Claytonopolis: The Half

Saturday, March 25, 2017

The Half

Well, folks. I ran a half-marathon today. 10 years ago I recall running a 5 K and I came home destroyed. My muscles were so sore, I had to ice them. I have come such a long way. Today I came home and was tired. But I took a bath, had a good meal and took a little rest. Then I was fine again; cleaned the garage, visited with neighbors, tidied and vacuumed the house before bed. Wow. I feel really good about my current physical fitness.

I did well--as well as I expected I would do. My husband could not believe I finished in precisely the time I expected. The hills were much harder than I expected, but I hung in there. This is where my husband thought I would crash and burn.

At 12.75 miles I just about lost all stamina. I started to feel like all the stores were depleted and everything ached. Then I mustered enough strength to jog to the finish. Part of this may have had to do with poor hydration. I really hated picking up water because drinking it messed up the rhythm of my breathing.

When I finished I felt a little emotional, because I needed some nourishment. But my stomach was in too much of a knot to eat. I drank a sport drink and felt better.

I don't have plans to run further distances. I feel running is really hard on the joints and I figure my joints and I have a lot of years left together. I want them in good condition. I do appreciate running, though.

My neighbor on the other hand, is a top athlete. She finish fourth out of everyone (1200+ runners). I think she was number one female. However, she was pretty disappointed. She's injured and felt she could do better. I'm sorry she could not take full pleasure in her victory. I understand that. She knew she could do better. But on the other hand, wow, take some pleasure in the fact that on a bad day, "you're still a winner." She's so fast. I'm in awe.

I was able to enjoy my new running pants from Lorna Jane this race. It was cool this morning and these were perfect. They also compressed a little so they were great support. I also did not suffer chafing (except for my arm, where my phone armband rubbed).

I always wear one of my Adam Towler race shirts to the race and I started wearing my pineapple bandanna in honor of my brother. This also makes me feel a little emotional at the end of a race. Another thing about running is that since it can bring physical pain, I try to channel this into penance, say my prayers and give it to the glory of God.