Drink about a gallon of water, and be really cranky. Then, get an incredible high from the realization that I don't have to keep running anymore. Then, get cranky again.
Who do you wish to thank?
My boyfriend Chuck, who talked me into this hairbrained scheme back in July, and who pushed me to keep running week after week after week. My flatmate Thiena, who ran with me the whole way through. Finally, I'd like to thank Hal Higdon, who provided me with the training schedule that I followed somewhat consistently, though there was maybe a week or two in September when I decided to rebel against the schedule and be a spectacular couch potato. The price of this rebellion was that I couldn't feel my legs after the half marathon. Had I followed Hal's schedule all the way through, I'm certain I would've been doing cartwheels at the finish line.
What was your finish time?
2:54:15. This was a wonderful surprise, considering I'd spent the last 3 months worrying that I wouldn't make it under the 4 hour race cap.
Would you recommend a half marathon to people who share your distaste for physical exertion?
Yes, I would highly recommend it. It is an achievable goal that provides a ton of benefits, such as increased fitness and bragging rights. I certainly intend to reference the fact that I ran a half marathon in every conversation I have this week. "You gave an excellent presentation today. It reminds me of that time I ran a half marathon in 2:54:15."
What was the most important thing that you learned from this experience?
- Reading Runner's World does not make you a runner
- Buying a lot of expensive running gear at the Sports Basement does not make you a runner
- Running, in conjunction with reading Runner's World and buying a lot of expensive gear at the Sports Basement, makes you a runner who possesses a great deal of trivial running knowledge and looks very athletic also.
What was the best tip you got from other runners?
Applying vaseline to areas of my foot where I normally get blisters after long runs. I did this on half marathon day and got no blisters!
Are you going to continue running? Will you aim for a marathon next?
I will certainly continue running once my body has forgotten that running once made my calves feel like they were trying to separate from the rest of my body. I would like to do a marathon one day. I'm sure Hal Higdon will show me the way.
