There is something about running that keeps calling me back. It is one of those recurring hobbies throughout my life (thus far), and so I figure I better pay attention to it. I’m not sure if it’s the fitness, or the social aspect, or just the simple pleasure of being outside. Probably a combination of all three. Check out my Strava for my training and also some sweet running pictures or request access to my Substack to see my (very infrequent and belated) race reports, along with some running statistics posts and general thoughts on life.
Well racing every month last year definitely took its toll on me. I was on pace to run a 2:37 at CIM until my right hip started giving out around mile 21. I slowed down and finished the race, but did manage to injure myself pretty good in the process. I spent six weeks puttering around trying to fix it myself before starting PT. That has helped a lot, and I’m optimistic about being able to put down a respectable time at Boston in a month and a half (definitely not a PR though). Who knows, it might even be the ideal first Boston experience since I won’t be super stressed about running well. My sights are set on my summer races though. I am signed up for the Beaverhead 100k in July. A very high-elevation race along the Continental divide trail. And then in a huge surprise I got drawn in the Wasatch 100 lottery. So I have a 100-mile race on the calendar in September. I’m terrified. Lots of uphill treadmill and stair stepper so far, and even more on the horizon. This time of injury has been a nice reflection period. It’s also been fun to realize that I truly do enjoy running. As I’ve been able to get back out there, it is a joyful experience.
I am about a month away from my big build for CIM in December of 2024. As you can see by the list below, I’ve done a lot of racing this year since one of my 2024 goals was to run a race every month. While I still have races in September, October, and November, I’m looking forward to a big preparation and effort for CIM. An additional goal I have for 2024 is to run 2,500 miles. I will get close, it just depend on how hard I want to push myself after CIM. My third running goal for the year was to run a 2:30 marathon. That won’t happen based on where I’m at, but I will shoot for 2:40. Looking forward, I plan to do a 100k next summer that lets me put my name in the 2026 Western States lottery. Going to start that process because I’d love to do it eventually. And as always, my dream is to do a giant road trip to all the national parks and run a marathon in each one. Maybe some day.