Boston Marathon 2019
We train with a goal. We train with a vision. We train to prepare our minds and muscles for the the grueling physical demands that lie ahead; however, life’s harsh reality is that we cannot thoroughly prepare ourselves for each and every obstacle in our path. All we can do is forge ahead with grit, courage, and determination.
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To preface, this was my third appearance at the Boston Marathon . . . and my first appearance in TEN YEARS! Two babies and a few injuries later, I was excited for my return.
The bulk of an athlete’s race day experience is shaped during training - WEEKS before the event. I felt confident in my training program and approached race day feeling strong and ready, despite a lingering foot injury that flared up around mile 16. In addition to the physical training, I also fueled properly and consistently slept the recommended eight hours.
Race morning began with a 6 AM alarm. I jumped out of bed, performed my pre-race routine, and caught the athlete bus to Hopkinton Athletes’ Village. I arrived with just enough time to wait in line for the port-o-john, walk to the start, make a second stop at the port-o-john (just to be safe!) and stretch.
As I stretched, I could tell that my energy levels felt lower than usual; however, I pushed the mental obstacles aside and prepared myself to compete. The sky was clear, the sun was shining, and I was ready to run.
The start gun signaled my wave’s mass exodus from the corral at 10:55 AM. I started strong, holding a brisk pace for the first several miles; however, the temperature began to climb as I approached mile 8. I developed a certain uneasiness in my stomach, but I pressed onward spending the next two miles trying to diagnose this odd sensation.
I discovered my answer at mile 10. My stomach turned upside down and I began vomiting uncontrollably, which unfortunately did not cease until mile 22. At that point, I felt as if I had nothing left but promised myself that I would finish - whatever it took.
I spent the final 4.2 miles soul searching. I dug DEEP for the strength to finish, and I remain forever grateful for the encouraging words of spectators and athletes around me that day. 4 hours and 24 minutes later, I crossed the finish line.
Boston 2019 was not a PR. In fact, it was my my second slowed marathon EVER. That said, I learned invaluable lessons both for myself and for my clients:
-- You can’t control every circumstance but you CAN control how you prepare and react
-- Physical strength will get you to the start line. Mental strength will get you to the finish line.
-- Challenge yourself. You'll never know what you’re capable of until you prove it to yourself.