One of my half-marathon medals.
On Halloween 2010, I ran the Marine Corps Marathon. I raised $13,000 for cancer research, cramped and then came home to find that my dog had died. Some other things happened and my family’s life changed. I haven’t run another marathon since.
Today I signed up for the Mississippi Blues Marathon. I always have thought I had another marathon in me but didn’t think it would be the Blues. I’ve run the half three times (and loved it) but knew the whole would be a huge challenge. The course is hillier than you think.
So why did I plunk down the cash and commit to the training? I need a BIG challenge. And running 26.2 miles on Jackson’s potholed hilly roads is just the challenge I’m looking for. It’s a great race and the organizers do a great job with it. It’s not ranked one of the top races in America for nothing.Plus, it’s my hometown race — I want to support it.
So the training begins. I will continue with my Paul Lacoste training. But will also up my running mileage. (prepare for more tree pictures). Right now I weight 217 lbs. I will need to run this race at no more than 190 lbs. So it is time to radically change my diet and lose some pounds. Sorry Taco Bell — No mas. Candy, you are no longer dandy. And sugar — I’m no longer sweet on you.
Tonight I had a salad. Tomorrow morning, I will run. I will repeat that frequently. Training for something as tough as a marathon requires quite a bit of personal discipline. That’s what I need right now.
But I know I will succeed for one reason and one reason only: I have amazing friends who will be running with me. So It’s time to get moving.
The Clydesdale is back.
You KNOW you can do it.
Good Luck, Hoss!