So. As you all know, I ran in my first road race this weekend (I survived-barely), the Paddy’s five miler…here is my assessment of the whole racing competition situation…
Pro: The race (like most races) was in the morning. Which means you get it out of the way and you don’t have to spend the whole day dreading it. Also, if you’re a normally adjusted human being, you have the rest of your day to be productive and do stuff. Or, if you’re me, you can take a four hour nap immediately after.
Con: The race was in the morning. The one thing I dislike more than running, is mornings.
I look happy to be awake and running, but trust me, pictures can be deceiving…
Pro: You pay to run, and all of the proceeds go to a charitable organization, New Heights. New Heights is a program for for kids in Portsmouth, so its good to do good things. Go charity!
Con: You pay to run. I had to pay money to do something I don’t like. Which seems odd to me…
Pro: You get a really cool tracker anklet that tracks how far/fast you run and makes you feel like a convict/con-man/Lindsay Lohan
Con: You get a really cool tracker anklet that tracks how far/fast you run…like I really wanted to know how slowly I was running?
Tracking anklet…Neil Caffrey style
Pro: You’re running with other people, and there is a definite excitement and energy in the air that gets your blood pumping and adrenaline flowing. Added bonus: if you race in a St. Patrick’s day race people tend to dress up at Leprechauns.
Con: You’re running with people. There’s a reason why I train alone, I don’t like people to watch me suffer/struggle/sweat. Lucky me, I got to do all three in front of 1,160 other racers. And their families.
I made the mistake of starting the race at the front with the people who actually like to run…
Pro: They announce your name/bib number/hometown as you cross the finish line, and it kind of makes you feel like a superstar.
Con: They announce your name/bib number/hometown as you cross the finish line, causing the people who finished the race 30 minutes ago to be amazed that there are actually still people “running”.
Pro: I love to compete, and I definitely miss the competition that comes with playing sports. So it felt pretty good to get back in the competitive spirit.
Con: I love to compete, and I hate to lose. I loathe to lose. I don’t like when the volleyball team I co-coach loses, I don’t like when the volleyball team I play on loses, I don’t like losing my car keys, I don’t like losing card games, and I don’t like feeling like I’m slowly losing my mind sometimes. I don’t like losing. So even though I wasn’t expecting to be a running superstar on my first race, it still stung a bit as all the daddy’s pushing toddlers in strollers passed me. Woof.
Pro: At the end of this particular race, you get a beer!
Con: There’s really no downside to getting a free beer as a reward for suffering through 5 miles.
I was hoping for a Bud Light…but I’m not one to complain about free beer
Conclusion: What have I learned from this race running experience? I don’t hate running races (which going into it I thought was a definite possibility). All of the pros/cons seem to even each other out, so really, running in a race, isn’t any worse than running solo. So, I don’t hate running races, I just hate running. Ya. That hasn’t changed. Running with 1,000 people, running by myself, doesn’t really make a difference. Running is running and its a miserable experience. The first thing I said to my dad at the finish line…”I should have put ‘run 5 miles on my list’ instead of a half marathon…”. Ya. I’m really regretting this whole half marathon situation. Running 5 miles this weekend was a misery. And that’s not even half of a half marathon. I was hoping that this St. Paddy’s day race would ease my fears about running my half marathon…but now…I’m officially dreading it.
I look very happy and generally well put together for having just run 5 miles, but again, pictures are deceiving…
Thanks for reading! xo Whitney
25x25 
Love Beer! I Can run for it
Its one of the few things that will get me running!
So proud of you! I ran 5ks growing up, and occasionally still do on special occasions! I always looked forward to tge food at the end, so many bagels! Great job, Whit!
Thanks lady friend! Noo idea how I’m going to do 13.1! Woof
whatever beer it was that they gave you, it had to be way better than bud light – just based on the color.
It was Killian’s Irish Red…quite delicious but a little heavy after a five mile run! THanks for reading!
yup. that’s heavy. where was the race? city? state?
Super heavy..my dad generously offered to help me out and drink some of it…what a great guy! hahaha…the race was run on the Pease Tradeport in NH.
congrats on the performance. there was a race in philly this past weekend, so with the beer and st. pat’s thing, i thought it might have been the same one, which is close to me.
Nope, good ol’ New England! Thankfully it was unseasonably warm so I didn’t die of hypothermia. 🙂
OK, I’m going to have to dig through your blog to get to the bottom of this…
If you hate to run, then why exactly do you run?
😉
I can imagine this was quite an accomplishment, though — congrats!
I know…it makes no sense what so ever! I put “run a half marathon” on my to-do list before I turn 25…..still not sure what I was thinking! Thanks for reading!
Well, you’re certainly brave. Silly perhaps, but TOTALLY brave!
Congrats again — I’m impressed…
Ya…I must have been feeling very motivated/slightly delusional the day I made the list 🙂
I don’t think I could do it. Like you, I hate to run–really, really hate it. But, then, I like mornings, so that might help. Also, like you, I would collapse and nap for hours afterwards–that is, assuming I survived.
Great post.
Kathy
Thanks Kathy! Ya, it was double tough for me…running in the morning! woof! Napping after the run was the worst possible decision I could have made..I could actually feel my muscles tightening up but I didn’t care I was sooooo tired. Thanks for reading!
