I crossed the finish line at 2:18. I’m not a fast runner (some would actually classify that as ‘jogging’), but you know what? I made it. When I signed up for the Seattle Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon a few months ago, my goal was to just finish the race. Time was not of importance – I merely wanted to complete the entire 13.1 miles without stopping. And I did. But what transpired from that goal has become so much more.
I have always said ‘I’m not a runner.’ I never understood why people would want to run for fun? In fact, I distinctly remember while on my honeymoon in Jamaica (2009), seeing another couple run every single morning along the beach (as my husband and I sipped mimosas and bloody mary’s). I remember thinking they were crazy…but now I get it. Not only has running been one of the best things I could do for my body physically, but mentally – a good run (+ vent session with your bff) is complete food for the soul. I am a better person when I run – plain and simple.
As miles were added each week, it baffled me that I could actually make it. I would come home to my husband and say ‘I ran 12 miles today?! Can you believe it?!’ I felt like I deserved a parade after every long run – like I was accomplishing an unimaginable feat. The week before the race we decided to run 13.3 miles just to make sure we could do it (this is actually not recommended by running professionals) but, honestly, it gave me the confidence going into race day – I did it once, I can do it again.
And I did. I ran 13.1 miles on one of the most beautiful days in Seattle, along with 18,000 of my closest friends. The day was purely magical (sounds silly, but it’s true). I remember thinking when I saw the Mile 10 sign how amazing I felt. I knew at that moment, I found something in myself that is here to stay. I am officially hooked and already planning my next half marathon.
My new goal is to improve my time. I had more fuel in my tank when I crossed the finish line, so I know I could have pushed myself a bit more – frustrating in some ways, but also gives me that spark to train harder.
On race day and during the many miles in preparation, I had two FAVORITES:
- CLIF Shot Bloks – I used one packet on race day. I typically use 3-6 bloks every hour of running. I prefer Tropical Punch because it has a little kick of caffeine. :)
- Brooks Running Shoes – I trained wearing the PureGrit and decided to wear them on race day since I had zero issues (aka never lost a toenail or had a blister). They are more of a trail shoe (which I LOVE) but am excited to try the PureFlow for my next race, as it has less traction and may help improve my speed!
Obsessed with CLIF Shot Bloks!
My first half-marathon shoes! {Brooks PureGrit} #RunHappy #ThankYouRunning
Are doing a 5K, Half or Full Marathon this summer? Share in the comments!
*Brooks Running graciously provided my race entry for the Seattle Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon. The opinions expressed here represent my own, which I take great pride in providing pure honesty…because I’m OBSESSED with sharing the Good!
XoXo Portia