My Most Memorable Running Moment
Fall marathon season is here! Choosing to run that first marathon is a life-changing experience. For me, my first attempt at 26.2 was a test of will, a challenge of endurance and a lesson in love.
I was a college senior training for a marathon with friends. I had already raced several half marathons, but putting in the long training miles for the marathon distance was a much bigger challenge. As the months wore on, all of my friends quit training. I was discouraged, but my sort-of boyfriend convinced me to go for it anyway. In fact, he registered me for the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington D.C., a race that he was training to run.
I trained in earnest in the weeks leading up to the race, but as the final days approached, I was scared senseless. Would I be able to finish? Would I get a leg cramp or a side stitch? The night before the marathon, I knew I should have loaded up on carbs, but I was so worried that I couldn’t even eat dinner, a truly rare experience for me, a food aficianado!
My attitude changed as race morning dawned. I was filled with excitement as the starter’s gun blasted. The miles began to stretch by… a long moment by a lake, a tough crawl over a bridge, a choppy stride, uneven breathing, Yikes – a short but steep hill, Ouch – sports bra chafing, and finally, finally, A FINISH!
In just more than four hours, I crossed the line with aching legs and soggy hair. I was elated and amazed that I had really done it. Waiting with a sweaty embrace at the finisher’s chute, Derek, who is now my husband, had stood for more than an hour so he could cheer me on. I had someone to share in my excitement… someone who had passed up an opportunity for food and drink for himself so he could watch me fulfill my dream. I knew right then, anyone who would skip the beer tent to tell me that I looked beautiful after I had run for more than four hours, well, that was someone worth keeping.
Happy trails!
Jessica
*Here’s a reminder for subscribers… Bulk rate mail is not forwarded. If you change your address, you need to contact us so we can update your address. Keep in mind that our mailing list often goes to the printer three weeks before the issue arrives at your doorstep, so the sooner you can let us know, the more likely you are to get your magazine! Also, if you receive the magazine as part of a club membership, you need to contact your running club to get your address changed. Colorado Runner doesn’t keep lists of club members. We simply mail the list they provide to us for each issue. Thanks!*