Since 2005 I have run very faithfully. I usually run six mornings a week. So how did I become a half marathon runner? Glad you asked! Okay, you probably didn't ask, but here's the answer...
In 2006 our Music Department was doing a fund raiser. We did a 20 kilometer bike-a-thon. While in the planning stages, I realized that 20K was just under 13 miles and I decided it was time to try something new! I determined to run the 20K with a little more added on to complete my first half marathon. Up to this point, the longest run I had ever done was 10 miles so this was a BIG deal!!
Saturday, September 2, 2006 finally arrived! I had sponsors, I had my running shoes, water, hammer gel, and Les was following me on a bike. I was a ready as I was going to be! The route was the Ventura to Ojai Bike Path. I had studied the route and the halfway point was at Foster Park, with water and clean restrooms.
I started out very strong with the goal of running my first half marathon in under 2 hours. That would be just under 9 1/2 minutes a mile. I didn't share this goal with anyone, but it was in the back of my mind, pushing me on.
When I crossed the 10 mile mark, I was in new territory. 11 miles, 12 miles, finally 13.1 miles!! I did it! My total time was 1 hour, 58 minutes, and 57 seconds... I beat 2 hours by 63 seconds! I was so happy and relieved that it was over!!
As anyone will tell you, the feeling of accomplishment will drive you to do more and more! In 2007 my goal was to run a half marathon each month (which I did) and I have run more than one each month this year. My longest run to date is 22 miles and I'm eyeing a marathon in the near future.
One more post tomorrow - Lessons Learned
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