My goal all along this season was to run a PR at the Edmonton half-marathon. The plan was to shoot for a sub 1:50. With all the great races I had leading up to the race, I was in striking distance. Throw in some random factors in the mix like a stupid shoulder injury, not enough long runs and transitioning to minimalist shoes and the odds of smashing my PR were so-so.
We got up about 5:30 a.m. on race day. I guzzled 32 ounces of water and ate some bread and a protein bar and stretched. I was nervous. I tried not to think whether or not my achilles would stay quiet. We carpooled to the start (about 25 minutes). After dropping off our bags, we seeded ourselves in the pack. Audrey and Tara stayed closer to the back and I squeezed myself in behind the 1:50 bunny and in front of the 2-hour bunny.
Tara and I drove to Edmonton early Saturday. We ran in the Friendship Run, ate at the Olive Garden and volunteered at the 10 km race. Usually I like to laze around all day and read before a big race.
We got up about 5:30 a.m. on race day. I guzzled 32 ounces of water and ate some bread and a protein bar and stretched. I was nervous. I tried not to think whether or not my achilles would stay quiet. We carpooled to the start (about 25 minutes). After dropping off our bags, we seeded ourselves in the pack. Audrey and Tara stayed closer to the back and I squeezed myself in behind the 1:50 bunny and in front of the 2-hour bunny.
Tagline for race? Crazy Fast. That’s why it’s a great Boston qualifier.You understand why I thought I would bust my PR?
And we were off. I turned my iPod. I tried to run conservatively and not get caught up with the speedsters. There were so many people that I couldn’t spot any of the pace bunnies. I spotted the 1:50 bunny as I rounded a corner. They were finishing a walk break. Decided against picking up my pace to catch them. I was hot. My feet hurt.
I concentrated on a short turnover and avoiding heel striking. Less pain this way. Also I didn’t try to run any faster than I needed to run a sub 2 hour. At the finish line, I was limping so I was checked out by the EMS guys. I declined the offer of a wheel chair. Got some ice and some water and I was almost good as new.
I finished in 1:55. Though I didn’t break my PR, I did have some successes. #1 I ran strong. #2 My hamstrings did not complain. Usually when I do speed or run faster than a 5-minute pace some random body part on my body screams in bloody murder. This tells me: a) I am stronger b) CrossFit is working!
I have seven weeks to get ready for Kelowna. My achilles are still a little sore. I’ve been icing and staying off my feet as much as I can. I need to get a strong long run in on Sunday. I can’t wait to take it slow and enjoy some me-time on the trails.
I should mention Tara and Audrey ran great races. I was so happy to be there for Tara’s first half-marathon. I’m crossing my fingers that Tara has caught the running bug!
Awesome job! I love fast courses, wish I could run on one this fall.
Congrats on another great run. One day I hope to run as fast as you.
Thanks Robin and Anon!