It's not hard to believe that I like to push the envelope. When I start to feel restless it's usually because I'm not pushing myself to do something-- to take a chance-- to walk the line. That was my general mood back in January. I didn't really have a personal challenge, until Cindy called. Next thing I knew, I was training to run the 5k in the Salt Lake Marathon.
I'm not a runner. I don't enjoy it like my dad and sister do. It hurts my body. I consider myself generally in good health and in pretty good shape, but I don't run. Until now.
Yesterday was the day. A 5k is not that big of a deal if you run, but if you don't it seems like a full-out marathon! We got there early in the morning and waited anxiously for the starting horn-- then we started. All three of us ran until the first mile, then we lost our first running buddy. As we hit the base of the last hill, my last running partner slowed down but I kept going. Thanks to pure adrenalin, Katy Perry and the Ting Tings (favorite running music) I put one foot in front of the other until I was at the crest of the hill. I tore off my jacket and shirt (I left on my tank top, mom) and sprinted for the Gateway.
I can't tell you how good it felt to cross that finish line and think I did it. Me, a 34 year old stay-at-home mom did it because I wanted to, not because I had to. It felt great! I came in 148/254 in my age division and 791/1522 out of all the women. My time was 36:15. not bad for my first time.
Did I get the bug? I don't know yet. But, there was an undeniable synergy about running in a group. Thanks for the talking me into it Cindy!
10 comments:
That's so awesome! I keep thinking I should do something like that! Congrats on doing so well!
WAY TO GO! You ROCK lady!!! I hope you got a massage later...
Way to go!! I knew you would be great. I have a feeling you'll be back there next year.
I've done the 5k once and it was hard! I had trained up until the last month, then for some reason I didn't do anything. Go figure.
Anyway, I would love to run in it with you next year :) When I'm not pregnant!
I think the 5k is the most I'll ever do. no half marathon for me!
What's crazy, is that if you can run three miles you can run 26. It's just the time you have to train! Don't sell yourself short :) Nice job!!!
Congratulations on finishing your first race. I agree there is a definite synergy to it and a great sense of accomplishment in finishing something you set your mind to. Way to go!!
Awesome! Good for you - congrats!
You were my inspiration in this crazy thing. I feel so empowered now. Thank you for doing it with me. I can't believe I was only 1min and 40 sec behind you. WestFest 5k in coming up, are you in?
You know it really doesn't surprise me that you have done the marathon you are an amazing women and you are one that if you are going to do something you will finish it and move forward with it so yes I do see you doing it again and again job well done!, you go girl.
Good job Nichole! I'm sure in a year you'll be doing the half-marathon!
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