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2012 Recap
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I've seriously neglected this blog for no reason other than I haven't made
the time to sit down and compose something. Which is kind of sad because
2012 wa...
12 years ago
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Still a little speechless. (okay, just a little) It was everything I expected it to be and more and know that I did it with this amazing group of HalfWits made it that much better. Our training and communications over the last five months prepared us well for our goal of just finishing our first marathon. Thanks to everyone for their support, emails, phone calls, and well wishes. I am so proud of our whole group - Springfield Road Runners really rock!
The weather sucked - it was cold, windy, and even drizzled at one point. But we've trained in all kinds of weather since last January - so it was no big deal. And when we ran up that last hill and the wind was gusting, I'm thinking it's that damn Stanford overpass all over again!
I never hit the "wall" (though I do remember asking a water station volunteer what mile I was at somewhere between the double latte power gel and the finish line, and at one point I think I saw an old man with a cane walking towards me and a guy carrying a dog, and I did see Thing One and Thing Two and Elvis), but had some serious IT Band pain starting at mile 10. By mile 12 I thought there was simply no way I could continue - my knee was wracked with pain with every step. By mile 14, I just decided to suck it up, pop some tylenol, and just run through it. The mental training is what came in handy. I didn't train for five months to give up. I don't know where I found the guts to do this, but I'm so glad I did. I never thought it would be as hard as it was. I'm pretty sure I won't be up for running for a while.
The crowds were awesome and Jessica E. and I pretended we were rock stars (we had our names on the front of our shirts). Everyone cheered us on and we tried to keep track of how many times they called our names. There were some neighborhoods that went all out for the marathoners - like a parade atmosphere. At mile 21, a little kid gave me a jolly rancher - and that really helped!
But what helped me the most was having my husband turn up at all the right places in the race to run with me. Just when I started to doubt myself, he'd find me, jump in and run. I knew I could do this - I just needed reminders all along the way. By mile 22, I knew the race was just a lunch time run from being over, at mile 24, I knew it was just once around Washington Park. Mile 25.5 I could barely lift my feet, but once I saw that finish line - I ran as fast as I could. I had a goal of five hours, but I wasn't wearing a watch or even checking the clocks along the way because it really didn't matter. I finished at 4:59:28. I guess I could have stayed in that porta potty just a few more seconds!
The finish line was simply incredible. I have a picture of them putting the medal around my neck and the tears just kept coming. You know - I don't think I could ever do this again and I'm still a back of the pack penguin, but someone told me - pain is temporary, pride is forever.
Indeed it is.
Miles and Margarita being planned for November - if any of us decide to lace our shoes up and stumble on out the door.
Mary
Awesome post and CONGRATULATIONS, Mary! I was thinking about all you HWGW this weekend, regretting that I had to bow out, but so proud of everyone for hanging in there. I was checking the videos on the Chicago newslink, hoping to catch a glimpse of a familiar face.
Hey -- did you remember to wear your red shoelaces? Did a New Balance rep spot you at the finish line?
It was an amazing race! I started out with Mary F. Jenny G and Ron but lost them along the way. It was my first time in downtown Chicago and what a way to tour the town! The first 15 miles I was like a tourist looking at all the sites, the crazy costumes and high fivein the spectators. By 18 my legs started getting heavy and at 22 I was in a lot of pain and just didn't even want to look at the spectators. I could hear them cheering us on and then I saw the shirt that said "Pain is temperary Pride is forever". It mentally help me. The thighs had tightened up and my upper body was pulling me through. The hill up to the finish line was a killer but seeing the finish line was great. I ran better than I thought I would 4:37. I wasn't thinking about time, just making it. I am so proud of everyone else that make it. I couldn't have and wouldn't have made it without the group. Thanks again and WE DID IT!
Congrats Robin, Great Time!!!
:)
I am still beaming from ear to ear. It was the best experience ever since I started running. I kept a consistent pace and never really tired out. I kept waiting for that "wall" but it never came. The closer I got to the finish, the more energy I had. Once I did the first 6 miles, I told myself the next 20 I can do because I had done those on 2 training runs. I could have gone faster, but I would not have felt as good or enjoyed all of the sights and the people. The coolest time was when 2 of my co-workers from our Chicago Office found me along mile 15 or 16 and took pictures of me and Jenni G. That really lifted my spirits. That is what I wanted from my first marathon, and I achieved it. Would I do another marathon, heck yes! But I know the experience will never be like the first.
Half Wits are the best!!!
HWGW, All of you rock! Love your stories! For those still sore, Friday is when you start feeling normal again.
Hey Mary, I'm not sore and I still can't take corners and stairs. But, Im just a klutz though.
Congratualions to Ali for qualifying Boston!!!!!!!
A post marathon party is needed for all of you!!!!!!!!! Mary? When are you going to finalize the date? :):)
Your stories are great!!! All of you are so so so so so awesome!!!
okay - do I still have to be in charge? Who wants to arrange a party? Emily? Sounds like you're nominated!!
Each day - the shock of the pain wears off a little and I realize how much fun it really was. The crowd was great because after all, it was all about ME!! I'm feeling pretty proud and humble all at the same time.
