I haven't done this before. But many keep telling me that they're inspired by my running. And since my running has taken me places I never imagined maybe it's a good place to start a blog. A year ago the thought of running the Boston Marathon was a BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal) - a phrase I learned a number of years ago at the Center for Creative Leadership. In other words, a long shot.
Last June, I had the race of my life, literally. On a day when few others had a good race because the weather was much warmer than anticipated I ran more than 12 minutes faster than my previous marathon time. Rather than an out of body experience, I'd describe it as an "out of mind" experience. I let go of all the mental doubts and nags and ran with my heart, listening only to my legs and my body. I qualified with 60 seconds to spare. Not bad! My previous marathon was in Des Moines, IA in October of 2006. It was only my second marathon and my first under 4 hours, but that's when I heard that first whisper hinting at a Boston Qualifying time. I needed a 3:45:59.
Grandma's Marathon in Duluth was my first marathon in June of 2001 and my Boston Qualifier in June of 2007. It is a great race. Small town charm, well supported and just fun. What better place to "ice" sore legs after the race of my life than in Lake Superior which provided the path - the scenic highway by it's side and a beautiful distraction (when the going got tough).
So tonight I sit here downloading Runner's World podcasts to listen to on the plane to Boston and trying to get the Athlete Alert to work on my mom's cell phone - that way they'll have some idea of when they might see me among the 25,000 other runners. My plane is Friday morning and I'm ready to be on it.
1 comment:
Dear Jess:
You inspire and motivate us. We are all so very proud of and excited for you. You have earned this chance of a lifetime and while we can't be there with you, we will be with you in mind and spirit. We'll (at least those of us not bound to desks in classrooms) be monitoring your progress on line and routing for you all the way.
Enjoy. Soak it all in. Celebrate the incredible achievements. First, that of undertaking the daunting challenge of running in any marathon. Second, that of pursuing and working so hard that you are among the elite marathoners . Anyone who qualifies for the Boston Marathon is an elite athlete for the rest of us who can only stand on the sidelines and cheer.
Have the time of your life. We can't wait to hear all about it.
Love Uncle Harold, Aunt Marcia, Becca & Rachel
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