Date: October 14, 2024
How It Started:
Last year, I ran the NYC Marathon with friends, sparking my goal to tackle all the World Marathon Majors. I was thrilled to get into the Chicago Marathon and began my training over the summer.
The Training:
I’ll be honest—while I completed all major workouts and stayed consistent, my focus and intensity wavered. The summer brought personal challenges, work stress (thanks to a mid-year promotion!), and lots of travel. Still, I’m proud I stuck with my training, even running super early before work meetings or on hotel treadmills.
The Pre-Race:
I booked a hotel near the start/finish and was excited to find my Zwift Racing buddy Janette Rodewald just a block away! We met up and walked to the starting corrals together.
Once there, chatting with fellow runners helped ease my pre-race nerves.
The Race:
As always, I had three time goals: first, a finish between 3:45 and 3:50; second, under 3:55; and lastly, under 4 hours. I knew I could do it, but I also felt the effects of my training inconsistency. I focused on heart rate rather than pace.
I started conservatively in the first 10K, keeping my HR just below threshold. Once I felt good, I pushed to threshold HR. By 30K, my HR was elevated, and I realized it was too soon to push hard. I eased my pace until the last 5K, then kicked it up to finish strong.
The Result:
I finished just under 3:55! Not my first goal but still a PR!
The Post-Race:
This is the best I’ve felt post-marathon. I’m sore, but not wrecked. I wondered if I should have pushed harder, but I’m trying to be kinder to myself and savor this feeling.
What’s Next?
I hope to get into Berlin-fingers crossed! I at least have a couple of gravel races lined up to keep me motivated for my next endurance adventure!