Chuck - I'm NOT SORE TODAY - I went out and ran two baby miles on my lunch. I think getting into the pool worked out some of the muscle soreness and man, I woke up this morning with just a little knee pain and no muscle soreness! Felt good just to run for the hell of it! Lots of stretching, gym work, and swimming ahead. You're not a clutz - just obstacle-ly challenged!
And Ali - congrats to you - I know what this means to you. Remember - good things come to those who work the hardest and to those who wait for just the right moment - something YOU'VE learned from a few rookies as well as taught to others.
For the record - about 19 HWGW regularly ran together of which 14 did Chicago (and Jeremy doing Memphis soon, and Jim did Quad Cities), and 9 of us were brand new marathoners! How cool is that.
Look for a link to some photos by the weekend. If anyone has anymore shoot them my way. I'm working on a CD or DVD complete with music, etc., and will make sure some get to SRRC for the photo gallery and FootTrails.
Also - I met a couple of people interested in joining our group at least for Saturday runs. Is anyone interested in starting up again in a few weeks for some Saturday runs ( Just not so early. Like 8:00 a.m.?)6-10 mile range - we've got Frostbite coming up in December, or meeting at Washington Park at 5:15 ish on Thursdays?
Congratulations to all the marathoners - we did good, together.
Emily, Jeannie and I were already planning to meet at FitClub West Saturday at 6 am to run the Frostbite Festival 10-mile route.
As always, the more the merrier. Just so long as I'm not the only sloooooow guy.
Barry, Emily and Jeannie - be sure to let Jan Wilson know you are running that route and she'll leave water out for you. The turnaround is just a little past her house.
I'm here. Just got over my double visin and now I'm able to read. I was so afraid I was going blind. I think the stress of the marathon took all the vitamin A out of my eyes and I couldn't see. I don't know what the heck happen. Anyone else have double vision after the race? Anyone? Please? Just humor me then.
I agree with penguin and Kim, there is no reason to wake up at 5:00 a.m. unless it is 90 degrees outside and you're training for a marathon. I will be ready in a couple weeks to run some shorter longer runs on Saturdays. Might as well keep up our fitness level for the 10 miler/frostbite run. Kim make sure the leg is good and strong for running. Your leg should be better by the time we start running the longer shorter runs, right? Talk to your doc. Remember, I will run with you when you start training next year for the marathon :).
I had a ball at the marathon with everyone and I'm sort of depressed it's all over. Had fun at the after party also and the margs were awesome. Good place Kim, thanks for picking it out.
If anyone else tells me that I was 7 minutes away from Boston I will have to punch their lights out. I'm not doing this again so breaking 4 hours with a 3:58 will have to do. I did my best and I don't think I could do any better. I have to say, it was better the second time around. I felt a lot better than last year because I didn't hit the wall and I didn't start praying for my Mom's wings until I hit the hill.
Thanks to everyone who trained in the Half wits gone wild. We had a good time, didn't we?
Hey, Jenny G. are you out there? Haven't heard how you are doing. I didn't see you in the tent afterwards. Maybe it was because of my 2 hour massage. I just couldn't leave the station.
Pam - you're simply amazing. Under four hours is a huge accomplishment - Boston isn't what is important (well it is for some - but your goal was different this time). You've improved and had a much better experience than last year. And you kept a lot of us rookies going when we wanted to quit. So you only should do another one if you really really really want to. Had you qualified, you would have had to train all winter and spring to run a marathon in Boston. And that you were seven minutes from qualifying? How cool is that? This is only your 2nd marathon - just knowing how much stronger you are has got to make you feel great!
If we are always trying to beat a "certain time", then our success or perceived failure will be measured only in the time on the clock, not in the experiences along the way. And after all, what makes you feel better?
Mary
Marathoners, you have the right to sleep in! :):) I would too after that success! Remember tho, regardless of weather and time, you know you tackle anything!!! Besides, does training ever stop? :):):)
For those that want to move on, there will be a group meeting at FitClub west to do the Frostbite route. If you don't want to join us this week, please do so the next few weekends until the Frostbite. We will be meeting at 6. But I do believe in the past there are also groups that meet at either 7 or 7:30 at Fitclub West on both Saturdays and Sundays as well. Wendy, you would know... which is it? :)
Thanks Anne~~~ I saw Jan and Duane last week. They told me to email them... I forgot all about it! :):):)
Oh and don't forget to bring doggy bones. Or as Chuck said "bring mace!" Beware of the wild country dogs! :):):) One year a dog sneaked out on us with his scary bark and I literally jumped in Deb M's arms and clawed her neck!!! Or wait... or was that the time the goat "baaaaa'd" us out on the Chatham trail? LOL!
The mace is not a bad idea. If you are in the area just past Jan's house and a brindle boxer shows up NAIL THAT SUCKER!!!!!!
"Boston isn't what is important "
Mary: I could not agree with you more!!!!! I love that line. It exactly sums up how I feel about running!
The HWGW really deserves big props for keeping it going through the fall! Great job. It makes me proud to know such a group of dedicated runners.
