Right, I know. I stopped posting for a long time.
In my defense, I did teach a new course this semester (anyone interested in the genetics of the little things that live on your eyelashes?) and run a marathon.
That's me, yes # 1106, which may not impress real runners but I was pleased as punch. For anyone who didn't know, I started seriously running last year, and with the help of running and Weight Watchers, took off 35 pounds. I couldn't run a 1/4 mile when I started, but kept it up. I ran a half marathon last year. While I was standing at the starting line, I took a look at all the people with the blue numbers (the marathoners) and thought, why not me?
No reason, it turns out. A ton of training was done, with smelly laundry and nasty shoes and a very runny nose on icy Maine roads. Many warm baths. Many anxious nights thinking about the impending event.
We had a perfect day last weekend; 55 degrees F and sunny. A nice cool breeze (NOT a roaring wind like on the 2 other races I did this year). We lined up at the start and I have to admit, I was almost in tears with excitement and little fear. What if I couldn't do it? My last long race (20 miles) I'd run with a stomach bug and could barely finish. I wanted that finisher's medal! The gun sounded and we were off. Well, the real racers at the front were off. People in my bin had to wait more than 2 minutes to cross the starting line (they factor that into your time). But we finally surged forward and left the music and excitement behind.
Everything was GREAT, pre-mile 23. Great volunteers, terrific fans cheering us on, and lovely people to run with and have a chat. I was in love with running, in love with Providence, in love with everyone I saw. Huge smiles in all the event pictures (yes I'll buy some but can't post them). Then I got a little tired at mile 20 and slowed down a little -- no problem, still on a 5 hour pace.
Then, Mile 23. There was no matter to put mind over. No grindstone to put the nose to. I had hit The Wall. I'd heard about this, and I can tell you I never want to be there again. I literally had trouble with my vision and was dizzy. I stopped at an aid station where a very nice man got me a ton of gatoraide and had me sit down for a minute. Or ten. I'm sure he was thinking "this one's ready for the sag wagon." Then, I felt fine. I thought I could walk, and I was right. Walked to mile 24.5, then ran. And ran. And
passed people. Nearing the finish I could hear the music and crowds and I picked it up and made sure to skip across the finish line. Time: 5 hours, 33 minutes, 58 seconds.
Today is the first day I feel good afterwards -- no leg weakness or shoulder soreness -- and I'm planning on a short run. Nothing too much.
I really, actually do have a weaving post that's about ready, on finishing. Now that I've finished that race, it's appropriate!
