Hello Everyone,
I’m very excited about finishing my first ½ marathon (13.1 miles) last Saturday, March 17th, 2007. I’ll have pictures soon on the “Runnin’ Down a Dream” page of my website. The pictures are supposed to be ready this week.
The Six Tunnels ½ Marathon is a historic trail that was once a railroad track used to take supplies to the workers of Hoover Dam. The trail has since been converted to a pedestrian path, which is fairly flat in most areas. It leads the way through Six Tunnels and back twice, and one loop through a more treacherous area. This area (between miles 6 and 9) included loose gravel pits, ditches and rocks to avoid, in addition to a hill. These obstacles made the event more interesting, challenging and fun.
The race was held on St. Patrick’s Day, so of course there was a Leprechaun running with us that we could try to catch. The Leprechaun turned out to be a 62 year old “runner” dressed as a Leprechaun with long lean muscular legs. He was too fast for me!
It was a beautiful day, about 80-85 degrees and the race took place on a historic trail around Lake Mead. The scenery was absolutely gorgeous, and did a fine job of keeping be occupied. I did manage to keep an eye on where I was stepping at the same time, however. I was tired by the end, but managed not only to finish in under three hours, but also injury and blister free. I have a cool coffee mug and T-shirt to commemorate. I can’t wait to see the pictures!
I’m in recovery this week; my muscles were a little sore the first three days. I attempted a 2 mile recovery walk/jog on Tuesday, but my right hamstring is still a little sore. I’m taking a few extra days off in order to avoid injury. I’m really itchin’ to go for a run (I’m addicted), but I’ll be a good girl and rest.
What’s next? I’ve signed up for the Disneyland ½ Marathon on Labor Day and the Las Vegas full Marathon on December 2, 2007!! I also signed up for the local Road Runner’s Marathon training program which starts June 2. I will train with a group that will also be running the Vegas Marathon 2007. They run together every Sunday morning with coaches, and hold training seminars. I’ve caught the marathon fever!! It’s a great habit, and it sure beats smoking!
In the meantime, I have chosen a 10K to start training for next week. The race is on May 26th. The schedule for the 10K training includes less mileage than the marathon training, but it’s enough to keep my fitness level up while still recovering from the last race. The marathon training starts a week later.
I’ve also been super busy with school. My Biology class is challenging, but I’m getting an A so far. I’m also taking an English Class.
Talk to you soon!
Korie