Glad you found all the pros in the experience. My sister was there running it too and she loved it. Congrats on Running 5 miles. Tough work!!
Small world! I was amazed that there were so many people running in it….it was very tough work, I’m sure your sister enjoyed it much more than I did! Thanks for reading!
Good luck with your running career! As a very experienced race runner I laughed right along. Great Stuff!
Hahaha thanks! I’m quite sure its not going to become a career…more like a brief love/hate affair. Thanks for reading!
You’ll do just fine! I’m going to run the whole way behind you shouting “GO! GO! GO!”
…Wait, that means I have to run it too…uhh nevermind
How about you rent a moped for the day and drive behind me yelling “GO! GO! GO”…that way when I collapse and die halfway through you can bring my body back to my mother!
Deal! I know LuLu wants you back alive, but only if I can buy one of those megaphones that way everyone can hear me. I know how much you love attention when you run!
Hah. Fine, but if you get a megaphone you have to wear a ridiculous pink velour track sue ala Sue Slyvester
HAHAHA done! But we stop at the haircut.
You’ve got yourself a deal!
The best thing about running is when you are finished. 🙂 good luck on the training for the 1/2, you can do it……and juat think how thrilled you’ll be when you finish 13.1!!!
Its like you took the words right out of my mouth! I LOVE when I finish a run! If I survive it I’m sure I’ll be thrilled to finish the half! Thanks for the support!
Its like you took the words right out of my mouth! I LOVE when I finish a run! If I survive it I’m sure I’ll be thrilled to finish the half! Thanks for the support!
I am in a running group with a bunch of moms and we constantly say we hate running. I don’t really like it, but I do like what it does for me in mind, health, and spirit. I have run 2 half-marathons, and it is all hard. 1 mile, 5 miles, half-marathon. All pretty much the same. But, you will never regret that you did it! Good Luck.
That’s what I’m hoping! I’ve been told that there is an amazing sense of accomplishment after finishing a big race..I just felt dead after the 5 miler, so hopefully the half marathon will go better! Thanks for your support!
Great post, I like the bit about crossing the finish line. I’m attempting the Berlin marathon this September going from a none runner- to superstar (here’s hoping) If I make it across the finish line alive I’ll be smiling. Keep up the great work. Love.
Yikes- a marathon! You’re braver than I am! Good luck and thanks for your support!
Loved your pro and con list and agree about the beer at the end.
Congrats on being Freshly Pressed! That is a huge PRO!
Thanks! You should see the huge smile on my face right now! I called my mom to tell her about it (she had NO idea what I was talking about)-does that make me a huge dork or what? Shout out to Carley from Findingravity.com for letting me know I was chosen!
It is hard to explain to friends and family. Just say that you won one of the biggest blogging awards out there in the blogosphere!
I think that is an EXCELLENT way of phrasing it!
I was stoked! I had JUST read it and I went to log into word press and I saw your picture! I was like WAIIIIT A MINUTE! CONGRATS again, I’m sure your email is now full from notifications.
Hahaha thanks, its been ever so slightly overwhelming #bloggerproblems
Good for you! I’m running/walking (mostly walking, I won’t try to kid myself) my first 5k this weekend, and I really like your list of pros/cons! However, there is no free beer at the end of this one, but my mom agreed to treat me to McDonalds afterwards. 🙂
http://www.dameswhodish.wordpress.com
Good luck! That’s really funny because I treated myself to fries from McDonald’s the night before my race…I figured I had already earned it hahaha. There’s no shame in walking, I absolutely did some walking during my race! Although the HARDEST part is starting to run again after you’ve taken a break to walk…ugh, its the worst! Have fun!
Haha !! The free beer 😀 What else do you need? 😛 Gr8 post !! Cheers
Please check out my latest post – http://raajtram.com/2012/03/12/my-dad-says/
And even my new PhotoBlog – http://raajclicks.wordpress.com/2012/02/29/oh-i-love-my-laptop/
Thanks for reading! I can’t wait to check your stuff out!
Pro: You were Freshly Pressed and a bazillion new people will read your blog.
Con: You were Freshly Pressed and a Bazillion new people will email you and become your new best blog friends. They all will ask you how you got your post Freshly Pressed.
Congrats on your race.
Mr. Bricks
PS How did you get your blog Freshly Pressed?
HAHAHA..I just died laughing…the excitement hasn’t worn off about being chosen as Freshly Pressed..but we’ll see! Thanks for reading..and being my new best blog friend?
A big well done! Your pros and cons were so true haha, but keep it up and I hope to hear about more mini-marathons! It has inspired me to get my running shoes out the closet…
Wow! Glad to hear that my extreme hatred of running has inspired someone to go out and hit the pavement! Enjoy it 🙂
While you’re running it, a half really doesn’t seem much different than 5 miles. I know exactly what you’re talking about. I used to not like running. If you can just get into a groove, you should be fine. If you can hear your breathing after the first 10 min, you’re going too fast for it to be comfortable. This is a great blog! I enjoyed reading it! Keep it up and keep putting one foot in front of the other!
I made the mistake of starting at the front of the race with all the pro runners, I tried my best to keep up with them for all of 100 yards before I realized I would die if I kept that pace up! Whoops! Thanks for the advice and the support!
