I run because:
I wanted a challenge. In September I committed to both a half and full marathon in 2024. I had settled into a satisfying personal and professional life and found myself only choosing to do the things I could do well or comfortably. I was craving the experience of learning how to do something new and the thrill of pushing myself out of my comfort zone. And so I started running and training for long distance races to redefine my limits.
Training has been exhausting, challenging and thrilling – taking the time to do something just for myself is addictive. Developing a routine and training schedule and sticking to it became a physical and mental commitment I entered with myself.
I am a person that wants to do something great immediately. With running, I had to accept that I was not going to be elite in days, months or even ever. I had to force myself to slow down and celebrate small milestones.
Surpassing the goal I had for myself for my first 13.1 race is an indescribable feeling of achievement. The appreciation and gratitude I have for my body is even more so. I used to hate this body. I used to criticize and starve it. With each run, I have gained so much love and respect for the body that carries me forward each day.
With running, the only thing I have to beat is my own limitation for myself. It’s about breaking my personal boundaries, setting new goals and celebrating my inner and outer strength.
Big Sur International Marathon 🏆
An unforgettable first marathon
Big Sur International Marathon 🏆
Yesterday I accomplished something I had never imagined would be part of my life story. It’s hard to put into perspective that limitations are simply illusions until you run and … MORE
Yesterday I accomplished something I had never imagined would be part of my life story. It’s hard to put into perspective that limitations are simply illusions until you run and finish your first marathon. I am not the same person as I was 26.2 miles ago. It feels absolutely incredible.
For almost the entire duration of the race I had a huge, silly smile on my face. Even when my back and quads started to yell at me to stop around the 22 mile mark. Running along the sweeping views of the Big Sur coastline, hearing the cheers of the volunteers at every aid station, taking everything in stride along with the other runners behind, in front and beside you. It’s an almost indescribable feeling of determination, elation and strength.
I am so in awe of the Big Sur Marathon Foundation for putting on such a memorable race despite the major closure of highway 1 last month which modified the course to an out and back. If you ever have the chance to run any distance of this race, do it. You won’t be disappointed. Every mile had its challenges and points of sheer joy. What struck me was the quiet. Unlike other races there aren’t any spectators until the very end. The isolation puts all your goals into greater focus. To just keep going.
From the moment I started my training I have experienced nothing but positivity from the running community. From strangers who just want to see you succeed to family and friends who think you are 100% crazy but give you every ounce of encouragement and love they have. There was nothing like seeing (and hearing) my husband and parents screaming for me AND beating the goal time I had for myself. I’m still taking it all in.
Before the marathon started I chatted with some other runners while we stretched and waited in the dark. Some were running their 3rd, 6th, 8th or 11th marathons. Maybe that will be me someday.
For now, me and all my blisters are savoring everything this experience has given me. A sense of purpose, infinite resolve and a fierce awareness of all the things I have yet to accomplish. Sore legs are a small price to pay.