Last Sunday I completed my sixth half marathon, and it was absolutely fantastic.
This was my second time running the Poulsbo half, and it is the only half I’ve repeated thus far. This is also the course that holds my current PR from last year. Everything about this race is my favorite from the course to the time of year. October makes for perfect running weather.
This year Lily was in town to run it too, and she took second female overall. No big deal.
As for me, the race was just what I expected. My training was on point, and although I didn’t get a PR I was CLOSE. I felt strong the entire race, and didn’t feel the desire to walk despite the massive hills throughout the course. My time was about 2 minutes and 23 seconds slower than last year (and my current PR,) which I was more than OK with.
I finished with a time of 2:11:52, a 10:03 pace.
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this race because despite finishing all my long runs, my mid week runs were slacking the last couple weeks because I was so wrapped up with school. I also didn’t have “fresh legs” because of all the exploring/hiking Lily and I did the two days prior.
I think I’ve come to a point where running half marathons are not longer a “big deal.” I didn’t feel nervous, and I was only moderately tired/sore after. I did run this entire race in my Vibram’s, which I had never done before. This contributed to some sore calves, but otherwise they were great. I couldn’t be happier with the outcome of this race.
I’d also like to thank my giant spaghetti feast and this Texas sized cookie for my prerace fuel.
My mentality throughout my entire training process and the race itself was they key to my successful run. I smiled, I laughed, I cheered on other runners, and I knew that I had the ability to finish strong. I’m still on such a runners high, & I’m searching for half marathon number #7!
I didn’t stop my watch at 13.1 so this is my time for an extra .04 of a mile. Every second counts.
Q(s):
- Runners, what’s your favorite time of year to run?
- Non runners, what’s your favorite time of year to do outdoor activities?
