Linda’s Soapbox

Last weekend I ran the Knoxville Marathon and finished with a time of 4:12:37.  An improvement over my earlier time to be sure, but it was still disappointing to me since I expected to do better, I know I can do better.

Yesterday I ran the Whiskey Marathon.    It’s a smaller event, less than 125 entrants, so I thought I’d try challenging myself by pacing some of the men instead of the women.   I was kinda surprised when I was able to keep up with them and even more surprised when I finished with a time of 3:57:24, good enough for 26th overall and and 1st for women.   I was right, I did have it in me to do better.  A win here doesn’t really mean all that much in the big scheme of things, but for me it was a personal victory- it’s just amazing how sometimes you can totally underestimate yourself.   Unfortunately, I didn’t meet the time I needed to qualify for the Boston Marathon this year (which turns out is 3:40:00).  I’m almost there, maybe next year.  It’s time for a much needed rest.

Well I did it, I completed my first marathon today.  4:18:56.  And now I’m a little tired.  But now I have a time to beat.  Yes, there will be a next time next month in St. Louis.  But on a sadder note, a guy from out of town died after he completed the marathon and I think he was the same age as me.  I really feel for his family.  Things like this always make you take a moment to evaluate your life.  I know I did.   Sigh.

I have to admit I didn’t expect people to be so friendly, but they are.  It makes a girl feel almost… welcome, that’s pretty cool.   

Thanks and take care guys!

Just checkin’ things out.  Heard good things about this place.