Last year, I set a goal to run 13 half marathons in 79 days. Why? To “moon up” in Half Fanatics. I figured that I’d run 13 half marathons in 2013, how hard would it be to run 13 in 79 days? (And yes, I realize it’s kind of an arbitrary goal, but aren’t many of our running related goals arbitrary?)
As it turns out, harder than I realized.
Not the physical aspect. I’m trained. I can run 13.1 and know I’ll finish. Sometimes it may suck. Yeah, Kentucky, I’m looking at you. And there may be more walking than I like. But I can do it. And mostly I can do it well and have fun while doing it. In fact, barring something stupid like tripping over my own two feet (BTDT), I’m not really worried about my body not being able to complete the challenge.
But, holy cow, am I tired of this challenge. I have called in pretty much every favor anyone owes me. I’ve missed soccer games (or arrived smelly and sweaty from a race). I’ve dumped a bunch of activities on Beer Geek’s lap. I feel like I’ve been constantly playing catch up on my sleep because I have a race nearly every weekend.
But the end is in sight. I have three more races.
- Historic Half – This one has pretty much taken over my weekend. It’s JUST far enough away to be inconvenient and they don’t offer race morning pick up. I’ll be driving to Fredericksburg twice this weekend, one of those times starting at 5am. I’m already tired just thinking about that.
- Alexandria Running Festival – Thankfully, this one is local. I can handle that. All that truly remains to be seen is how ridiculously hot it will be that weekend…
- ZOOMA Half Marathon– My victory lap! The last race in my challenge! I can’t tell you how crazy my planning for that weekend was, but it’s all planned now, so I get to go just have fun with the other ambassadors. I.can’t.wait.
I have learned a lot from this whole adventure and I’ll share that in a few weeks, but one of the biggest things I’ve learned is that I love running and racing, but I don’t love it when it’s my main priority.
Want to join me for my victory lap? I’d love to see you at ZOOMA. Make sure you register before the rates go up on May 17th and make sure you use my code: ANNAMB8 to get 10% off! What are you waiting for? You know you want to be there with me!!!
Still don’t know how you do it Erika! You’re my motivation. See you at Zooma for your victory lap and my comeback race.
Deborah Brooks recently posted…Why is this so HARD???
I’m looking forward to it!
I would join you at Zooma except that I think my husband’s head would explode if I added another “day off” to my schedule. (Ha, running 13.1 is relaxing, right?) You’re SO CLOSE, though!! I thought, briefly, for maybe 5 seconds, about becoming a half fanatic. Then I remembered that I hate half marathons. LOL There should be a group for people who like 10 milers. Or leisurely walks around the block. =)
Diana recently posted…How Not To Train Your Dragon
Ha! It’s only 3 more miles LOL. And I think Beer Geek is kind of over my running schedule too.
Great job! I wish I could join you for Zooma, but I’m trying to rebuild after multiple injuries. I love love love half marathons–definitely my favorite–> a long run but also a race! And you’ve got some great races and locales lined up. Who doesn’t love Alexandria? I was just there this past weekend to visit my husband’s family, and once again, we wondered When can we move here? Not for a few years, unfortunately, but maybe…
Susie @ SuzLyfe recently posted…Cher and Packages (But Not Drag Queens) #thinkingoutloud
Alexandria is lovely and it should be a fun race. You’ll have to let me know if you decide to race in this area.
I continue to be wowed and amazed by this goal that you’re after! Keep up the great work, lady!
Kathryn @ Dancing to Running recently posted…Today’s The Day
Thanks!!
Alexandria was one of my hottest races ever. I mean, I looked hot, but, oh, the weather!
Top 3 hottest races:
1. Alexandria, VA
2. Fargo, ND
3. St. Paul, MN
Hawaii was hot too, but I totally expected that.
Good luck this weekend! I admit, I am glad to not be racing. You’ll enjoy dialing it back this summer, after you arrive on Venus.
Kim @ (Just) Trying recently posted…Run Like a Mother 5k Race Recap
I’m so praying it isn’t as hot as the year you ran it…
So awesome wish I could be there to celebrate with a beer!
Laura @losingrace recently posted…What’s Next v.3.05
Thanks!
Amazing!! Seriously amazing! When you say that out loud it sounds so doable, but I can’t imagine how crazy this would be!
Jolene recently posted…H – Hometown – warning….picture overload!
It’s a little bit crazy. I know people who race every weekend. I don’t know how they do that and anything else…
That’s incredible! Good luck with your next 3 and new moon level. I wish I could have run Annapolis, but it just didn’t fit my schedule this year. Hoping for 2015, you’ll still be an ambassador and I’ll get to see you there!
Meredith @FitNiceRunner recently posted…2014 EquiKids 5K and Run with the Hounds
I am planning to apply again. I’ve really enjoyed working with ZOOMA and it’s a nice race.
You are seriously my idol. I don’t think I could do it mentally! Can’t wait to do the victory lap with you!!
Sue @ This Mama Runs for Cupcakes recently posted…5 Reasons to…….Have a BRF!
We’ll have so much fun that weekend. And then I can retire. Or not LOL.