Phase One: Complete

This weekend, I successfully completed my first half marathon. Not only did I survive the act of carrying myself 13.1 miles, but I completely crushed even my most ambitious personal goal of beating two hours, finishing in 1:55:00. Looking back at my nearly four-month training calendar, I don't regret one workout or rest day. Building up my mileage was definitely a challenge, but I now trust that I am capable of sticking to a schedule and building strength for the marathon. I am shocked to see that I somehow overlooked the fact that I ran nearly 100 miles in July, and again in August, despite my knee injury.

Though the last four miles were pretty rough (especially since I didn't see the mile markers for 11 or 12), there was no doubt in my mind throughout the race that I could maintain a constant effort until the end. Though I'd never done a long run at that pace, my speed workouts (along with the knowledge that I would have some time off after I finished) kept me going. I remember glancing at my watch just after mile 10 and being amazed that I could run 10-minute miles to the finish and still break 2 hours. Even better, we really did get Twizzlers, and I didn't experience even one second of knee pain.

Today, I turn in my official application to run for the Bottom Line marathon team, "Team Go Far." Thank you all for your support so far, and I apologize in advance for the fundraising blast that's about to start. Hopefully what you've read so far has helped convey the importance of helping more of our students in Massachusetts get in, graduate, and go far.