As for me...well, my job has completely taken over my life. I am ready for the election so I can get back to running. I have run once in the past two weeks (yep, it is a constant struggle to keep it going!). I cannot even imagine running a marathon right now...not even a half marathon...or a 10K for that matter!
Great job folks. Running races like Chicago, Indy, etc...really make all those hot/cold/windy/dreary/snowy/steamy/dark mornings trudging down Springfield streets worthwhile.
Welcome to the marathon club...you earned it!!!!
Thanks Tim - see what you started?
I'm looking forward to just running for fun and even though we're now "marathoners", I still feel like this rookie's got a lot to learn. It's quite a feeling knowing that I've met this challenge. It certainly wasn't always pretty - but hard fought battles rarely are.
Funny - I'm kinda lost trying to get back to my "normal" life. All the stress I was running from? Hmmm - it's all still here. Guess I've got more miles yet to run.....for now - my shoes are on the back porch - a little beat up, pretty dirty, and waiting for me to decide exactly what it is I want to do next.
See you all soon....
Mary
Well, I'm up for anything, although its been requested that I take a break for a while after my marathon is done. The 3-4 hour weekend runs are taking their toll.
I don't think I've said anything about this so I wanted to let you guys know. The new cell phones have some enhanced GPS functions. I think they use GPS and some assistance from multiple cell towers. BIM has put together a phone application that you can use to get GPS routes and splits from your phone. The great thing is that all this data is uploaded to a Web application that tracks it and shows you the splits and maps and even elevation! If your phone isn't one of the few that it works with you can still use the web application if you have a Garmin. It can import the Garmin files into the app and show you the same stats as with the phone. One of the things you can do is to publish your activies to a Blog. Here is mine over a few days, but it gives you an idea of what you get.
MyBlog
Here is the page that you can go to check it out.
Man guys, I just got over the marathon blues. I was so depressed yesterday, I didn't know what my problem was. I was a little lost like Mary stated. Glad to hear someone else is in a funk too. I think it was that this training consumed your every thought of the day and now it doesn't so that's why you seem lost. I don't have to worry about eating the right foods the night before a long run or if I go to a party, can I drink the night before a long run? "Just one maybe two if it's early enough. No, better not."
Today was the first day that I ran since the marathon and I do feel a little better. I'm going to try to cross train and run a couple times a week and see how it goes.
I'm going to volunteer for the jingle bell run so does anyone know who I should contact? Austin is going to run it so I will be there anyway.
Hope everyone is doing fine. Can't wait to see everyone again for the Sat. runs in a couple weeks. It will be fun to try the frostbite course because I've never done that course before. I have only run the 2 miler. I know, I was a wimp last year but this year I'm going to try it.
Oh and Kim, golf sounds great! I miss golf and I haven't really golfed in about 8 years. I did golf at pasfield in July with the SRRC group and had a blast. I really miss it. If we golf on Wednesdays we can go to Cinco de Mayo's afterwards and if we golf on Thursdays we can go to Xoxh's afterwards. They have specials those nights. If those nights don't work, heck, we'll find some place else with a special.
Jeremy, did you run your marathon yet? I forgot what marathon you were running. Why was it requested that you take a break? Are you injured?
Mary, remember you are not a "Rookie" anymore. You decided that you were going to call yourself something else. You said at the after party what you were going to call yourself but I had one to many beers and I can't remember what it was. Do you remember or did the wine effect you also? Maybe Russ will remember.
No I'm not injured (at least not so I can't continue). I had a problem several weeks ago with plantar faciitis (I think). But i think its mostly the time involved with it. I disappear for 3-4 hours on the weekend and then I have to take it easy and recover after the run. I think its just that my wife misses me and I think she was concerned that I would immediately start training for something else (I might have). That's not to say that I can't go out for an 8 mile run on a saturday morning. I think I might start up with the half-wits in Jan and try and help out with that, but that is really only a weekend commitment, right?
My marathon is Memphis and its 12/2. I just did my 18 miler today and so far I'm in good shape. The winds were brutal (25mph gusts), but I made it through without any serious pain. Since I've had one bout with heel/arch pain, at this point I'm more concerned about finishing it at all and I don't really care if I have to stop and walk every mile or 2 miles for a couple of minutes to do it.
Congrats on your 18 miler. If you can do an 18 with 25mph gusts, you can do a 20. You will finish the marathon and walking through the water stops helps out a lot. Helps clear the mind and then you are ready to go again.
Half Wits is Sat. mornings and T/Th nights in the park. Don't worry though, if you want you can just do the longer runs on Sat. T and Th are shorter runs and hills or whatever Tim decides to do. Tim Butler runs it so you might want to get with him because I don't know if it changes from year to year.
Good luck in your marathon if I don't see you until then and keep positive!
Two great weekends. The victory of finishing a marathon and the Cards winning the World Series! I had doubts about both earlier in the year. What next?
What next? The Cubs winning the world series!
Robin you did awesome baby, I'm proud of you!
Thanks Pam. And I hope you are right about the cubs winning next year. One thing about you cubs fans is that you never give up hope.
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