I ran the inaugural race as my first 5K back in 2009. Having just finished the Couch to 5K program, I was excited to run the entire race without walking. I finished in 33:59, and immediately began looking forward to improving my time. A pattern which has continued over the years.
The following year, I ran the race again. With the hills and terrain variations in our area, an apples to apples comparison for race times is practically impossible, save repeating a race the following year. I didn't know it at the time, but I was incredibly anemic for SMARM round 2, and finished slower. My 36:48 time was disappointing and should have been a red flag of my illness.
I skipped the race in 2011 but managed to finally break through to a sub 30 finishing time at a different race. I had high hopes in 2012, but circumstances made this race only a 3 second PR - 29:17. On race day, my friend Christie O. was having cancer surgery, so I wore this tutu (crafted by Mrs. O herself) in her honor.
I'll just tell ya, rain and tutus don't mix. We got hit with a monsoon at the start line, and I lost my fluff. Instead, during the race I fought to keep the tulle from going between my legs and chaffing.
For 2013, the year of the half, I chose to travel to Ohio in quest of the illusive sub 2. No SMARM for me.
I'm excited to be tackling the race again this year. I know I'm a stronger runner than ever, but I'm not sure where my speed puts me in relation to my current 5K PR (25:50). I'm excited to see what I've got! I've ran the hills a couple of times this past week or so. Knowing the course well can't hurt!
Your turn: Do you have any races/challenges coming up? Do you prefer running the same race every year, or tackling something new/different?
You've got this!!!!
ReplyDeleteI have my half in June and a 15k next month. I have a few other local races planned for the fall, but I haven't signed up for them yet. I'm contemplating another half in October, but I think I need to see how I feel in June. Most of the local races I run are repeat races for me. I love them and I support the causes!
ReplyDeleteI have my first marathon in 11 days. I'm happy because it's very laid back and small. The challenge is it's a 6 mile 2-times up and back at a lake. It's hilly and very likely to be windy by the time I finish.
ReplyDeleteI can't believe you just started this in 2009. I thought you were a lifelong runner. Yay Brooke!
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to hear how it goes! I am hoping this week to start back to some light exercise after my surgery but with my schedule it may not happen- maybe a walk on Saturday? I won't be racing until May 31...
ReplyDeleteNo races for me on the calendar yet. I'm realizing that I am so mental about races that I tend to sabotage myself before the race even begins. Ugh. But you are my racingbidol.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to hear how it goes! You've come a long way, baby :)
ReplyDeleteI just remembered you and I started running around the same time. =) I'm having to take a hiatus. Burnout. =-/ But I'm hoping to still stay in shape and start running (at least 3 times a week instead of the one now) again sometime this fall.
ReplyDeleteI don't think I have done any a second time, yet. but I do like the idea of it. You Got this!!!
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