Just about two weeks ago, my son and I ran in my our local middle school 5K. Before I tell you how I did, a story.
On Thanksgiving Day 2009, my husband, kids and sister ran in our town's Thanksgiving Day race. I went, but because I was very out of shape, I took pictures at the start and then drove around taking pictures in different spots. While I was part of the day, in all honesty, it was not satisfying. I felt like a loser. And when I saw many women my age running with their families or friends, I wanted to trade in my camera for a number.
The next year, 2010, I wasn't ready to run. But, instead of taking pictures, my son and I walked the 5K course. It felt much better than watching from the sidelines, but I still wasn't quite where I wanted to be.
This past Thanksgiving, I ran the race! Fast forward six months (and having run several 5Ks in between), I signed up for the 5K and my son decided to do it too. How fun that we have an activity that is rewarding for both of us -- my son is speedy and loves to race. And how great to have my kids see me meet a goal that seemed unattainable.
Pre-race, I again wrote down my goals. They were:
- Finish strong. My friend Claudia was with me at the finish of the Ramble and we agreed that I had too much left at the end. So, the goal was to leave it all or at least more of it on the course.
- Less smiling, more speed. While running the Ramble, I was conscious of smiling and looking at spectators. This time, my goal was to focus on the running.
- Beat 39:52.7, my best 5K time.
I also had a stretch goal: 38:00 or less.
Here's an except of my entry after the race:
Time 36:13!!!
Hot and sunny during the race. . . Definitely stayed focused on the run and gave it my all. Pushed at the end up Brook even though I was hot and tired.
My family was at the end and cheered when they saw me come in -- truth be told, they almost missed me because they were looking down the road where they thought I was when I zoomed by them at the finish!
I think it's awesome that you have accomplished so much! I'm going to run a race with you one of these days.
Posted by: Carole | June 01, 2012 at 06:48 AM
That is just fantastic!
Posted by: Maryse | June 01, 2012 at 07:26 AM
WAY TO GO! I like the focus on the speed. That, and the endurance for the half, are great goals to pursue next.
Posted by: claudia | June 02, 2012 at 09:33 PM