Woah, sorry about that little hiatus, blogger world. I've been busy earning a promotion at work (yay!), and I haven't had time to share my latest running endeavors.
Well, some may recall one of my goals for 2013 was to start pacing marathons. In April I was invited to join the Utah Race Pacers--the local team who covers primarily marathons. When the chance came to sign up for Provo City, I jumped on the 5:00 spot.
Luckily I am familiar with the race--I ran the half marathon last year, which covers the first part of the course. Two years ago I ran the half marathon, which at that time was the second half of the course. Even though I hadn't attempted the full yet, I felt confident tackling the route.
I have to be honest, I was nervous going into this race. I know I am more than capable of running a 5:00 marathon, but every worst case scenario kept popping into my brain: What if I cramp up? Can I really maintain an even effort the whole race? What if I miss my 30-second finishing window? etc.
When that starting gun went off, I realized all I could do was take a deep breath, trust my training and all my previous pacing experience, and go for it.
In less than five miles, my anxiety had completely subsided. I found my rhythm, and had absolutely no problems holding that steady pace for the full 26.2 miles. I crossed the finish line in 4:59:40!
There is one thing I will do differently in future full marathon pacing, and that's wearing my SPIbelt. I always carry two extra GUs when I'm pacing as well as extra safety pins and hair ties in case any of the other runners find themselves in need. In the full marathon though, I realized I should have carried more supplies like Ibuprofen, Vaseline, and Bandaids. Even with such a small event like Provo City, I came across two runners who were in need of these things, and I felt horrible I couldn't help them out.
But besides that one small change, I am thrilled my first experience went so well! I can't wait to take on Utah Valley in two weeks as a full marathon pacer!
No comments:
Post a Comment