Yesterday I ran the Dallas White Rock Half Marathon. This is the biggest race I’ve ever been in - something around 17,000 people ran either the half, the marathon, or the marathon relay. The course for this race was easier than the DRC Half that I did last month. Fewer hills and they were spread farther apart as well. Plus the last 3 miles were a gradual downhill on the Katy Trail, which was really nice considering the last 3 miles can be the toughest.
I had a better plan for this race. It involved sticking with my pace leader. I have a tendancy to get too excited and take off too fast, then burn out and be in pain for the last 6 miles or so. But I was determined to have a good finish time this race, and my goal was a 2:30 finish. So I stuck with my pace leaders, who were amazing. They continually encouraged us and got the crowds to cheer for us as we ran by. We also spent some time playing the alphabet game and telling jokes and stories - anything to keep you from realizing how many miles were left. :-) Just past mile 11 I was feeling really good, and made the decision to go ahead of the pace team and finish those last couple of miles strong - I wanted to guarantee that 2:30 finish. Well, in my opinion, I crushed my goal! Offical time of 2:27:41! My last two splits were under the 11 min/mile pace and I felt so strong and pushed that last 200 yards or so. It was great!!! YIPPEEE FOR ME!!!!!
Sorry, I’m just so happy that I was able to complete this goal. I’m so stinking proud of myself and I’m sharing it on my blog so that I will stop talking about it and boring all of my family and friends. 
*Adapted from the Best Week Ever TV show on VH1.
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15 December 2008 | 