Haha…I made that same mistake in my first 10k. I was supposed to be running 8:30 ish pace, but when they shouted out the first mile at “5:59!” I about lost my mind. Somehow I averaged out at what I wanted, but not without feeling destroyed.
It was fun running that fast with all the pros…for about 30 seconds haha 🙂
Haha. Yeah. That’s when you hope someone snaps your race picture.
P.S. The 3rd largest 10k in the US (the Bolder Boulder) is a great way to step up some mileage, enjoy beautiful Boulder, CO, hear live bands along the race, and to feel fast. There are people out there who hate running more than you do, and a lot of them register for this race. A lot of people do it for memorial day out of memory for soldiers, sailors, and airmen. It is May 30 this year, but it will be a great intermediate step for you. Fun blog!
That would be a lot of fu-and an excellent excuse to get out to Boulder!
It’s a blast. There are 50,000 people, and believe it or not, most are slower than you. The beer at the end is the best one ever, augmented by the military flyby and skydivers. I hope you get to make it out to that one at some point in your running career.
I think I’ll have to add it to my next bucket list!
Good call! I really like your blog idea. That’s so cool how it started and picked up steam. You’re a pretty good writer. I look forward to reading future posts.
Thank you so much! I look forward to writing them 🙂
congrats! your post definitely made me laugh – it was all spot on about how i felt after my half marathon… except you got beer, so a bonus for sure haha.
great work!
meg
Haha thanks! I have to make sure to rope someone into meeting me at the end of my half with a beer…and a stretcher!
I love this post!!
Thanks so much! And thanks for reading!!!
First of all, you forgot to count all the people still sleeping or those sitting on their couches – you beat all them too! Secondly, I am not a runner although I have done 2 full and tons of halves, I still hate it. But you may find that you like the 1/2 marathon more as sometimes what your body is doin the first 30+ min is the warm up. I never used to warm up as I didn’t see the need to run any farther than what I signed up for, but now I know that the mental argument I am having in my head beating myself up for signing up for another race is the warm up. Somewhere around mile 6 something clicks and it becomes fun (plus by then you are in the home stretch and just running home). If you are looking for a group to train with – despite what you said about training alone – Team in training is a great group to look into for 1/2 or full. I’ve done several events and the cause takes your mind of the running!
haha maybe that’s why I hated the 5 miler so much…its doesn’t start being fun until mile 6! Thanks for all the advice and support!
I’ll be checking back! It sounds ridiculous, but trust me truly somewhere between 6-8 is the magic number!
I’m going to hold you to that promise!
What a fun post, including the deceiving photos 🙂 congrats on being Freshly Pressed – MJ
Thanks so much! They really should show me collapsed on the ground sobbing hahaha
Nice content…
Thanks 🙂
grate post
Thanks so much!
Congrats on being Freshly Pressed! if i can offer you any advice it’s don’t think about it too much! I ran my first 1/2 marathon last spring and finished. The most I ever ran in my life prior to that was maybe 2.6 miles. I finished in 2 hours and 22 minutes. I am now part of the 13.1 club and you soon will be too! You can do it! Running is running but the accomplishment is worth it! Just wing it…I did! And hey, you ran more than I did pre-half anyway. You even got a beer afterwards!
I can’t wait to join the club…I’m going to get myself one of those 13.1 bumper stickers 🙂 Thanks for all the advice!
Reblogged this on South of the Fork and commented:
These seem like familiar sentiments.
I’m doing a 10k in Manchester purely because there is a large shower that you can run through, like a car wash for humans.
Like beer, this is reason enough.
Well done for getting across the line!
bahaha that sounds awesome! I’m thinking of jumping in the ocean after my half!
Love your post especially since I am so connected to your experience. I decided in January that I would join a group, Run for God, for novice runners to prepare for a 5K. I don’t think they’ll have free beer at the end of the race but hopefully there will something else that will be worth it. 🙂 I have never had a desire to run and being a teacher I thought I needed to do something I despised since I do have students that do not read (besides trying to get more fit both spiritually and physically). I needed to capture some of those feelings they have …doing something they don’t like to do. You had me smiling all the way through your post…My 5K is in May and I’m already dreading it. Not sure if I’ll make it through the training. My only solace is that I beginning this venture at a much older age…so I have an excuse.
That is such a great idea and way for you to connect with your students! You go girl! GOOD LUCK and thanks for reading!
Keep it up…it will grow on you. Every single time I run or race, there’s a point (or several) along the way that suck.
People keep saying that! Mile 1 was ok…. And I was really excited about mile 4!!!! Thanks for reading!
This made me laugh out loud!! Probably because I love to run! HAHA! Congrats on finishing though! And good luck with your journey to your Half Marathon Goal! I got addicted to it while training for my first half marathon! You might too!?? 😉
Goodness do I wish I was one of those people who just loved to run! I’m so jealous of them! People keep saying I’ll learn to love it…we’ll see! Thanks for reading!
Love this post! Congratulations!! I just finished my first half marathon last month. (Yup, 13.1 miles is crazy but not as crazy as a marathon. Or at least that’s what I tell myself.)
I DO NOT KNOW HOW PEOPLE RUN FULL MARATHONS! THey are 100% crazy…which only makes us 50% crazy? hah. Thanks for reading!
