Has it been over a month since I ran the Colfax half-marathon? Time of 2:34 (not quite goal of 2:30, but close) It was quite an experience!!! Unfortunately, a cold virus caught up with me the day before the race. My nose wouldn't stop running, sneezing, achy - the whole nine yards. But, there was no way I was going to let a little head cold keep me from running.
We got to the race site early, got a great parking spot, had time to streatch out, relax, and mentally prepare for the big race. There were thousands of runners. Awesome sight!!!
The first 10 miles were pretty good, then I hit the proverbial wall around mile 11. I'll have to say that mile was the hardest to run - I couldn't focus, my brain wouldn't function. It was tough to visualize that I only had 2 more miles to go - couldn't visualize or comprehend that the end was in sight. I remember looking to my left, and there was a spectator pushing a stroller walking faster than I was running. How defeating is that? I did pull out that inner strength to finish strong - after all, didn't want to look like a limp noodle crossing that finish line.
I learned a lot from that first race - things to do differently: hydrate more during the race, bring a little snack, vary the pace, don't go out too fast, finish strong.
Will definitely do it again. Took a couple of weeks off and now back on a light training schedule - might consider running in Sedona, Az in Feb. Will have to see.........
