After much hemming and hawing, I've beaten the post-marathon blues by signing up for another one. I just registered to run the National Marathon in Washington, D.C. in March. It's in my parent's backyard so there's no hotel to deal with, it's got to be flatter than Baltimore, and it's early enough in the season that it won't be terribly hot and humid. I've started to map out a tentative plan and look forward to comparing my long runs from both training cycles.
I've also decided that this time I will run for a cause. I'm running for Girls on the Run, a great program that seeks to teach girls self-respect and healthy habits through running. This is right up my alley! There is a GOTR group in my area, but it's in the next city over so I've never gotten involved. Now I can raise money to support the cause while training for my second marathon. My goal is $1,000; I know, it's a lot of money! With just under four months until race day, it will take a lot of effort to meet my time goal (3:40- Boston Qualifier!) and my fundraising goal. This should be interesting!
I got in a good little run today, throwing in eight thirty-second pick-ups into an otherwise easy three-miler. The colder weather isn't bothering my lungs (yet), so I love the fact that running hard doesn't leave me panting and sweaty. My hair still goes every possible direction, but at least I don't smell (quite as) bad.
I'll come up with a concrete training plan this week. It won't be much different than my plan for Baltimore, but I'll go a little faster and a little longer. The biggest difference is that I know that I can do it this time.
oooohhhh! I can't wait to see what you can do on a flatter course and now that you know more what to expect! So when will you start your official training? Or have you already, lol?
ReplyDeleteGirls on the Run is a great program. Here, they only have rooms for so many girls and my daughter hasn't gotten chosen because she plays so many sports. They like to get the girls that aren't already involved in things. That is awesome that you are raising money for them!
You are very motivating to me! Maybe because we both ran our first marathons at the same time! I'm rootin for ya!!
Thanks! I meant to have my first long run this morning, but it snowed yesterday and I am such a wimp about running in the snow. I'll get in 6 miles this afternoon, and hopefully 12 next weekend.
ReplyDeleteI am starting to get really excited. I want to be up to 16 miles by the end of Christmas Break.
So, are you ready for another marathon yet? :)
Oh! And I'm sorry that there isn't enough room in GOTR in your area for your daughter, but I understand their reasoning; she already does so much! Hopefully they'll choose her soon anyway. She'd be a good role model for others while learning about running.
ReplyDeleteYay! You will do it! So excited to see you reach your goal! Maybe we will meet in Boston in 2012? :)
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