I really enjoyed your post. You are no doubt feeling a bit sore today, as well as tired but I hope that more than anything you feel proud of yourself. You should take some time to stop and celebrate your achievments before stressing about the next. 🙂 A half marathon is not easy but you need to focus on the journey. I get a real buzz when I run a distance. I view my running time as time for myself and yes I get stressed about races and when my training doesn’t go to plan but there is always a but (or excuse for why you didn’t go as far as you want or the time you wanted! Yesterday it was because I fell over right at the beginning – adding minutes onto my time obviously!) Running is so mental (in both the meanings). Keep going and one day I am sure you will do your half marathon. Good luck.
P.s. I may be able to help you with your knitting goal.
EXCELLENT! Question for you….what is a knitting project you would recommend for a beginner that IS NOT a scarf!? Thoughts?
Well….thinking about your running you could make a headband. Or howabout a cover for a phone, i-pod, lap top etc. These can all be knitted flat and then simply sewn up. If you choose wisely it can be a lot shorter than a scarf! It probably should be something you want to do.
Oh I LOVE the idea of aheadband! THANKS!
A sense of accomplishment and a free beer! I’d run it every morning if that were the case. Nice post.
I know! Although I think it would sort of defeat the whole purpose of running if I chugged a beer after each time! Thanks for reading!
Haha, I love this. I have only run in one race so far – a half marathon last fall. This year I’m doing at least a 5K, a 10K, and another half-marathon in Boston.
Pro: I’ve already been through and survived the worst of it. It sucked, but I survived. And I will survive again! And I’m hoping it’ll make these shorter races feel extra fast by comparison!
Con: I know just how much late summer half-marathon training is going to suck.
But, the good news is that it’s grueling, but it goes faster than you think! And then… it’s over. And then you get beer!
Well I guess it can’t be allllllllll bad if you’ve already run one and you’re doing another! I am very glad I don’t have to do my training in the summer though! Good luck and thanks for reading!
I started running when I was 25 and am now a seasoned marathoner of over 30 years with 21 marathons run and making it to the age-group podium at Boston. I really enjoyed the clever structure of your post, your sense of humour and your fresh take on the running experience. Keep at it! The health benefits quadruple when you get to be my age.
Good lord! You’re my hero! Im only 24 and I feel like I got hit by a bus yesterday! Hopefully it hurts less as you go on!
I liked your recap. You made me laugh.
thanks-I love to make people laugh! 🙂
Good job! You deserve a really long nap after that. Great post! 🙂
The nap was the best/worst idea ever! I was sooo tired, but I woke up and all my muscles were sooo tight from not moving for 4 hours
I have been so sore today! Thanks for reading!
Nice work! I only run if someone is chasing me with a weapon. 🙂
Hahah…I think I would be a much better runner if I had someone behind me doing that! 🙂 Thanks for reading!
Congratulations. I have done many races and still hate running. But I keep doing it and doing it. I also hate having people see me struggle and see me be slow. But I love doing the races. There is so much camaraderie.
I joke about having someone chase me with a knife, I just can’t seem to get a volunteer. If you find someone who’ll do that, would you share?
You scratch my back I’ll scratch yours? Ahaha maybe it could be a revolutionary new training method? Thanks for reading!
Well done. I’m training for a 13.1 next summer, and never having run a public road race before, this post was illuminating indeed. Good luck with your plans!
Thanks! And good luck with yours!
Congrats on your first 5 miler. I am sure it is slightly intimidating, but I find that reading about some of the amazing things that triathletes / ultra marathoners do is motivating to me to train better for Half Ironmans. One of the things I enjoy most about triathlons is the spirit that is at the end of the race. No matter how late you finish, if you finish, nobody judges you. The only person that can beat you is yourself and your goals.
That]s very true- I absolutely get in my own head and psych myself out! Thanks for reading!
Cool post – totally true that what I love about racing I also really hate about it! And good woman yourself for heading from the post-race beer… that’s exactly how we do it in Ireland 🙂
I bet it does-so it only seems fitting that it was a St. Patrick’s day race! Thanks for reading!
The only proper
excusereason for running is when it’s done away from something like a bear.Amen!
congrats on running in your first race!! and 5 miles too! every pro and con are right on my list too! one thing that keeps me running is knowing the fact that as long as i finish running without any stops to walk or anything and that my running is better than me just sitting then i’m already better than i was then when i started. and so are you!! =) good luck on your half-marathon! i’m rooting for you!!! =)
I kept thinking of all the junk food that I was going to treat myself to after the race-and my nap! Thanks for reading and rooting!
I found your blog through Fresh Pressed. I found this post to be entertaining, and I found myself nodding a few times as I remembered my 5Ks I’ve participated in, and a half marathon I’m planning in the future.
Thanks for stopping by-and good luck in your half!
Great post. I ran one 5 mile race on St. Patrick’s Day in St Louis about 7 years ago, and I totally identify with all of your pros and cons. I’ve set a goal for myself to run a 5K at the beginning of the summer.
Thanks so much for reading-and good luck in your race!
I just stumbled on your blog… I LOVE THIS POST. I was cracking up the whole time.
I’m glad you enjoyed your first race experience. I’ve learned that the running community is super supportive and for the most part not at all judge-mental
Thanks so much 🙂 I have found runners to be especially nice, which is very much appreciated! Thanks for reading!
Keep it up! It is a wonderful addiction. 😀
The running, or the beer after running? Kidding 🙂 thanks for reading!
