Race week sorta snuck up on me….again.

2013 The Woodlands Half Marathon - PR!

It's that time….race week time.  I've been looking forward to The Woodlands Half Marathon for awhile and while that hasn't changed, my expectations for race day have.

I had high hopes for this race.  Coming off the NYC Marathon and then having fun at the Houston Half, I thought I would be able to refocus my efforts and train like a beast so I could finally achieve my sub 2hr half marathon.  Life sort of got in the way. And I'm ok with that!

Back in December I applied for a new role at work….a promotion.  I had hoped to hear something right away but the process seemed to take forever and it was late January before I finally was offered the position.  My transfer date was 2/1 and that's when I started transitioning to my new role.  I've got significant more responsibility and I am responsible for a team of 13 (and we're hiring 2 more).  I got my workouts in but they were not quality workouts.  And some of my long runs had to be cut short because I simply didn't have the hours in the day to do everything.  I was surprised by my attitude about the whole situation.  In the past, I would've stressed myself out and been so upset that I wasn't setting myself up for the best race.  Today I look at it as an opportunity to go out and enjoy something I truly love doing….running and being outside!  I know I can run 13.1 miles with no problem.  I've had solid runs the past few days and even did a speed workout that consisted of 6x400 all at a 7:30min/mile pace or faster. It's not impossible for me to have a good race.  Is it possible to have a big PR?  Yes but maybe not likely.  I also have to remind myself that technically, I'm taking a much needed break right now and should be focusing on building strength as I get ready to start IMAZ training.  Go with the flow, baby.

So with that, I'll be out there this weekend and I am sure to have a big smile on my face.  I'm going to do my very best and am probably going to make it hurt a little bit.  But at the end of the day, I'm not going to be disappointed if my time doesn't start with a 1!  There will always be another half marathon.  :)

Happy training!!!!