While it doesn't seem like it should have been my first half (probably because I ran ATB this year!), the Army Run marked my first "official" half marathon!
It was a thrilling race to take part in...I was a bundle of nerves because I was honestly a bit unsure of how ready I was for it.
This summer, a big lesson I learned was: I'm not a summer-weather runner. With my little one, getting out the door in the morning during the week doesn't work AT ALL so by the time the evenings rolled around, I found it just too hot to put in the miles needed outdoors. So, I definitely did more treadmill time than I planned...but...all in all, I figured that I would do my best and stay optimistic.
The weather ended up being gorgeous....a bit overcast but cool. Some people at the start line were wearing long sleeves (I even saw a couple of touques and mittens!) but I stuck with capries and a tank...because I knew after the first few kms, I'd be just comfortable. I was right...probably around the 5 km mark, most people who had layers were peeling them off and tying their coats around their waists.
The route was beautiful...relatively flat with a few gradual inclines here and there. Seeing the injured soldiers running was nothing short of inspring. It was definitely a reminder that there really are no excuses for not getting your run in. These men and women are absoutely my heroes.
I didn't have a set game plan for the run--probably not a great idea--but I took short 30 sec walk breaks when I felt like I needed them (around every 2 kms) and kept my pace fairly steady and consistent. I crossed the finish line at 2:14:32!!!
I had no time goal really...earlier in the summer, my knee had started to bother me so I had started to slow my pace a bit...that having been said, I'm very happy with this time. While training for ATB, the first time I had attempted 21.1 km, I ran it in 2:29, a few months after that, I had ran it in 2:18 in a training run. I suppose in the back of my head I had wanted to try and crack 2:20 but I also went into the Army Run realistically knowing that I didn't have the mileage where I had hoped...and my only true goal was finish strong. I did finish strong...I felt great and was able to boot it in the last kilometer which is always a fabulous feeling!
Now to figure out what to sign up for next! ;)
