In 3 days, I’ll be lining up at the start line for the 40th running of the Marine Corps Marathon. I’ll be joined by approximately 40,000 of my closest friends.
I’m feeling surprisingly zen about the whole thing.
When I originally decided to run MCM, I had a goal of getting a PR. I trained with the Hansons plan to try to finally break 4:30. And there was a portion of the training cycle where that looked like it might actually be possible.
And then there were the dark days. The days were I was coughing constantly and my hip had me grounded from running. For a while there, I wondered if I’d make it to the start line, much less actually get through to the finish line.
Now, I’m in a different place entirely. Why? Runner’s World Half and Festival.
I dialed in on my planned pace in a way that I didn’t know I was capable of. I ran 3 races (the trail race is a whole different story LOL) with an average pace between 11:06 and 11:14. Right.on.target.
Will it be easy to run the Marine Corps Marathon? No. Will it be manageable? Yes. Barring unforeseen circumstances, I’ve got this. And I can do it with a smile on my face.
I went back and read my race report from my first Marine Corps Marathon. I struggled. A lot. I’ve learned a lot in the last 7 years. Know what I’ve learned? I’ve learned that there is a difference between racing a race and running a race. Racing involves pushing yourself and walking (running?) the fine line between a manageable pace and one that pushes you over the edge and forces walking. Running a race, on the other hand, is a much more controllable endeavor. It’s easier to avoid the wall if you are maintaining a pace that feels comfortable at all times. I will be running this marathon, not racing it. And I’m ok with that.
I just need to remember to run with my brain and my heart and let my legs just come along for the ride.
Well, that pace would be racing a half for me, much less a marathon!
But I hear you. And I always want to race. Probably because I don’t do it anywhere near as often as you do.
Good luck! The brain is the most important muscle. 🙂
Judy @ Chocolaterunsjudy recently posted…What’s weather got to do with it?
Sounds like you have a great attitude and plan for your event. I hope you really enjoy it a lot!
Elle recently posted…The Ultimate English Muffin, Gluten Free and Grain Free
You’ve got a great attitude and approach going into this weekend’s race. I’m sure you’ll do great on Sunday!
Kathryn @ Dancing to Running recently posted…Peanut Butter Banana Bread Recipe (and Mighty Nut Giveaway!)
Super attitude and I too will be running my next races, not racing! No shame at all either. If I was ever going to do another marathon I would love to do this one! Sending good vibes to you and can’t wait for the recap!
Tricia@MissSippipiddlin recently posted…How Do You Hemp Heart – Review and Giveaway
Sounds like you have your head in the right place. You’re going to be great! Enjoy it!
Nicole @ Fitful Focus recently posted…Chocolate Chip Chickpea Blondies {vegan, gluten free}
great view. see ya sunday!
courtney @ eat pray run dc recently posted…Overnight Chocolate Peanut Butter Oats
You’ve totally got this!!!
Annmarie recently posted…Motivation Tips for Early Morning Workouts
You can do it!
Alison recently posted…Detroit Free Press Marathon
Glad you recovered so that you can still run in the race!
Cassi recently posted…Indoor Fitness Using Household Furniture
Enjoy it!
Sounds like you’ve got your head in the right place. I’m so glad I dialed back my goals for Chicago. I just read that quote by John Bingham about begin grateful about what you achieve and not being angry about what you didn’t. So so so perfect. You’re going to have a great race!
Wendy@Taking the Long Way Home recently posted…Heavy Medal Deprivation
Yes, yes and yes. I’ve significantly altered my goals for this race and am just hoping to finish smiling.
Elena recently posted…Giving In Instead of Giving Up
Great attitude lady! I need to run with all heart this weekend, I know I can do this, I just need to let myself believe it!
Sue @ This Mama Runs for Cupcakes recently posted…Stocking up my Protein Pantry with the Vitamin Shoppe
Those are some great insights! Racing is fun, but sometimes it’s important to just go out and run for the enjoyment of it. I’ve been running races the past year or so and it’s so much more enjoyable not trying to race it through an injury.
You will do great and it sounds like you have a great plan! Good luck
Toni recently posted…A Training Update plus the #FiveToTheFinishLine Webisode 5 #TeamASICSNYCM
Good luck Sunday! I want to do the 10k some day, and I wish this race was shown on TV.
Lesley recently posted…Yoga With a Cat
Love the attitude for the race, you’ve got this! Enjoy it!
Laura recently posted…Chicago Marathon 2015
Great attitude! Sounds like you are going into this race with the right mindset. Good luck!
Michelle @ Running with Attitude recently posted…Recovery – Week 1 Done!
Good luck out there! You will do great and remember, finishing is awesome in and of itself! As long as you have fun and cross that finish smiling – that is the success 🙂 Crush it!
Patty @ Reach Your Peak recently posted…What I Learned From My XC Team: Part 2