My own best just got better!

Last week, I called one of my running coaches (thanks Dan!) for some advice on running my first 1/2 marathon since last May. (I had a terrible running portion of a 1/2 Ironman last spring, and am starting up my training methodology and program for a "do-over" at the Wildflower Triathlon, May '08.)

We talked about pacing, relaxation and focus...and that conversation paid off! Click on the picture below to see my "best pacing ever!"

The day started off cool (temperature in the low 50's...chilly for us Californians!) and by the time we left the sun was just starting to break through the marine later.

Here is a short slideshow of race day...

We left Ojai after stopping at the Coffee Shop for Jodi's latte, arriving in Santa Barbara by 7:30am (the race started at 8:30). After registration, seeing some old friends, and a warm-up run, I was ready to go.

The course started by climbing a hill, up away from the beach and Santa Barbara City College (where I went to school in the early 90's!) toward Hope Ranch. The first mile was a tough one, I went slow because I was lined up near the middle of the pack. When we started the race it took about 2 minutes to get spread out enough to really start running!

At the beginning of the race, I had planned to run 8 minute miles. That would be a good workout, I figured, and give me something to work with for the rest of the year. By mile three, however, I was feeling so good I picked the pace up a bit.

Miles 4, 5, 6 were fun...lots of turns in the road, and many good-natured people still talking as they ran. However, something happens in a half marathon around mile 7 or 8. It gets quiet. People don't talk as much, they don't laugh, they just pick up and plant their feet, over and over and over again.

Then, at miles 9 and 10, it gets exciting. Not in a group sense, but individually. That's where people begin to "keep up" with each other, or some runners make a break to get up to the next fastest runners. I noticed it happen for me right as a approached the aid station with just 3 miles to go.

I sped up my pace to "catch" the next crowd, and behind me someone moved to keep up with me. For two miles we kept the same pace (he was at least 6 inches taller than me so his leg stride was a bit different!). Then, at mile 12 he took off. I bet he ran that last mile at 6:30 or so, I held back and did my normal (for that race) "seven and change" mile.

When I crossed the finish line, I know my smile told the story. To be honest, I can't believe it. This was my longest run in over 5 months. I've been training by using shorter, interval-type workouts as well as doing a lot of cross training (elliptical trainer, bike, hiking, floor and weight exercises). And, this morning as I write this mini race report, I feel so good all over. I'm planning to run a 1/2 marathon a month between now and next May...I have big plans for Wildflower Triathlon!

Comments

[Dan]

Sharon, I wrote an article awhile back on getting into running. A few people posted it online at www.allaboutnews.com/vc.php?a=y&b=13&i=84&u=bbrady and www.realtown.com/adurbin/blog/mile-high-musings/run-for-your-life.

Otherwise, www.runnersworld.com has plenty of information about getting into running. The key thing is to take action. Buy shoes, find some friends who want to run, and get out there and start doing it! You'll know soon enough if you are hooked.

[Sharon]

Jason, it does indeed look like you're having a good time, all the way through. Can you please share a piece of advice with me? How do you recommend getting started at running as an exercise habit? I want to get in shape but I'm just not sure how to begin.

[Dan]

Excellent, Jason! Awesome effort and time! What amazes me is that you are smiling in EVERY picture before, during and of course after the race! Looks like you were having a great time every step of the way!