Sunday, September 30, 2007
Capital Pursuit 2007
I did Capital Pursuit today, a beautiful 10 mile run in downtown Des Moines and through the Drake University area of town. This was my first race since I began training regularly. I was a little nervous this morning, mostly because I knew this is typically a pretty fast field. The course was secured for a 12 min pace. Yikes....My paces lately have been pretty high, depending on the day, some in the high 12's, 13's and even some days I have been in the 14's with more walking. I've been joking about whether or not I needed to memorize the course. I knew I would finish with some walking, but I also wanted to have a decent race and get an official time. My husband encouraged me to treat it like any other long run and also just to have fun.
I felt pretty out-of-place at the start. I didn't really know anyone and they all looked like amazing athletes to me. I did strike up a conversation with another gal who had a water belt on -- we were practically the only ones. I felt like such a novice and joked, doesn't anyone else need water? I told her my fear was the stations would be closed when I came through. She laughed but I told her I was hoping for around 13 pace. She was so encouraging and nice and said a year ago she had 70 pounds to lose after her 4th pregnancy and could barely move. I told her she looked amazing. Then someone came by and congratulated her on her last HM pace of 8:30. GULP. I asked for her to cheer for me at the end!
Finally we got going and I felt pretty good. Most of the pack had left me by about .5 mile! The first mile seemed to take forever and I thought I must be doing a good job of conserving. 10:59? Uh oh. I kept moving and didn't seem to have any ill effects from the quicker pace. I found some other women back of the back of the packers. For the first 3 or 4 miles the course continued to be secured, and I tried to keep with the 12min cop car. I had to fall back alittle but kept it in my sights and only walked through water stations. Some gals were run-walking and I stayed with them somewhat.
At mile 5 we were all together and I saw my husband and kids. I said, "my babies!" and got a little teary. They had gatorade and a little cup of Sports Beans. They tasted awesome. I caught the walkers and each took a bean. Then I left them for good! What a boost. This was a strange part for me though. I was nearly maintaining a 12 pace, totally shocking myself (and I think my hubby too) and for all intents and purposes, having the run of my life, yet, I was behind the cop car and nearly last. I tried to tell myself not to be lonely or get down and just think of it as my normal run. It was a little hard, though, definitely humbling, but fun and I was so happy that I was running well and my body seemed to be holding up.
The water stop at 6 was out of water and packing up. After that, I struggled to stay with the pack up van! :) No problem, I had my own little crew. Hubby kept driving ahead and stopping. The kids would yell, "GO MOM GO!" Thank God, because I hardly saw anyone else!! One lady asked me, "what is this?" My smart alek reply: "the back of the pack!" I turned the corner at 7 and thought, 3 miles, all down hill, I can do this!! I continued to see my crew and then the pack up crew. I think 8.5 to 9 was maybe the hardest, but not that hard and I kept moving. I kept thinking that I couldn't believe how well I was still moving and feeling.
When I got back into downtown for the last mile, I started seeing people leaving with medals. I really was the only runner I could see looking forward. I never looked back though. I thought it might make me sad. Most people cheered and that kept me going. I could still see the cop car! I should have never looked at myself in the storefront windows, I thought I looked horrible but also was proud that I was finishing. My sweet crew was a few feet in front of the finish, they cheered me in and saw me get my medal. I walked over to the gatorade and then back to my crew. I remembered to stop Garmin at the gatorade stand and was astounded to see 2:04 for 10.24 miles ~ 12:10 pace !! I really hadn't looked that much and had originally thought I would be around 2:15 or even 2:30 possibly. I must have started Garmin a little early and of course, didn't shut it off right away, but I was still fairly amazed. ** official time** 2:00:58
We were standing there a few minutes when one of the gals I had passed (I think there were only 3 or 4!) came in, I cheered for her but I don't think she heard me. Right then, they started taking down the finish line!! It hit me then, that I should at least get an official time!! I walked back and saw Tom Green from Runner's Lounge and my shoe guy and spoke to both briefly.
For my first real race, I really don't think this could have gone any better. My hydration and energy were great and my body held up. Feet are a little sore but they were troupers. I never really was that winded, which I just can't believe at this pace. I am humbled by the 900 or so people that finished well ahead of me and wonder if I could've pushed myself a little more. I will update if/when I get an official time. My crew was the best. Thanks Curtis, Nate and Jay!
I felt pretty out-of-place at the start. I didn't really know anyone and they all looked like amazing athletes to me. I did strike up a conversation with another gal who had a water belt on -- we were practically the only ones. I felt like such a novice and joked, doesn't anyone else need water? I told her my fear was the stations would be closed when I came through. She laughed but I told her I was hoping for around 13 pace. She was so encouraging and nice and said a year ago she had 70 pounds to lose after her 4th pregnancy and could barely move. I told her she looked amazing. Then someone came by and congratulated her on her last HM pace of 8:30. GULP. I asked for her to cheer for me at the end!
