Monday, October 11, 2010

19.1 miles ...

19.1 miles is how far I have run since Friday. 19.1 miles that were not mine. 19.1 miles where I was not concerned about my time, but rather that my running partner was getting all that they could out of the run.

On Friday, I was joined by my partner-in-crime, Dizzle. We ran one mile together. One mile without anyone else tagging along (and slowing us down). I let Dizzle set the pace and she whined about it the ENTIRE time. From the first few steps in, she complained that she had to pee. That she couldn't hold it for one second more. But she did. And the two of us finished that mile in 12:24. 1:18 faster than she had ever covered the distance before.

On Saturday, J and I headed out for the last long run of my training cycle - 12 miles. His parents watched the girls and we got some much deserved alone time. I picked the route and he picked the pace. At mile 11, his hip hurt too much to run. So, we walked. I told him to be proactive in treating it and to think about his form when he runs. At mile 11.4, we started running again. J thought about his form. And for the first time ever, he pulled away from me. His stride was just too long to keep up with. And as we finished, he was running an 8:18 with me two steps behind. Apparently, J has been hiding some serious speed in his legs. That half marathon PR at Richmond is so his.

Then on Sunday, G ran her second 20 miler of this training cycle. I had a few miles left for the week, so I joined her at mile 14.5. She had gone out too fast on a rather hilly route. Probably more mentally tired than physically, I got to be her cheerleader for the last six miles. When she wanted to stop, I told her she couldn't - she needed to drive me back to my car. When she started to beat herself up, I told her she was wrong and tried to crack a joke. I was there for her, like she has been there for me.

This weekend I ran to support others. Next weekend, I run for me. Five days and nine miles is all that stands between me and the start line ...

19 comments:

salomon shoes said...

Love this line fro yours; This weekend I ran to support others. Next weekend, I run for me. Five days and nine miles is all that stands between me and the start line ...

Katye said...

so freaking excited for you!

Silly Girl Running said...

You are so going to PR and run a sub-4 next Sunday! :)

Shellyrm ~ just a country runner said...

It is so nice to take your mind off yourself and focus on others. It really helps keep the crazies away to when approaching that start line.
You are going to do great!!

dawn @ running the dawn said...

you will run for yourself and you will carry all those people who love you along in every step. they will inspire you to greatness, and comfort you when it hurts, and praise you when you cross the line victorious. so excited for you!

Laurie said...

Great post. Sounds like some great runs. You will be so awesome next weekend!

Runners Fuel said...

Such a good person to do this for others.

Megan said...

You're terrific! I wish I someone like you around to keep me motivated when I don't want to go anymore.

Nicole said...

Crazy to think that the past 15 (or so) weeks have come down to 9 miles. You have such a great attitude and are so confident. You surely have put the miles in! Can't wait to hear about your marathon PR!

Mel -Tall Mom on the Run said...

Running FOr and with others is the best. Oh I am super excited to track you.. Your legs are strong and you CAN do it..

Meredith said...

Why tears just came to my eyes, I'm not sure! Emotional still from spectating Portland yesterday! And, seriously, friends are such a treasure!

Sounds like an awesome weekend and I cannot wait to hear how next weekend goes!

Julie D. said...

Now that is the way to do a taper!!! love it. Tonia, you totally have this marathon inside and out. Have I missed your goal time for it? You are going to rock it!!

track coach and adorable wife said...

It's awesome that you could be there for people this weekend, and yea I'm pretty sure Dizzle is already faster than me!

Katie A. said...

That was probably the best thing you could do for yourself this weekend! It will send you into the week and race refreshed! So excited for you!

ajh said...

It is almost your time! Have a great week of anticipation!

Marlene said...

It's almost your turn!!! Awesoe that you got to share some miles this weekend with your training partner, hubby and the newest superstart in the family!

Nike Athena said...

3 days until your marathon PR! You're going to rock it - have fun!

Unknown said...

Best of luck on the 16th! You'll do awesome!!!

abbi said...

Good luck this weekend!!