What does a runner do on her double nickel birthday when it falls on a Sunday and there is a local half marathon nearby? Run of course
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As I get older I realize more and more that running is all about a journey! So turning 55 is really not all that bad. After all, it’s just a number right.
I ran this race completely by feel which made it even more fun! The miles just seemed to fly by. With only about two miles to go I asked a fellow runner who had been with me for most of the way, “Do you know what pace we are running?” She replied “around an 8:25 average”. Hmmm…not bad for an old lady. But wait, age is just a number right
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Almost immediately after our conversation at about mile 11, I felt my first cramp in my calf. I did my best to push on just fast enough to avoid more cramps. It was kind of a bummer, but I didn’t let it ruin my fun.
I am not sure if it was the hills, hydration or something else that caused my cramping, but like any other runner, I started to analyze.
I was in meetings all day both Friday & Saturday and the water was terrible. Unfortunately I didn’t bring more H2O with me! Stupid mistake I know. Maybe I didn’t drink enough of my electrolyte drink? More Magnesium? That’s it. Good grief…why do runners do this?
But the good news is, I felt awesome and I still managed to finish in 7th with a 1:55 at the age of 55. Not even close to a PR since a few years ago I ran the same course in a 1:49 placing 6th in the 50-54 age group. Yeah for consistency!
Oh well…the important thing is, I had fun just running by feel without a watch. I set all rules aside and didn’t look at my heart rate or pace and just ran. One of the funnest races ever!
So over all I am pleased and it was a GREAT day! I celebrated by stopping at one of my favorite new Cafes, Rose Street Patisserie. I love a good brunch after any race and this one didn’t let me down. Asparagus quiche, scone and an amazing up of fresh roasted coffee. HEAVEN!
I love to run and so running on my birthday for another one of these fun medals, a yummy brunch, and than shopping at one of my favorite stores, Athleta, spells Happy Birthday to ME!
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