You train religiously and eat a balanced diet, but nothing confirms your running progress better than a race. And on Sunday the Walt Stack 10k only boosted my confidence that I'm treating my body well and, most importantly, can tackle the half marathon.
I have the pre-race day traditions down to a science, and spent most of Saturday hydrating and alternately peeing. And as usual, I was nervous Sunday morning. The same old questions - why I was I paying money to get up early on the WEEKEND, why was I running fast FOR FUN, why can't I just take up yoga instead? But the moment I arrive at the starting line, my nervous energy transforms into excitement.
Less than 200 runners braved the summer cold and fog (only in San Francisco). The gun or megaphone - something went off - and we were running along Crissy Field, probably the most scenic spot in the city. The Bay is on your right, you pass Alcatraz and look beyond to the epic Golden Gate Bridge and rolling green hills. We ran along the beach to Fort Point, which is at the foot of the bridge, tapped the wall and turned around. I lost my running partner and good friend Tom for most of the first half, but as we looped back, he gained on me and admitted he wasn't feeling confident. I told him to keep his chin up, accept the running and enjoy the gorgeous view.
I was disappointed when I saw the clock upon starting the second half, which was already at 29 minutes. I knew the last loop had some serious hills and had to push it if I was going to meet my goal of 60:00. I pumped up my game, telling myself I was essentially running a 5k, and lost Tom again, when he had to stop and walk. I should point out that Tom wins EVERY race we run together. The second loop was less picturesque, running past the Marina boats, and through Aquatic Park - the last 1.5 miles starting on a very "fuck you" hill (named so because that's the only mantra that gets you through the uphill battle).
As I approached the finish line, Weezer's "The Good Life" popped onto my Nano. And I don't want to be an old man anymore/ It's been a year or two since I was out on the floor/ Shaking booty, makin sweet love all the night. I laughed out loud and gave one final push, having no idea of my pace, since I never once looked at my Nike+. I was shocked to cross the finish line and see 53:17 flash on the race clock. I knew right away I kicked ass.
So now I can check another running goal off my 2010 list - the 10k. All that's left is the half marathon in November. Sunday only made me more confident I can handle the 13 mile challenge.
Time: 53:17
Pace: 8:34
Goal: 60:00
Secret Goal: 56:00
Top Secret Goal: 54:00
Overall place: 72 out of 187
Female place: 9 out of 59
Half Marathon: November 7, 2010