So funny! I used to run. I thought I liked it but, mostly, it just felt like I was achieving something. I did do a half marathon and kept it up running for awhile after that. Now I dance, which I can’t not do-if I’m sick or can’t do it for some reason I am still reading about it. I hope you enjoy running (or something else) that much too!
maybe I’ll have to try dancing after I give up on this running thing…thanks for reading!
Thanks for sharing. This was a fun read and I couldn’t agree more. This is similar to what I am feeling before running my first race. Good for you and keep it up! The writing and the running.
THanks so much! And good luck with your running and writing toO!
There is NOTHING like the sport of distance running. As a veteran of 34 years, 80000+ miles, hundreds of races in hundreds of towns, 100 mile weeks..(only a dozen or so,but averaging 60 a week for most of those 34 years) I congratulate you on your first race….My advise to you now would be..
Really get into the sport. Read about it, read letsrun.com, flotrack.com..pay attention to NCAA cross country..The indoor NCAA’s and World indoors were this past weekend and they were great to read about….
Once you really get into our sport, you will enjoy it more..It is NOT just a bunch of weekend yuppies with their garmins doing it for charity and all that..
It is a wonderful sport, with an inspirational and wonderful history….
The only problem with our sport, is it is the only sport where a great majority who take part in it, don’t actually like it.
They glum onto it for social, charity or reasons that have nothing to do with the sport and they are missing the spirtit of what it is to be a runner.
My wifes illness got me back into running after serious injuries at the age of 52…I have run 3 races in the last 4 weeks, BUT man, it’s slow going…
Good luck to you…take pride in it..read about it, know the sport, know the history and you will enjoy it much, much more……
XC rules!
WOW-that is a lot of running-color me impressed! Thanks for reading!
The beer at the end is the best!
Best. Beer. Ever!
Keep up the fun attitude and you just might learn to love running…or, at least racing. And, if not, at least youve got some great blogging material ahead! 😉 congrats, MoSop
Thanks so much 🙂
Hey, Congrats! I just ran my first race too! Saturday I ran a half-marathon in Red Rock Canyon, just north of Las Vegas. I also wore Brooks shoes. It was one of the hardest things (physically) I’ve ever done. It was grueling and truly challenging. And it was worth it. I felt fantastic afterwards. I drank several beers immediately afterwards and then crashed for a couple of hours. And then I hit the Vegas strip and drank more.
WHOA-we’re like racing twins! I WISH mine had been in Vegas though!
This is funny! I have never thought of this! 🙂
Congrats on your first road race. More to come!
http://penarunzi.blogspot.com
Thanks so much-and thanks for reading!!
Very funny! Go you, running for charity is wonderful! I feel your pain! I hate running and I hate mornings… I will be doing RFL in my town and I have to get my run on… I just wish mine concluded with a free beer!
Everything is better with a free beer 🙂 Thanks for reading!
I’m getting myself into a somewhat similar situation and this made me laugh and feel a whole lot better about it so thanks!
Glad I could help! HAVE FUN (bahahaha)
wow Really The Posting is very nice………
🙂
Really very Nice Message…
Iam very much impressed…
THank you for your kind words.
Ha ha….made me chuckle. Im just about to go for a run. Guess what though, its a little bit addictive. I used to think, “why the freakin hell am I running, I freakin hate running”……and now I’m like “damn it, too busy to go for a run, and I get narked when I cant”. Trust me, give it a few weeks and you’ll be loving it. Well done!
Gahhh I hope I get to the point where I love it…we’ll see! Thanks for reading!
What a great post! I really enjoyed reading this. Thank you for sharing this valuable information with us. I have bookmarked this site and will be sure to check for updates. Keep up the good work!
Hi CHristian, thanks so much for stopping by and for your kind words! I hope you are just as entertained in the future!
Very Nice post. Really Enjoyed a lot.
Thanks so much!!
Cool.
After I read the post, I want to run too.
Thanks for sharing.
Hahaha I can’t believe that made you want to ruN! It was terrible! have fun and thanks for reading!
Even I do not want to become the one who complains about free beer…
Hahaha, I mean, free is free, right! My mom has a sign hanging on the fridge in my dad’s “man cave” that says “you cannot complain about the brand of free beer”, its so true! Thanks for reading!
Free beer is always good! 🙂
Always! Thanks for reading!
surprisingly, not that I have a lot remaining, but I had been pulling my hair out on the lookout for something on the subject of this topic today then simply right when I found myself gonna surrender your website turns up out of the blue
Glad I could help save your hair! Thanks for reading 🙂
such a good comment
Be careful with that running, you may come to love it and even get addicted to it! Your first half marathon will be a great achievement, enjoy the training and sacrifice along the way and learn more about yourself as you go.
THank you so much for the support and advice!
Just ran my first marathon over the weekend, seeeeeeeriously peeved off that I didn’t get a beer 😀 Well done!
Hahaha oh man! Someone should have stepped up and met you at the end with a beer! Great job!
You are brave! I still haven’t dared to run a distance race yet.
brave/stupid…one of the two! Thanks for reading!
