I was nearly 50 seconds slower this year than last. Last year = 31:40. This year = 32:24
I can think of @ least 10 things that I would have done differently to be better prepared for this run:

  • not had that beer with dinner last night
  • tried to get to sleep before 11pm
  • run 4 instead of almost 8 miles yesterday
  • laid out all my stuff for this morning last night
  • dried off @ least one pair of sneakers yesterday
  • stretched
  • gone on a warmup run
  • drank more water yesterday
  • had more carbs yesterday
  • spent some time relaxing this morning – practicing my breathing and thinking good thoughts

Instead, I found myself sprinting to the starting line @ 7:58 – 2 minutes before the gun went off. I was mentally unprepared. My legs were tight.   My stomach was queasy and I was doubting how well I could do.

Then again – there were some positives this morning

  • My miles were consisent. Last year my first mile was ~6:40 and I physically struggled the rest of the way. This time, I was smooth from start to finish
  • I had a chance to volunteer. I would love to volunteer @ a race again. I met so many nice people.  Then again, volunteering was also the reason the I was sprinting for the starting line w/ my sneakers in my hand.
  • I finished strong.  I ran by people on the last hill.

The next race that I could enter is a 10K in Hyannis.  I might run it, but I also might see if I could volunteer for it.  We’ll see – I have a couple weeks to decide.