My Running History
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Me around 8 years old! My first 1 mile race.
I probably ran faster then! |
Don't let the picture to the left fool you. I am not a veteran runner. Far from it! I have only been running off and on for the last five years.
I gained the courage to run through walking. Yes, it took courage for me to start! I used to walk three to four miles at a time and eventually got bored. One day, I realized I could actually cut my workout time in half by jogging some of it. So, I quickened my pace and jogged for one block and then walked the next. Slowly, I increased the jogging distance to a few blocks, to 5 minutes to 10, 20, 30 minutes and more. Whenever I was able to increase my time, I felt a great sense of accomplishment. Thus began my love for running. That same year (2006), I completed a 10 K and a 5 mile race.
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My husband and I at the
Baltimore Marathon finish line! |
I stopped running for awhile but in 2009, I signed up for a leg in the Baltimore Marathon Relay with my husband and two neighbors.
I ran the first leg of the relay so I was able to begin with the marathoners as they dashed through the starting line with smiles and cheers. I felt the excitement in the air and even got a little teary eyed as I observed all of these regular people doing something amazing! They had all worked so hard and dedicated so much time to reach their goal. I wanted that, too! This past Christmas, my husband thoughtfully bought me a ticket for the Frederick 1/2 Marathon (May) and told me to get running!
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| Running my first 1/2! |
This brings us to February 2011 when I began training with Charm City Run's half marathon group. Was I scared to start this! The previous year and a half contained little to no exercise because I had been pregnant, on bed-rest, and caring for a newborn. I went into our first group run with no base and we were scheduled to complete 4-6 miles. I felt intimidated and was the s-l-o-w-e-s-t one on the road. I remember the coach said to me, "are you doing okay?" and we hadn't even finished a mile. But, I did it; I finished 5 miles.
Running with a group is easier and more fun than running solo. I attended every practice, got stronger, and was able to finish the Frederick 1/2 Marathon in a time much quicker than I thought I could. I was so proud!
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| All smiles at the finish line! |
It was around this time that I learned I was accepted into the New York City Marathon. The New York City Marathon is one of the toughest marathons in the world to gain entry to. People can get in through a fast time, charity fundraising, by completing a certain number of New York Road Runner Races or through the lottery. Less than 10 % of those who apply through the lottery are accepted each year. I was one of the lucky few. When I found out, my stomach did flips and my eyes bugged out. I think I swore a few times! (Maybe more than a few times!) I realized there was no turning back. I had to commit to a full marathon!
So, there you have it. I feel that I am living proof that anyone can complete a half marathon and, hopefully, I will show you the same is true for a full 26.2 on November 6th!