Congrats to you! Running any race is something to be very proud of. I LOVE your pros and cons. This is hilarious
Thanks so much-I’m still sore! Gah! Thanks for reading
I would think picturing Neil Caffrey would be a great running motivator (b-e-a-u-tiful). On the other hand, I remember when I started running 10 years ago…wow. I could barely make it around a track, let alone finish a 5K. Kudos to you! Then I ran CC my last 2 years of college. I don’t think I’d be the runner I am today if I wasn’t thrown into races and surrounded by runners much better than me. So, yea, while races mean you are a very exposed, sweating, struggling (in my case injured and blubbering my first year) new runner…those races and running mates of all different abilities will get you to the finish line of your half marathon. And, if you wind up falling in love with running like I did (I know Neil Caffrey sounds much better to fall in love with right now), you might be in the middle of training for your first full marathon. Trust me, it is just as scary/exciting a feeling. You can follow my ridiculousness at http://www.iasrunning.com.
Oh my goodness he is the most beautiful man ever-those eyes! I die! Thanks for reading and I can’t wait to check your site out!
Those eyes, those abs….that hair. Geez. When will more episodes be on Netflix!? That show got me through hours on my bike trainer.
so, so pretty. I LOVE everything about that show-and I watched them all via-Netflix too!
Thanks for some great reading.
Inspirational!! Just how inspirational only time will tell. 🙂 Intend to, but still yet to introduce myself to the running public.
I enjoy my little runs to the pool for a swim. Do you think they will put a pool at the end to motivate me? Nah – I guess a Guinness will do the job.
Hahah a good beer always makes a great substitute! My half is going to be run down by the ocean-I think I’ll be taking a dip after!
This is so funny! (no i’m not laughing at your misery,) Btw Kudos for finishing.
Every first run is special and yes miserable so treasure it. Of course, you can only get better and please stop stop getting bitter at running races, you were the one who initiated of joining at the first place. hahaha.
I hope you will finish a half-marathon this year (with less suffering)!
Hey- you can feel free to laugh at my misery! That’s the only way I get through it! Thanks for reading!
I ran my first half marathon last May then stopped (bad decision)… you’ll build up to it, and it will go by in a flash. The first time I looked at the time it was 30 minutes in, then it was 2 hours in (I’m slow and finished in 2:48:53). You said you like to train alone, the half gives you lots of time to think! You’ll do great.
Hah-I’ll be lucky if I finish it in under 3 hours-PEOPLE RUN MARATHONS IN THAT AMOUNT OF TIME! Thanks for reading!
it’s funny i read someone having a hard time in running when i just wrote a post about a great i just had. you can read it under my blog, i hope you visit mine. anyway running can be addictive and its really good. 🙂
I’ll have to check it out to see the plus sides (if they really exist) of running!
oh i hope you find those sides. 🙂
Haha great post 😀 And congrats on your first road race!
Thanks for stopping by and reading!
Congatulations on your first race..I tried to post something before, BURT it didn’t appear.
I have run over 80,000 miles in 34 years and run races all over the world.
The best advise that i can give you is TAKE OUR SPORT SERIOUSLY.
Our sport as it is right now consists of too many Saurday morning garmin wearing yuppies, who USE our sport but don’t really like it.
The more you pay attention to our sport and gain an appreciation for the history and spirit of the sport, the more fun it will be.
Pay attention to NCAA cross country, the elite races and meets..for example last weekend were both the NCAA indoor championships and the world indoor championships and they were really cool..
Our sport on the road running level has been taken over by diletantes who glum on to the sport for charitable reasons or just another healthy form of socializing..
Nothing against charities, but if that is all you know about the sport, you are missing out.
Know who Vin Lananna is, know who David Smith is and Martin Smith, is and Alberto Salazar and Shalane Flanagan….read letsrun.com and watch the videos on flotrack.com
Then going to races will be 1000 times more fun..Congratulations!
Thanks so much for the advice-running is the hardest sport EVEr! Thank you for reading!
At least you ran it! Sounds like an awesome experience even if it was running in the mornings (i second the ugh).
I know-I’m pretty impressed with my self for getting out of bed and doing it 🙂 Thanks for reading!
There is a radio DJ in Austin who ran a marathon without any training, 27 miles! He got a beer at the end too 😉 #runLBrun
GOOD LORD! No training at all!? Did he die after? geez!
No, he’s still ticking 🙂
Great post! 🙂 Getting ready to run my first post-baby race this Spring. Congrats.
Thanks so much and good luck with your race!
Congrats on being freshly pressed!
Thank you so much! Its been a bit overwhelming-but lots of fun!
Reblogged this on facade. and commented:
relenting and complaining about all the cons before the race begins – my lifestory. ahahahahhaa.
Thanks for the re-blog! I know, I was already complaining about the race welllll before it started!
*berating, I mean! Hahahaha! Yesss, it totally relates! You are not alone 🙂
This was such an entertaining read, and you’re right running is totally love-hate! Your race – you’re ace. http://www.pilotfishmag.com
Thanks so so much!
Hey! Congrats on your race! I, too, loathe running. And I hate doing it in front of others. However, on Saturday I am doing a St. Patrick’s Day run as well. And I just turned 21!! So yay, I get a free beer too! Hopefully I can come to a “this wasn’t horrible” conclusion too! 🙂
Yay- Good luck and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!
