I drove to the Expo around 2 or 3 on Saturday. Driving really wasn't a problem but walking a couple of blocks to the Expo was a huge problem, for everyone. The sidewalks were slick as snot. I ended up walking in the median as best I could - ice over grass was easier than ice over cement. Thank goodness for boots! I met some really nic people in line at the Expo and the volunteers working there were just awesome.
By the time I got home from the Expo they had cancelled the Sunday Full Marathon and the Ultra but said everyone could run the Half. I felt really bad for those that had trained for those races and certainly understand being pissed at the weather. The start was delayed until 8am, hoping things would clear up a little more. Honestly part of me wished they had cancelled the whole thing...I really do not like the cold and wasn't looking forward to running in this messiness.
When I signed up for this race (it is my favorite) I was in great shape and felt awesome running...I was assigned to corral 2. Back when I signed up I felt certain <had no doubt really> I would do a sub 2 in this race. One injury later and that wasn't to be my reality this time. Mentally I told myself to just try to have fun and screw the time...besides, I hadn't even run more than 6 miles at a time since December 14.
I have been running in some pretty low profile shoes - the brand is Karhu. When I bought them the sales guy told me not to run long in them...but they seem to irritate my PF less than anything else so I made the decision to wear them anyway.
Getting to the corrals was another slick event but I didn't fall and didn't see anyone else fall, but I am surprised about that! I did see people shaking so bad they couldn't stop. I had 3 layers on top plus a trash bag and thermal insulated running pants, gloves, scarf, head band. I was cold but not terribly cold. I couldn't find my "pouch" I usually run with so I had to make due with what I had. This race photo is hilarious! Good Grief.
Honestly, I didn't enjoy much of the race. I kept telling myself to but it really wasn't that much fun. It was cold, dirty and wet. My feet were wet from about the start. It was misting on us the entire time. I had decided I would walk the hills, so I did. Right before the largest hill we got stopped by a train. A train. For several minutes. Truth be told though, I was kind of glad to see the train but stopping did make me colder.
Some miles I thought this is one of the silliest/stupidest things I have ever done. Some miles I thought this isn't too bad - it will be over soon. But most of the miles I knew that if this wasn't the 2nd year in a 3 year medal series and if I hadn't SAID I would do this, that I might been at home in bed. Well, I think that but when it comes down to it I am too cheap to throw away that entry fee.
When it was over, my time was 2:17. I was SO glad I did it and I finished it. I was pretty happy with the time too even though it probably is my worst time ever (will go back and look). Coming off an injury and lack of training - I will take it. And, no real PF issues and the shoes were fine for me. They are dirty as hell now but that's ok. I can build on this - thank you GOD!
Now, of course, I am ready to sign up for another one. Dallas rock N Roll half is in a couple of weeks (March 22) and they sent me an email for $60 off ..it is a cute medal....
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