The Conservative Cave
The Bar => The Lounge => Topic started by: jendf on April 27, 2008, 05:32:17 PM
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A while back, bijou offered up a TOTD that asked what skill would we want that we don't currently have. I said that I would love to run in a race. A couple of posters were very encouraging and said I should do it. I took those encouraging words and along with my resolution to do stupid shit this year because I'm turning 30, I got off my duff and decided to do it.
So, about 8 weeks ago, I started training for my first 5K race. Training has been daunting, and amazing. I've discovered that with a little effort, my body can go farther and faster than I ever thought.
The first week of training was torture for me. I had to run 60 seconds and walk 90 seconds for a 20-minute period. Each week, the running intervals would increase and I would initially think there is no way I could do it. But I proved myself wrong every time. I was able to run a 14:00 mile the first time about 5 weeks after I started training. I was elated.
Today was race day. I ran in the 12th Annual Run for Literacy at the Westgate City Center. It's a stones throw away from the Coyotes' Arena and the Cardinals Stadium.
I knew I was a slow runner so I had the following goals in mind: 1) Come in under 45:00. 2) Beat at least some of the walkers. 3) Have fun.
I can proudly say that I reached ALL of those goals today!
The race was hard. It was hot. The temperature was only in the high 70's but we were running into the sun for a good portion of the race, so it felt much hotter. I had to walk some of it because I was simply too hot and tired to go much faster. I thought I had drank enough water the day before and morning of but I guess not. There was only one water station at around mile 2. I gladly took advantage of it.
The course was flat so I didn't have to navigate any hills. As I made my way along the course, I found my nemesis in a female power walker who was actually ahead of me for a considerable part of the race. I made her my sole focus for the rest of the race. I was determined to cross the finish line before the power walker. I did, but barely. On the last leg of the race, we were going straight into the sun again and I felt physically ill. I was considering how it would look if I pulled myself over and puked. But I kept it down and pushed forward.
My dad said a girl actually did puke as soon as she crossed the finish line. So I'm glad to hear it wasn't just me. I'm guessing a whole lot of the runners were dehydrated. I truly wasn't expecting to feel that hot. Lesson learned.
My whole family came out to support me and cheer me on which was so awesome.
I crossed the finish line at 41:38. I came in 201st place and 29th out of 30 in my age group (25-29). I don't know if it was because the race was small or what (about 600 participants), but the Announcer Guy was still announcing finishers when I made it. He said, "Bib number 196, Jennifer *********** is crossing the finish line now!" That felt good.
Post-race refreshments included a banana, a Rice Krispie bite, and water. Lots of water. And sitting in the shade. I did that for a while.
Then my whole family went to the ******* Barrel to celebrate. After a 2-hour nap, I feel a little better. And I'm already trying to decide what my next race will be.
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CONGRATS JEN!!!!!!!!!!!! I am in awe of you!!!! I got exicted just reading about your journey. You were in the right frame of mind and you powered through it. Good Job! You have lots to be proud of. And don't you look snazzy.
I just signed up for Team In Training. I will start my training in a couple of weeks. I'm petrified but I'm going to give it my best.
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CONGRATS JEN!!!!!!!!!!!! I am in awe of you!!!! I got exicted just reading about your journey. You were in the right frame of mind and you powered through it. Good Job! You have lots to be proud of. And don't you look snazzy.
I just signed up for Team In Training. I will start my training in a couple of weeks. I'm petrified but I'm going to give it my best.
Thanks! I've heard TIT is awesome. If I ever try a marathon, I will seriously consider training with them. Good luck on your training!
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Wow Jen, that is amazing! Congratulations for setting a goal and making good on it..... We are all very proud of you!
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Wow Jen, that is amazing! Congratulations for setting a goal and making good on it..... We are all very proud of you!
Thanks!
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Congrats.
I got worn out just reading your post. No 5k's for me. :cheersmate:
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Congrats Jen and you look really good too. :naughty:
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Quite the accomplishment Jen!! :)
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Congratulations, jendf, and keep it up!
It'll only get better!
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Thanks, everyone!
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Congrats Jen, H5 for you young lady. :cheersmate:
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Proud of you Jen! :clap:
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A while back, bijou offered up a TOTD that asked what skill would we want that we don't currently have. I said that I would love to run in a race. A couple of posters were very encouraging and said I should do it. I took those encouraging words and along with my resolution to do stupid shit this year because I'm turning 30, I got off my duff and decided to do it.
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Amazing what a few kinds words can do.
Bravo Jen! What a fantastic accomplishment!
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Awesome Jen! You and I have been on a similar quest--one I only shared in modshop so far. Been at this hardcore for about 3 months now(fitness goals) and started training to run specifically about 3 weeks ago. It is tough especially since I've never really liked running for the sake of running :rotf:
Good job!!!! Please keep us posted. I love seeing peeps reach goals like this!
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Jen, this is really awesome. I'm so proud of you for meeting your goals.