Can I?

Another week of training.  It was actually fun and easy until today.  I ran 12 miles in 2:09.  Coach Jeff wanted me to go faster but it just didn't happen.  I did keep my heart rate just under 160 bpm.  And then I started wondering if I could really do a marathon.  Doubts invaded my head at the finish of mile 12 as I realized I wasn't even at half way for the real race.  I drove home wondering if I was crazy and as I limped up the two steps into the house I figured I was dillusional.  I was tired, needed a nap and was cranky.  Bob went to work.  I was wondering where my support team was.  Negative thoughts were ricocheting, my body was moaning.  What did I do?  I got online and registered for the Honolulu Marathon, Dec 9, 2012.  I guess that makes it official and me totally crazy.

Help!

It was beautiful along the Centennial Trail this morning!

Today was my long, hard 11 mile run. I was supposed to keep my heart rate around 155 and probably do a 10 min. mile pace.  It was more like 11 minute miles.  I finished in 2 hours.  20 years ago that would have been slow, now it was just about all I could do.  So I have gotten older but at least I can do 11 miles.

What I figured out during today's journey is that I need a support crew.  I need people to tell me that I can do this.  I questioned why I am even trying around mile 11 and also again about 2 hours later when I needed a nap.  I guess I just need that cheering voice that affirms I am not too old, not too out of shape and not too crazy to try this now.  I have always thrived on the positive input from all my friends, family and students.  I really need it these next few months!

Funny

I'm a Runner

SLOW/fast

Technology sure has changed training.  Last week I ran 3 miles and was supposed to keep heart rate under 125 BPM It took me 42 minutes!  Then I had to run 10 miles as fast as I could: 1hour 46 minutes. I am not bored yet.  This week is harder.  I told coach Jeff I didn't like to run fast.   "You have to get used to running fast, its the only way you get faster."  Oh, yeah, I suppose he has a point...

Learning Experiences

Things I've learned already:

1)  I do much better when held accountable to someone

2)  Working out was easier in my 30's

3)  I can't cheat because of the technology of GPS plus heart rate monitor (Oh, yes, I would)

4)  There is nowhere flat in Spokane (no, I will not run on a track)

5)  My brother knows more than me and he is 7 years younger!

Marathon, here I come!

On my 59th birthday this past June, I decided to run 13 miles.  I managed 10.5 and ended up with heat stroke and disappointment.  That's when thoughts of marathons started invading my brain.  I haven't done one in 12 years.  My dad did his first marathon at 60.  My sister, Carol, and friend, Nathan, are training for the Ironman next June.  So, inspired, I tried to do some more training and could not get past 12 miles.  That's when I emailed Jeff.  He is an Ocean Safety Lifeguard, he was the kayak support for Penny Palfrey's historic 68 mile open ocean swim in the Cayman Islands and again for her attempt to swim from Cuba to Florida in this past June.  He is a triathlete coach and also he is my brother.

Very willing to help, he is now training me for the Honolulu Marathon in December-from a distance.  He lives in Hawaii and I live in Washington.  With technology, it is easy.  All I needed was a GPS watch, a heartrate moniter, and an account on his training site.  I have those and am on my way to being a marathoner again!