"I am strong, I feel great" First Half Marathon- check!

Today I crossed off a big 2011 goal....completed my first half marathon. 

Last year, running below 60 degree weather was a hell no.  Running in the rain was a big I don't think so......
And running more than a 5k race or running more than an hour was a no go

This morning I ran in chilly 50 degree weather in the rain for 2 hours and 21 minutes thus completing a 13.1 mile long race. 

Woot!

I was a bit nervous going into the race- my quads hamstrings were feeling rather tight and crampy- I loaded up on electrolytes and made sure I was properly hydrated- making for little sleep the night before with so many trips to the bathroom!

The race seemed to fly by.... usually around mile 7 I start to get antsy but I've learned that saying a mantra helps immensely.  Saying a mantra helps pass time, helps me stay focused, helps me take my mind off any issues and it reminds me why I'm running.  My Mantra for this race started early- around mile 5.  "I am strong, I feel great".  I just kept repeating it over and over.  Next thing I know I hear a lady say to a friend, "we're almost there now- just think of the last 5k you ran- that's all you have left".  Wow, I ran 10 miles and only had a 5k left to run!

The last 5k or 3.1 miles was complete focus.  I was around an 11 mile pace at the 6 mile mark; hearing that last 5k helped me step it up and start to crank up the speed.  I also saw Grunt Girls Patty and Kim- seeing the GG shirts and the girls made me feel great. 

Coming into the finish line area at the last mile was amazing.  Seriously, will I always get choked up with each goal I accomplish?

I know I'm close and I go all out through the finish line.  My favorite part of racing is in that last mile where I go balls to the wall and finish strong. 

I ended up with a time of 2:21:52 and a 10:49 pace plus a terrible blister on my pinky toe- totally worth it :)

Now- it's time for Triathlon Season and a run for Mayor of Grafton, this is going to be a great summer and I know that I can do anything if I Believe, Love, Understand, and Empower!

XOXO