This masters series quest has taught me a lot these past 6 months. It’s been challenging, fun, and extremely motivating. When you’re chasing state records there are a few things to consider: 1.) Races need to be in state and certified. 2.) There are some race distances you only get one or two shots at a year. There are plenty of 5k’s and 10ks, half and full marathons but some of the distances are few and far between. When I…
I’m not a fan of being unprepared when it comes to racing. I know there are some who like to race “for fun” but my version of fun typically involves racing fast and running well. Racing is hard enough as it is and I don’t need a little voice in my head telling me I can’t do it or I’m not ready when things get tough. I want to head to the starting line feeling calm and confident in my…
I’ve decided that Thanksgiving break and peak marathon training week make an excellent combination. I didn’t plan it this way but it really was the best week of the year for getting in a lot of miles not to mention the abundance of delicious food! I only worked one day (and even then it was part-time) so I had the time flexibility for running and cooking. My kids had no complaints! How could I turn down my son’s request for…
This Saturday marked the 8th consecutive weekend I had a race. Yes, this is now my (unintentional) record but I promise the racing streak ends here! Of all 8 races I probably had the lowest expectations for this one and I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised. For the first time in many months I negative split a race and finished strong. Definitely a good way to end the racing streak! Saturday morning my friend Ann met Natalie and…
On Saturday our family made the drive down to Benton, Arkansas for a 2-mile race. This is another one of those rarely raced distances but that’s one of the things I like about the Arkansas Grand Prix series. There’s plenty of variety and it’s always a bonus when my kids can participate. I actually registered three of our four kids for this one and it was Anna’s first Grand Prix race. The Arkansas Runner 2 Mile definitely wins the award…
Saturday morning I ran in a very last minute 2 mile race. That’s right- 2 miles. At any other time of the year a 2 mile race would probably sound like a sprint to me but I figured it couldn’t be any harder than racing one mile. A few days before the race I got an email about it and before I dismissed it I thought I’d ask a couple running friends if they would want to make the drive…