about sleeping isn't actually helpful, eh?:laugh:
Anyways, the only thing I am slightly annoyed about is that I had the flu last week which has caused a flare up in my asthma, which of course has impacted my running. It is pretty frustrating. Since I quit smoking in April I haven't had to use my inhaler even once. So this feels like a bit of a set back.

But otherwise, I'm just so excited to get out there and do this race. My goal is to finish it in 3hrs which I know isn't really fast but I figured is respectable for a first try. For me this race really is a way to celebrate how far I have come and to prove to myself that my limits are meaningless and have been self imposed.

The count down is on. Wish me luck and pray for good weather on Sunday!
Thanks for all your support! I'll post my results Sunday evening!:happy:

ShellyLee

Congrats!! I'm hoping to do one in March of next year.. I still have a ways to go in my training though! I'm also not planning on finishing it very quickly but Good Luck! :drinker:

m2kjenn

I wish you all the best luck - How exciting!!! Hope your asthma calms down and you can just enjoy.

KatWood

Sunday was perfect weather for a marathon. Although we were all struggling to stay warm before the 8am race start, once the race started the cool sunny day was quite enjoyable. The course was fantastic. There was one large hill within the first 5 kms, but beyond that the terrain was fairly level, just enough changes in elevation to keep it interesting. The routes my husband created for me to train with in Barrie were cruel in comparison, but I must admit that I am thankful, as I think this worked to my advantage on race day.

The first 2/3 of the race went by quickly. It felt like the kms were flying by... ok, so that is a bit of an exaggeration, there was definitely work involved and my muscles weren’t letting me forget it, but I didn’t really hit a wall until about 19kms in. I stopped for a break at the 20kms mark, thinking I would walk for a minute or two and then sprint to the end. But of course as soon as I slowed to a walk I looked over and saw my husband taking my photo and my aunt cheering me on. So after a few choice words, I picked the pace back up and headed to the finish line.

Once I crossed the finish line I was definitely tired, but also relieved and exhilarated! After a year of training it was over, I had done it and I knew I was hooked. I am definitely doing it again next year! My mom crossed the finish line an hr later, with us cheering her on the last km. She was tired and sore but excited and thrilled to have completed the race. She told me later that she met some great people along the way who helped motivate and encourage one another.

When I first learned of the 2009 race back in the fall of 2008 I decided I would enter and just finish the race. As I started my training in the winter of 2008 I decided I wanted to complete it in 3hrs, what I would consider respectable for a first try by a self confessed non-runner. When I ran a practice run in Barrie a few weeks ago I was thrilled when I did it in 2:49! But with the thrill of the race, the competition of the other runners and the cheering of the volunteers, on lookers and my family I crossed the finish line at 2:23:48. :happy:

Overall, it was a great day, definitely one I won’t soon forget. The weather was great, the volunteers and on lookers were truly fantastic (Standing in the cold at 8am on a Sunday morning!) and the event was a lot of fun and raised money for great cause.

So anyone out there who is thinking of taking up running but is unsure if they can do it, trust me you can. Most limits are self imposed. With some hard work and dedication, you can accomplish almost anything. Start with the couch to 5 k program and then work yourself up from there. You will be surprised how fast your body will adapt and your running will improve. And like me, you may be surprised to find you enjoy it!

KatWood

A few photos.

chrissyh

AWESOME Way to go! I've done couch to 5k and had started a half training program 2 weeks ago - you have inspired me to keep going and I will do it!!

Thank you for sharing and I am so proud of you!!!!

m2kjenn

Kat - Congratulations!!!! What a great race - and a fantastic time. Very proud of you. Hope to be in your shoes someday. Just finishing the c25k and signing up for my first 5k the end of November.

KatWood

Thanks!:happy: