My Future as a Marathon Runner

Does my future as a marathon runner look bleak? I don't know, but I am excited! This blog post is simply a chance for me to throw my aspirations in the air and see what becomes of them!

On October 9, 2010 I completed my first 5K at UND's Homecoming Race. As you can see below I finished smiling, even though for the last mile I was in a lot of pain as a result of nerves I had some major gastrointestinal distress. They also measured incorrectly, which is normal apparently. So I actually ran 3.6 miles and finished in 35 minutes. It was a nerve racking, but amazing day. I also cannot even begin to tell how amazing it felt to have so many people rooting for me! As I rounded the last corner my heart was seriously on wings, I felt it lift in my chest (it sounds lame, but it was so real) just knowing that people were waiting to congratulate me. I never imagined how many people would want to know how it went, and how many would support me along the way as I trained. For these people, I am incredibly grateful.

Of course, after such an amazing run, I am now possibly addicted, but hey, it's not cocaine right? Thus I have been in training since one day after my first 5K for the next! I am officially in my fourth week of training, and have four weeks until The Jingle Bell Run on December 4, 2010 in Fargo, ND. which funds the Arthritis foundation. I am currently deciding whether or not I want to captain a team, or register as an individual. I guess I'll see how many are willing to run in December. Either way I look forward to another run, and a charitable run at that!



Well, now is the point where you may be questioning my sanity. Why? Because I am seriously debating the Freeze Yer Gizzard Blizzard Run which is on January 15, 2011 in International Falls, MN. this will be a bit of a drive, but not bad. This run is literally outside in northern Minnesota in January (one of the coldest months of the year for those who are unaware). I am thinking this will probably be another 5K, but we'll see how spunky I am, maybe I'll go for a 10K for this. I imagine that it will be unbearable at times, but what a race to attempt, not to mention finish! I reserve the right to brag if I do this and survive!





The next race I want to actually run the 10K for sure. That is the Lace Up Against Breast Cancer Run in Rochester, MN. I don't look forward to the drive, but I really want to do this one! All of the proceeds go to research at the Mayo Clinic. I cannot tell you what a great opportunity this is! So, I look forward to running outdoors again on February 13, 2011.

And finally the end of my goals thus far, the list could continue of course. The Fargo Marathon, or rather I would like to do a 10K for this one. This is on May 21, 2011 and it is huge! They have like four races, plus tons of other stuff to do and see for like 4 days. Last year was their 6th year, and they had 20,000 participants. Why would I not want to join in?!



So, it is clear that my aspirations and goals are great, but I will meet them with nothing but hope. Hope to see just how far I can go if I never hold back...


PS: My dear friends, I would love supporters for long trips, and encourage you all to volunteer at these events, they are greatly needed. Also, those of you feeling inspired, run with me!