Officially Signed up for My Second Half

The deadline to register before the price increase for the Soldiers Half Marathon was getting close so I pulled the trigger today.  My much faster friend Kelli recommended this half when I told her I was looking to do another half in the Fall.  There is a half in October very close to home and where we often run, but everyone said it is so boring.  Kelli said the Soldiers Half has a great course and bands playing plus you get to run along the Chattahoochee River and the River Walk in Columbus.

The proceeds go to help families of soldiers who have been lost.  So it is good cause.  I lost the battle to convince hubby to run a half with me (for now).  He is really stubborn!  He is also very supportive and will be coming to Columbus for the weekend so we can have some couple time and he can support me at the race.  I definitely feel less anxiety knowing I have done a half and I probably won't die during the run.  Of course as my Mom would say, "never underestimate the potential of being hit by a bus."  What can I tell you I come form a long line of optimists.

Though my long runs have been in 6-8 mile range lately they have been consistent.  I did not want to lose the endurance I have worked to achieve.  I definitely feel my weekly mileage stays around what I need to be half marathon ready.  I will kick it up a little as the race gets closer, but I don't like to go crazy with 40 or 50 mile weeks.  For me that is just too much.  Not for everyone, but I know myself.  I struggle with balance and I need to keep it in the middle of the road or I end up in a ditch!

I do have a goal for this race, not a goal like the whole trip and race will be a waste if I fail to get it, but a goal.  I would like to finish just under 2 hours.  I think I can if I happen to have a good race day that day.  In my first half it was a very hilly course, coldest day of the year, and my first half marathon and I finished in 2:04.  I think on a flat course with what should be better weather I can shave of 5 minutes.  We shall see.

Also another first for me, this race will be out of town.  Not far out of town, but I won't be in my own bed with my natural peanut butter and toast.  Also the weather will be questionable so I will bring options.  I have been breaking in my Merrell Bare Access on long runs and they feel good.  They may be half marathon shoe for this race.  I am looking forward to it.  Whether I achieve my goal or not I am sure I will be a stronger runner when I am done!