Thanks! I’ll be posting this weekend on how the run goes 🙂
This article was a lot of fun! Totally gonna follow ya- looking fwd to more. I probably never would’ve seen it otherwise, but I’m doing my first walk/run later this month, and I’d decided to start doing this for much the same motivations. Your title caught my eye.
Thanks so much for stopping by and reading! And good luck with your running!
Running a half marathon really isn’t as bad as you think it’s going to be…I’m living proof! I ran my first half marathon Labor Day 2011–best experience of my life. It was totally worth the struggle, and I used to feel the same way about running as you do!
I hope I feel the same way as you after! Thanks for reading!
I have thinking of doing the half marathon too and dreading it, quite frankly. Loved the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading-and good luck with your half marathon!
Congratulations! I’m really not sure if I would survive such a race. I hate running and I love it at the same time, but last time I did it I injured my ankle, so I’m having a good excuse for not running now…but I kind of miss it, especially after reading your post!
It is ABSOLUTELY a love/hate relationship! Thanks for reading!
way to go!
I think it’s a love-hate relationship.; Funniest thing, I love to race, I like to train, I am NEVER in the mood to run or race on race day!
Isn’t is funny how that works? THanks for reading!
I’m proud of you! It’s really something you have to see and be a part of to believe, isn’t it? The electric energy of all of the people assembled. I’m training now for my second half-marathon and I think I may be addicted! People wore signs that said incredible things like “You’re so pretty and smart,” and “If it was easy, I’d be doing it!” I laughed out loud as I ran several times. Here’s a link to my recollections of that very first Half Marathon, in case you ever have the time and/or the inclination to check it out. The experience was truly a highlight of my entire life and I can’t wait to do it again in May. Cheers, fellow RunnerGirl!
Thank you so much for the support-I can’t wait to read your post!
Congrats on running your first race! I too hate running, but have recently become a little hooked on running races. It keeps me motivated, and since I know I’ll never actually WIN a race, I’ve started competing with myself to beat my own times. It’s pretty exciting when you get a PR!
Good luck to you, and congrats again!
Thank you so much for your kind words and support! And good luck with your racing!
Cute post and congrats on your first race. My first official 5k was last year (I ended up running two) and I ran my first 8k this year. Running a half-marathon is on my list for this year as well…like you I prefer to run alone, but unlike you, I actually like to run. It’s my thinking time.
Plus, I advise you to run an evening 5k…they always end with tons of beer. I got my “I hate to run” husband to actually volunteer to run the Oldsmar Taphouse 5k run last year. Good luck!
Beer is a GREAT motivator! Thanks for reading!
I enjoyed reading your post. I’m not a runner, but I would like to be. I ran 2-3 miles every other day a couple of years ago, but that stopped when things got busy. It was such a great stress reliever; I need to get back into it.
Thanks a lot for sharing! I’m going to share your blog on my Facebook and Twitter accounts.
It is so hard to get back into the habit once you’ve stopped! THanks for reading and sharing!
Hilarious! Very fun read 😀 and great job on your race. Now on to that half… 😉
THanks! I know…I’m already dreading it!
Kudos to you girl. It really doesn’t matter how fast or slow you ran. The point is completing what you started and that is a personal achievement on any level. Keep it going and you will soon find the fun in completing each race. My first race was 3.7km fun run and I actually enjoyed it. My first 12km was miserable as I finished it with cramps in both legs. I took it easy on my last 7km and spent more time taking pictures and actually enjoyed it so much. It does get better and knowing that I can complete a race that friends fear trying is a reward on its own.
For those of you who’d like to start running, maybe my blog might help you. http://definishline.wordpress.com/2012/01/27/the-running-man-lets-start/
Or if you keep finding excuses not to run http://definishline.wordpress.com/2012/02/28/what-is-your-xcuse/
It was the oddest thing but my foot fell asleep half way through the race! I would have almost preferred cramps! Thanks for reading and the advice! I can’t wait to check your blog out!
Reblogged this on Reaching The Finish Line and commented:
A fun read from a new runner. Show her some support here and maybe she would find the joy in running sooner that she thinks.
Thanks so much for the re-blog, I can’t wait to check the site out!
I ran my first half-marathon 2 years ago and it got me hooked!
Pro: Running is addictive. Once you get hooked you just get fitter and faster.
Con: Running is addictive. Before you know it, you’re in the middle of a marathon wondering what on earth you were thinking!
I just ‘raced’ (slowly) in a St Patrick’s day race too. The free beer was most definitely the highlight!
http://annamonganruns.wordpress.com/
Just thought…..you won the double! 5 mile run – check, Freshly Pressed – check! Congratulations!!
Thank you so much!
I hope I reach the point where I consider it a pro that I’m addicted-or that I’m addicted at all! Beer is always the highlight!
This is the perfect summary of exactly how I feel! Congrats on finishng and gluck with training.
Thanks so much…can I not so secretly admit that I haven’t run once since the race? I finally stopped being sore today! Woof.
I use to hate running when I first started training back in 2006. I did it as a form of self healing over a heart break. However a few years of running and tons of road races later, I realized that I loved running! It has finally become a part of my lifestyle. I am currently training for my second full marathon. However, congrats on finishing your race, you are considered epic in my books.
Thanks! I’ve never been called epic before-this is a pretty big moment for me! Congrats on all of your running and keep it up!
Reblogged this on Chatterclub.
Thanks so much for the re-blog!!
