It is crazy how much can happen in one year.
I started 2013 feeling doubtful about my ability to run (and survive) a half marathon. And what happened? I finished two.
I started 2013 in my “solo runner” mindset, convinced that it’s better to race alone so I can “run my own race.” But now I realize that was incredibly short-sighted of me, because having training partners and pals to warm up with and chat with on race day is incredibly helpful and motivational … not to mention a lot of fun! This year I’m happy to report I completed nearly every race with friends and/or Dr. G.
I started 2013 with plans to run a sub-25 5K and beat my previous 10K time. Well, I came really close (like two seconds, in the case of my 5K time), and while I didn’t accomplish those goals (yet!) I DID finish first in my age group for the first time in that particular distance! Woot!
It just goes to show that running — just like life — is unpredictable and full of surprises. While I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t slightly disappointed that I didn’t accomplish all of my 2013 goals, I will admit that I am also pretty damn proud of myself. I can’t wait to see what 2014 has in store!
But before I do, I’m following the lead of some of my fellow running bloggers, and taking a look back at the amazing year that was 2013. (Here’s a link to last year’s recap)
Races participated in: 12
Distances:
5K: 6 (well, technically 7, if you include the zombie obstacle run)
7 miles: 1
10K: 2
Half marathon: 2
New-to-me distances: Half marathon and 7-miler
Hottest race: Falmouth Road Race (gotta love a coastal — read: no shade — race that starts at 10am on a Sunday in August!)
Coldest race: Tie between Shamrock Shuffle 5K and Flippin’ Fun Turkey Trot (Mid-March in Boston and late November in Penn. — I think that says it all!)
Bucket List race: Falmouth Road Race
States run in: Massachuetts, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania
Participation medals received: 3
Trophies earned: 1
PRs: Since the half marathon and seven mile distances were new to me, I guess you could say I technically ran a personal best! Like I said earlier, I came sooooo close to beating my previous 5K time, but didn’t quite make it. However, I did set a couple of course PRs along the way (Gaspee 5K, James Joyce Ramble, etc.). Bring it on, 2014!
Placed in age group: Placed 1st in Milford 5K Road Race and Walk, and placed 3rd in the Military Peer Support 5K (love those local races!)
Races run alone: 2
Races run with others: 10
Best Race Experience: Boston’s Run to Remember half marathon. Ahh, where to start? One year ago, this seemed like such an unattainable goal. But as soon as I took my first step on that misty and cool May morning, I knew I could do it. Not only did I run a strong race, I enjoyed myself every single step of the way and crossing that finish line was a feeling I will never, ever forget. And when you factor in the timing of the race (only one month after the Marathon bombing) and the fact that it honors Massachusetts law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty? It was truly the most meaningful race I’ve ever participated in.
Most Fun Race Experience: Panic in the Dark Zombie Run
Best New Piece of Gear: My Athleta Cairo Bare to Run Tights
Proudest Running Moment #1:Finishing my first half marathon
Proudest Running Moment #2: Coming in first in my age group!
Proudest Running Moment #3: Being featured (twice!) by Women’s Running magazine!
How would you recap your year in running? Did you accomplish your goals? Surprise yourself at all?
Nicole@RunningWhileMommy says
You had a fantastic year! Loved reading along and looking forward to following you in 2014.
Mary Larsen says
What an amazing year – wow with all of these running posts I’m starting to get a bit inspired! Maybe I’ll need to lace up my sneakers in 2014 🙂
Chelley @ AIsForAdelaide says
Great year! You’re so inspiring… I hope to get my stats back up at some point! Good luck in 2014!