2) to bear without resistance or with patience
3) to admit of; allow
4) to continue to exist; last
5) to support adverse force or influence of any kind; suffer without yielding; suffer patiently
6) to have or gain continued or lasting acknowledgment or recognition, as of worth, merit or greatness
If you are an avid VERBS reader (Hi Mom!), you may recall my love/hate/growing relationship with running. If so, you will be just as surprised as I am at this post.
Last year I shared my 8k experience. It was the first time I ran a race longer than a 5k and the first time I really had to run alone. Despite the fact I wasn't trilled about it as it was happening, I finished that run with a key take-away: "finding you are capable of more than you thought is a super cool feeling." Ever since that run, I've noticed a little voice in the back of my mind that keeps telling me to go further.
An 8k opening up the idea of running distance plus with a friend who loves to run equals me registering for a 15k. I figured I would have plenty of time to train (don't I always say that?) and it would be good for me to listen to that voice, try something new and test my endurance.
An 8k opening up the idea of running distance plus with a friend who loves to run equals me registering for a 15k. I figured I would have plenty of time to train (don't I always say that?) and it would be good for me to listen to that voice, try something new and test my endurance.
As usual, the race snuck up on us and we were one week out. ONE WEEK and I had yet to see if I could even run 9 miles. So figuring we would have enough time to overcome any soreness in the coming week, we set out to endure 9 miles.
This will sound crazy -- but this test run will remain as one of my all-time favorite runs, ever. Roz and I set out for Greenlake just before dusk approached (yes, I promise I ran with mace in my hand!). The welcoming Greenlake atmosphere was calming -- as I was a little nervous about what my impending run was going to feel like. Once we got down to the lake, we took off. The first three miles were a breeze (that distance I had trained for...). As we approached the spot where we began my legs felt stronger than ever and I was really excited-- I had never kept going past this point! The second time around (6 miles) felt solid. Running wasn't as easy, but my pacing felt good and sustainable -- I was being patient. I chose to signal for a quick 30 second walk. Big mistake. As we changed pace I could feel how heavy my legs had become over the first six miles. I knew I needed to finish the last 3 mile lap but I really did not want to pick back up.
The last lap was hard and completely dark -- which was a beautiful sight! I had never run in the dark or seen Greenlake like this in the dark. I had to feel this run, not distract myself with sights. Mile 7 took all my mental strength to start running again, mile 8 brought a very slow pace, and mile 9 brought the pain. By the end of the run I was probably "running" slower than most people walk -- but I was still going.
When we finished running, I was elated -- running (practically) the whole time. As we walked (read: hobbled) to the car, I couldn't believe we had done it! It wasn't the most beautiful form or the fastest time -- but I knew I could complete 9 miles! Then it was time to warm up, and celebrate with some Pho!
This will sound crazy -- but this test run will remain as one of my all-time favorite runs, ever. Roz and I set out for Greenlake just before dusk approached (yes, I promise I ran with mace in my hand!). The welcoming Greenlake atmosphere was calming -- as I was a little nervous about what my impending run was going to feel like. Once we got down to the lake, we took off. The first three miles were a breeze (that distance I had trained for...). As we approached the spot where we began my legs felt stronger than ever and I was really excited-- I had never kept going past this point! The second time around (6 miles) felt solid. Running wasn't as easy, but my pacing felt good and sustainable -- I was being patient. I chose to signal for a quick 30 second walk. Big mistake. As we changed pace I could feel how heavy my legs had become over the first six miles. I knew I needed to finish the last 3 mile lap but I really did not want to pick back up.
The last lap was hard and completely dark -- which was a beautiful sight! I had never run in the dark or seen Greenlake like this in the dark. I had to feel this run, not distract myself with sights. Mile 7 took all my mental strength to start running again, mile 8 brought a very slow pace, and mile 9 brought the pain. By the end of the run I was probably "running" slower than most people walk -- but I was still going.
When we finished running, I was elated -- running (practically) the whole time. As we walked (read: hobbled) to the car, I couldn't believe we had done it! It wasn't the most beautiful form or the fastest time -- but I knew I could complete 9 miles! Then it was time to warm up, and celebrate with some Pho!
Race day came and I ran my firsk 15k (Hot Chocolate 15k to be exact): 5k split 32:06 / 10k split 1:06:09 / net time 1:37:29 (pace 10:28). It may have been slow and steady (on a terrible course and not ideal weather) but I did it! I was so thankful to have Roz running by my side (read: in front of me) and Sebastian waiting for me at the finish line -- those two rock my world. It definitely helped to reward ourselves with hot chocolate, fondue and then a breakfast feast!
Just like the 8k opened up the idea of distance, the 15k opened up the idea of a half. If I can run 9 miles I can run 13.1, right (ok...that's a stretch)? So I would like to announce that Roz and I have signed up for the See Jane Run half marathon ("I run for chocolate and champagne)" in July! Before that I will also run the Seahawks 12k, Cosmic Run 5k and the Emerald City 10k. The quest for medals has begun!
If you have ever thought about testing yourself, do it! Sign up for an 8k, 10k, 15k, or half and see what you can ENDURE!
Ps. If you are wondering, the bib holder was a Christmas present from my sister and you can find them HERE!
If you have ever thought about testing yourself, do it! Sign up for an 8k, 10k, 15k, or half and see what you can ENDURE!
Ps. If you are wondering, the bib holder was a Christmas present from my sister and you can find them HERE!
2 comments:
Yayyy!!! Congrats Shannon! So proud of you! Just wait until you do 13.1 and think, "Hey, maybe I should double this distance and just do a full!" ;) Good luck with training!
I know how hard running distance can be, it takes a strong person both mentally and physically...something i am admittedly not and you clearly are. Keep up the great work, you're dedication to whatever you set your mind to is so admirable!
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