Running

September 26, 2020: it’s the big day. I slept great, I look out the window – it’s still dark so I can’t see the clouds that moved in overnight, nor can I tell that it’s raining. I check the temperature – 48 degrees – perfect! The morning is off to a great start – Niki, Ryan, and Scarlett are here. Justin Katie, and Charlee just FaceTimed to wish me good luck, and our hotel is only minutes from the start. Out we go . . . we pass the horses all saddled up and ready for their morning ride. Then it hits me – the rain! No big deal, my 1/2 marathon PR was accomplished in a downpour. I’m so ready for this race! It’s the event that kicked off this big adventure. I signed up for the race back in February when the trip was only going to be a week long? Wow! How things have changed since then!!

I look around at the start. I don’t see many people my age. (are they wise enough to stay in on a day like this?). Yep, I’m old and I’m still running. In these temps and these conditions and this altitude (6300 feet). Why? Because I absolutely love it!

When the wind kicked up and I thought it was going to blow me over, I kept going. I didn’t mind the wind because I felt it at mile 9 giving me a much needed push from behind. At mile 10 the rain was pelting me so hard in the face that I ran sideways for awhile – lol! I think I laughed and smiled the entire race. Yes, the race was my 2nd hardest ever – but that made crossing the finish line that much more satisfying. I didn’t PR, but I was OK with my 2:37 finish. It was faster than my first ever 1/2 marathon ran in Pittsburgh 10 years ago (who says you have to slow down with age?). The highlight of the race wasn’t the Tetons (which you couldn’t see because of the cloud cover), it was my family – Niki and Scarlett – cheering for me at the finish. They stood out in the cold and rain to help me make it across the finish line. I no longer thought about how cold I was – my thoughts turned to how lucky I am! So when you are faced with a challenge, when things get a little tough, when the “ rain is pelting you in the face”, think of something that makes you laugh and/or makes you smile. Think of the family and friends that support you – be strong! Think about how lucky you are! The sun will come out tomorrow!

ps – I kind of feel like a bad ass right now!

Jackson Hole 1/2 Marathon

On September 26th, I will be running the Jackson Hole 1/2 marathon with my niece, Niki Ford. I am so excited to be able to compete in my first official race since March. So many of the others that we were scheduled to run were cancelled. (including the St. Georges Utah race which I was scheduled to run on 10/3) The one thing that I remember about the Jackson Hole race (I ran it in 2018) was the last 3 miles running towards the Grand Tetons! Stay tuned for photos of one of the most magnificent places in America!