Team /var/(long)run

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January 14, 2014 by Amy B

It had been so long since I’d run farther than a 10K that I had to look up on my run calendar to see when it was.

November 10. Seven miles.

Thanks to Josh for figuring out a route for us to run

and for Zoe for pacing and kicking my ass.

I’d approached this run with a pretty carefree attitude, but truth: seven miles was tough. Granted, our route ran us through some sloppy roads that slowed us down. Overall the pace was a little under 10:30, which is truly an average of some faster sections and slower plods. Total time: 1:12:50.

I’ll be honest – I could’ve run farther if I had to, but I was pretty happy to be back at my car. I’ve also made a new friend.

I guess I win the sweaty head award.

2014 is supposed to be the year for setting audacious goals,  I’m waffling back and forth about committing to the Green Bay Marathon in May. Here’s what’s holding me back:

• I’ve never scheduled a marathon that early in the year. Grandma’s was always in June, the only other “early” marathon I’ve attempted, and I didn’t train for it. Winter had a lot to do with it.
• I know what a marathon takes when it comes to training. It’s a huge commitment of time and energy.
• Winter. Did I mention winter? There’s over 3 feet of snow on the ground right now and we’ll have snow here until April, maybe May. Where the hell am I going to get in long runs?
• I’ve always used Hal Higdon’s plans as my go-to training plans, but after ten years, I’m looking for a change. Not only do I want to run faster, but I’d like to feel properly prepared so that I’m not completely falling apart between miles 13-20.

So the draws?

• It’s a race I haven’t done before. Sure, I’ll be running Twin Cities again this year, but a new course might be the change I need.
• If I take the plunge, I’d commit myself to going out slowly – I suck at this – and perhaps use this as a test race for strategy for Twin Cities.
• I’m told the course is flat. I’m totally okay with flat.
• I’d be taking the trip with Team /var/run. Children-less. It would be nice to spend an adult weekend with adults for once.
• It would be a new challenge, something that right now, though not impossible, seems like it’s going to take a lot of work. Am I up for it?