The Marathon Rematch

I've decided it's time to face the Marathon Beast again.

Most people just hope to finish a marathon. My goal is to at least start this one. This will be my first time running a marathon, but my second time training to that end. Due to unexpected illness, things didn't quite go according to plan last time. (Read about my Almost Marathon experience here and here!)

It's been hanging over me like late homework, like to-do list items left uncrossed, like a dominant seventh chord unresolved. This stage of my life, however, is devoted to my academic and pianistic pursuits, so I've had to say no to many days on the trails.

My summer will be dedicated to learning my graduate recital music and to part-time teaching. It's the prime time to also focus on mileage and running goals.

My goal? Start and finish a marathon. Is that asking too much?

I don't want to count my chickens before they're hatched, but I'm thankful to say my health has been much improved over the last year and a half. Graduate school notwithstanding, I still have energy. And besides, we all know the Weimaraner needs daily exercise.

Here's the part where it gets crazy.

I'm registered for the Mt. Sneffels Marathon (don't laugh!) in Ouray, Colorado. Ouray is called the "Switzerland of the U.S," and the John Wayne classic, True Grit, was filmed in its mountains.
Colorado! Yes, the girl with Florida gills is registered for a race that takes place at 7000+ feet. 
(What was I thinking?!)

According to my research, we should be arriving with plenty of time to adjust to the altitude. Tyler and I are planning a vacation that just so happens to coincide with this race. We have a bed and breakfast booked, and we can't stop looking at photos of this place!

Photo: David Huddleston

Time goals are out of the question. Some of the literature I've read said I can expect to run up to a minute per mile slower! Wow! No wonder elite athletes train at high altitude. The best advice I've been given is to run based on effort and forget the stats. Listen to my body and pace accordingly. Someone else also recommended running in the heat, as a way to counterbalance the altitude. Texas shouldn't disappoint on that front!

Training doesn't officially start until after finals, but I may have "unofficially" begun this week.

Running significantly helps with end-of-semester blues. Thankfully, I've kept my staple weekend long run, so I've maintained half marathon shape. So far, I've had no trouble jumping into structured training.

Our "Heartbreak Hill" at mile 8 around the lake

We have a couple upcoming races in preparation for the biggie. One involves glow sticks, and the other involves a lake swim. Both involve my husband, which makes me the happiest! Speaking of Tyler, he rocked his first triathlon. I'll save that story for him to tell. Our Tyler Tuesday feature is way overdue anyway...