September 11, 2004
A Perfect Race and Massage
Today was my first real race after combatting hip injuries and taking most of the summer off from running. It was a women's trail half marathon at Fountainhead Park. I couldn't have asked for a more pressure-free race and perfect weather. By arriving early, I beat the bathroom line and had time to stretch well and even get out some tightness in my piriformis with my trusty foam roller. Then, I wandered the parking lot to try to find my friend J who also was running the race. We made it to the start line together, but I knew she was going to be way ahead of me.
The course was comprised of two out and back portions, with the first part being hillier and rooty and the second part being longer. It reminded me a lot of the 6-mile endurance course we had to run at Quantico, except the latter had climbing and crawling obstacles and with a 30 lb pack, rifle, helmet, Camelbak, two full canteens, camoflauge uniform and Gortex boots (more support for my weak ankles). Anyhow, I got a strong start and was excited to be running again. I enjoyed being in nature, and the cheerleaders sprinkled throughout the course were a huge morale booster. I didn't spend much time at the aid stations since I carried my Camelbak and a Vanilla Bean Gu, though the Conquest beverage I sampled was quite tasty. Since I was a bit worried about ending up in crutches just in time for my wedding next week, I was sure to take the downhills and rooty areas conservatively.
During the race, I chatted with a few nice women who train with other DC area groups. They kept me motivated and on decent pace during the middle miles and passed with about 30 minutes to go. Since I started training regularly a few weeks ago, my longest run was 10 miles, so I expected to bonk. Although my cardio was spent and the hotspots on the bottoms of my feet were painful and bloody (note to self: trim those toe nails!), my legs felt strong. My goal was to finish in the 2:10 - 2:20 range, and I did it in 2:21. Yay! I was ecstatic and relieved to be finished. After the race, the organizers had fabulous treats like watermelon, cake, and a chocolate fondue fountain with fruit, along with the usual post-race fare. I definitely plan on doing this race again next year.
I didn't stick around for awards because I had to rush off for my post-race/pre-wedding massage at 1:30. It was very relaxing and helped easy tension and stiffness in my back and lower legs. Hopefully my legs won't be that sore tomorrow.
Posted by Leilani at September 11, 2004 10:31 PM
Comments
Hi Lei! I am proud of you for doing so great in the race! I wish I could have been there with you. I can't wait until I can even do 10 miles without pain. Anyway, hope you're not sore tomorrow and talk to you soon!
Posted by: becky at September 12, 2004 12:35 AM
Thanks Becky! I wish you were there too. Recovery is never fast enough, but I'm proud of you for hanging in there. How's the chiro?
Posted by: Leilani at September 12, 2004 10:48 PM