NCR Half Marathon

NCR Half Marathon - a PR

When I signed up for the NCR Half Marathon, I wasn’t sure if I’d race it or just run it for funsies. Shortly afterwards, Nick and I decided we were going to go away for Thanksgiving. That meant I would have to drive separately and head back a night early. After a couple of relaxing and fun days with the family, it was tough leaving them in our cozy mountain cabin for a race ⛰️

I couldn’t have possibly waited any later to decide to race or just use it as a long run with crowd support. I haven’t raced since this race 6 years ago, and haven’t run a road half marathon since February 2020. It was 27° at the start and I was reluctant to take off my sweatpants. I do like a good chilly start though 🥶

When it was go time, the downhill start felt spectacular! I got into a groove with my music and a mile in, I decided to just kept pushing. The next 4 miles were nearly a perfect pace for a PR. I felt so strong and was even smiling for the cameras 💪🏼

Around mile 11, I realized racing on flat pavement is HARRRD. My smile faded a bit but had to keep to my A goal (under 1:51) so I dug deep. Some aches creeped in and I told myself I couldn’t give up. I had made it this far and kept my family top of mind - I hadn’t left vacation early to miss my goal! Seeing so many incredible athletes was inspiring, including Forrest Gump aka Mike Wardian 🏃🏽

I thought about how grateful I am to be able to run. I also thought “at least I’m not swimming from Cuba to Key West” which is what I get for watching Nyad the night before. I did channel her tenacity though. No 🪼 or 🦈, thank goodness!

Official Chip Time: 1:50:09.5

I still got it 🙏🏼 Maybe I’ll do it again … in another 6 years 🤣

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