I signed up for the Toronto Women's 8K mostly because I couldn't resist the urge to finish the whole 2016 series! I chose the 8K distance simply because I'd only ever raced the distance once before, in 2013. Given that it was less than a week after my half marathon, I didn't really expect much. I'd spent most of the week recovering from knee pain and the last of a cold. When I'd run this race the first time, it was an incredibly stormy day with rain, freezing temperatures and wind gusts. When I looked at the forecast for race day this time, it looked like it would be a repeat, just without the wind. It was what it was. I picked up my race kit the day before, and met friends for a very non-traditional glass of wine and appetizers. This is what started the ball rolling for the 'change everything up' race. I joked with Melly and Lisa about all the things I could change for this race my previous...to take the opportunity to throw all those little traditions and 'should do's' out the window and see what happens. |
I also had the most amazing cheer section ever! Melly, Lisa and Leanne gave up their Saturday morning opportunity to sleep in and instead trekked across the city to come freeze their bottoms off and cheer for me. You girls are awesome!
Michelle was racing as well, but the 5K. We warmed up together for a bit before I headed back to get into the corral. I had the chance for one last hug from the girls and I was off. I had actually hoped going into this race that I could get a PB given my previous 8K had been my second race ever, but with all of the circumstances of the past week, I wasn't sure. The speed came fairly easily. I guess that's what happens when you don't let your legs run for a week! An earphone mishap had me trying to readjust things on the go and at 1K pulling over to the side for a moment to angrily shove my earphones into my flipbelt. So much for the distraction and motivation of music! I was going to have to listen to the complaints of my brain and legs for the rest of this race. |
I started my racing season with a PB in the 5K distance, had an amazing 1 mile experience and finished out the season with another PB! It was a good day, and another great learning experience. There were things that I did well, and other things that I could have done even better. Today, and in the season. I'm excited to put what I have learned into my training for 2017! |