After feeling like my goal of running a race in all 50 states was at a stalemate, I jumpstarted my progress this summer.
I did 3 10ks over 3 Saturdays and gained Utah, Wyoming, and Michigan.
I ran at 4000+ feet, 7000+ feet, and near sea level.
I ran one wicked hill, several awful hills, and completely flat.
I ran two in Saucony Triumphs and one in Vibrams.
I learned a few things:
- Altitude matters.
- Hills + altitude sucks.
- Hills + altitude + being undertrained is even worse.
- Finishing IS winning.
- I always have a sprint left in my legs, even if my lack of oxygen makes me nearly pass out at the end.
- My dad can still kick my ass – he finished ahead of me every.single.time. (Even in the last race where he was pushing Shoo in a running stroller for the whole distance.)
It was a blast, but I admit I’m looking forward to starting next Saturday with a beer, rather than a race. More on that beer and the individual races later.
that is awesome! my favorite: "Finishing IS Winning" so so true. congrats!!!
Definitely liking the "Finishing is Winning." And starting the day with a beer … sounds good and cold. 🙂
Michigan? Yes!!!
Wow, that's awesome! I agree with the hills + elevation statement, but after a run like that, the flats at home are super easy.
3 races in 3 weeks is impressive! You've definitely earned that beer!
Great stuff, well done! I live and train between 6000 and 7000ft. It makes a massive difference on race day. At sea level I just don't get tired.
Loving "finishing is winning!" i am on my own 3 races in 3 weeks (only 2 states) and hoping for good races. Have a great vacation!!
AWESOME job… I think finishing is winning needs to be your sub title of the blog.
Beer as in plural, I assume.
Sounds like a lot of fun! New experiences are always so enriching. You definitely are a winner!
Just getting caught up here, hence commenting on your posts in backwards order. :PYou are a MACHINE!
I love the reminder that "finishing IS winning." I also like that you can smile and laugh about a hard race. The good thing about a PW is that it hopefully means your next time is going to look even better. Way to go! Keep going, and keep rewarding yourself for all your great effort!