You are welcome.
It’s all attitude my love. I also don’t love running, but it’s a lot easier with the mental prep! How else did I run a marathon? And I’ll be right next to you running this race (literally) so we’ll totally make it and rock it! Believe me… it’s a struggle to get out on the roads right now (hence why I’m posting on your blog instead of running!) 🙂 Proud of you for 5 miles! Just think, you’ve run more than that playing a game of lax… you’ve got this! Positive thinking! 🙂
THANK GOODNESS YOU’LL BE RUNNING IT WITH ME!!!!!!
Congrats! Very inspiring! I am about to run my first ever 5K after losing 70lbs! I cannot wait! Would love for you to come by and check out my blog! All the best,
Brett
WOW! GOOD LUCK! I can’t wait to read about it!
I am running my first half this May and I am not a fan of running either. Some of your thoughts could mirror mine. 🙂
Good luck with your half and thanks for reading!
My thoughts on running exactly! Currently training for my first half marathon in June – it’s on my 30 before 30 list and one I’m most dreading. Sometimes I run with my mom’s three legged dog to make myself seem faster – is that wrong?
bahahaha that’s not wrong at all-ITS HILARIOUS! Keep running and thanks for reading!
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Thanks for reading!
As a fellow runner, I should be happy for you and your accomplishment- But I can’t be. If you don’t like to run then don’t but don’t ruin it for those of us that enjoy it. A bucketlist is a list of things one would like to accomplish in their lifetime, things one thinks they would enjoy doing. If you hated 5 miles, you’re going to hate the 8.1 that come after them too. Running is something that takes dedication and heart- dedication you may have but heart you do not.
Good luck on your journey but I will no longer be reading from this blog.
I’m very sorry that I upset you, it wasn’t my intention to offend. I understand that not everybody appreciates sarcasm and my tone. It is not my belief that everything on a bucket list should be easy and fun, I chose to put things on my list that challenge me and are difficult at times. Even though I am not enjoying running at this point, but I have no intention of giving up on it, not only because it is on my list, but because I m running my half marathon in honor of my grandmother who passed away and to raise money for the Dana Farber Institute. I am sorry to hear that you believe I have no heart- that is your prerogative, and I am sorry you do not care for the blog, but that is the beauty of the blogoshpere-you can chose to read/not read whatever you want. Sorry to lose you as a reader, but I’m glad you stopped by to try it out.
If a blog post on a personal experience with running can ruin your ability to enjoy running yourself…well then that’s just sad!
Whit- thanks for writing about running experiences that most people can relate to. It’s very refreshing. And you go girl!
First off, I love your writing style! And I totally agree: there’s just no downside to free beer 😉
And don’t dread the half marathon!! I HATE/LOATHE/DESPISE running 5 and 10Ks, but the half is awesome! Once you get past the 7 mile marker, you sit there (oh, who am I kidding, there’s no breaks, except when you have to pee) and you keep telling yourself, “I can’t believe I’ve run this far! I can’t quit now!” It’s a great feeling! Plus, the comatose nap that comes after it when you fall through your front door is one of the best naps you’ll ever have. 😉 Just make sure you get up later and go for a nice long walk and stretch 😉
THank you so much! I keep hearing that it gets better after mile 6 or 7…I just hope I make it to that!!!!! I am already excited for the nap 🙂 Thanks for reading!
Congratulations firstly on such an excellent post, it truly is amazing and secondly congratulations on completing the run and earning a free beer (why doesn’t every race do this!?)
I’m running the equivalent of a full maraton on my own (!!!) for charity in a month and this post has really helped me not to dread it so much. Your light-hearted take on running has eased my nerves somewhat largely, so thank you very much.
Thank you so much for your kind words. I try not to take my attempts t running too seriously- otherwise it would be way too depressing! It definitely helps to try and stay light hearted. Good luck with your running!
I absolutely love your website.. Great colors & theme. Did you build this web site yourself? Please reply back as I’m attempting to create my very own website and would like to find out where you got this from or what the theme is named. Thanks!
Hi there! Parts of it are my own and parts are from wordpress. The theme is wordpress, I believe it is “coraline” I made all the buttons myself…let me know if you need to know anything else!
I loved to be deceived by pictures…hehehe. Good luck in your next run!
Thanks so much! And thanks for reading!
Whitney – I enjoy your blog! I am a runner and I just posted a blog on “what runners think about”. Thought you may be interested: http://zinnrunner.com/2012/03/21/what-do-runners-think-about/
Good luck!
Thanks! I cant wait to check it out!
Good post. I learn something totally new and challenging on websites I stumbleupon everyday. It’s always useful to read through articles from other writers and use something from their sites.
Thanks so much for stopping by!
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I just ran my very first race on Saturday! It was actually an obstacle course-mud run thing, and it was awesome! And painful! ‘course, I am MUCH older than you, but I was running with a girl your age who also was dragging ass, so I felt better. It was 6 miles. I swore never to do it again. Guess who’s going to be doing it again in May? So, great blog! Glad to find you!
Hahah I find that that’s exactly how I am after my runs! I always say I’ll never do it again! Thanks for reading!
Hello.This post was really fascinating, particularly because I was looking for thoughts on this issue last couple of days.
I have been reading out many of your posts and i must say clever stuff. I will surely bookmark your blog.