Finally we got going and I felt pretty good. Most of the pack had left me by about .5 mile! The first mile seemed to take forever and I thought I must be doing a good job of conserving. 10:59? Uh oh. I kept moving and didn't seem to have any ill effects from the quicker pace. I found some other women back of the back of the packers. For the first 3 or 4 miles the course continued to be secured, and I tried to keep with the 12min cop car. I had to fall back alittle but kept it in my sights and only walked through water stations. Some gals were run-walking and I stayed with them somewhat.
At mile 5 we were all together and I saw my husband and kids. I said, "my babies!" and got a little teary. They had gatorade and a little cup of Sports Beans. They tasted awesome. I caught the walkers and each took a bean. Then I left them for good! What a boost. This was a strange part for me though. I was nearly maintaining a 12 pace, totally shocking myself (and I think my hubby too) and for all intents and purposes, having the run of my life, yet, I was behind the cop car and nearly last. I tried to tell myself not to be lonely or get down and just think of it as my normal run. It was a little hard, though, definitely humbling, but fun and I was so happy that I was running well and my body seemed to be holding up.
The water stop at 6 was out of water and packing up. After that, I struggled to stay with the pack up van! :) No problem, I had my own little crew. Hubby kept driving ahead and stopping. The kids would yell, "GO MOM GO!" Thank God, because I hardly saw anyone else!! One lady asked me, "what is this?" My smart alek reply: "the back of the pack!" I turned the corner at 7 and thought, 3 miles, all down hill, I can do this!! I continued to see my crew and then the pack up crew. I think 8.5 to 9 was maybe the hardest, but not that hard and I kept moving. I kept thinking that I couldn't believe how well I was still moving and feeling.
When I got back into downtown for the last mile, I started seeing people leaving with medals. I really was the only runner I could see looking forward. I never looked back though. I thought it might make me sad. Most people cheered and that kept me going. I could still see the cop car! I should have never looked at myself in the storefront windows, I thought I looked horrible but also was proud that I was finishing. My sweet crew was a few feet in front of the finish, they cheered me in and saw me get my medal. I walked over to the gatorade and then back to my crew. I remembered to stop Garmin at the gatorade stand and was astounded to see 2:04 for 10.24 miles ~ 12:10 pace !! I really hadn't looked that much and had originally thought I would be around 2:15 or even 2:30 possibly. I must have started Garmin a little early and of course, didn't shut it off right away, but I was still fairly amazed. ** official time** 2:00:58
We were standing there a few minutes when one of the gals I had passed (I think there were only 3 or 4!) came in, I cheered for her but I don't think she heard me. Right then, they started taking down the finish line!! It hit me then, that I should at least get an official time!! I walked back and saw Tom Green from Runner's Lounge and my shoe guy and spoke to both briefly.
For my first real race, I really don't think this could have gone any better. My hydration and energy were great and my body held up. Feet are a little sore but they were troupers. I never really was that winded, which I just can't believe at this pace. I am humbled by the 900 or so people that finished well ahead of me and wonder if I could've pushed myself a little more. I will update if/when I get an official time. My crew was the best. Thanks Curtis, Nate and Jay!
Labels: humble pie, PR, Race Report
# posted by Non-Runner Nancy @ 11:50 AM 
Comments:
<< Home
First, great job! Second, awesome race report. Mine are usually like - this mile was ok, that mile sucked, then I finished.
I did an HM back in May and there was no crowd support, which sucked. It is fantastic that your family followed you down the course for support.
I think most people feel out of place at the start (at least I do and I did my first half and whole marathon knowing no one). But, the great thing I've learned is that there is comraderie among runners and unless someone is super uptight they'll chat and make small talk.
Congrats again - screw the official time, you crossed the finish line and have your medal...
I did an HM back in May and there was no crowd support, which sucked. It is fantastic that your family followed you down the course for support.
I think most people feel out of place at the start (at least I do and I did my first half and whole marathon knowing no one). But, the great thing I've learned is that there is comraderie among runners and unless someone is super uptight they'll chat and make small talk.
Congrats again - screw the official time, you crossed the finish line and have your medal...
Nancy, your post gave me CHILLS! Way to go!!!! I knew you would do well, and way to go on the 12 minute miles!!! It may seem slow in some circles of the running community (although not to me :)) but do you realize that most of the general public couldnt average even CLOSE to that pace for 10 MILES??? It is a HUGE accomplishment!!!
I would kill for a 12 minute pace during my half in November... you have inspired me!!! :)
Awesome job!
I would kill for a 12 minute pace during my half in November... you have inspired me!!! :)
Awesome job!
Yeah!!!! Great Job! I'm so happy for you. Way to stick through it and not getting frustrated seeing everyone packing up. So wonderful your family stayed with you for support. That always makes me a bit emotional seeing my supporters.
I too feel out of place at the start. Your description is how I feel every race. So you're not the only one.
Wear your race shirt and medal proudly - you earned it!
I too feel out of place at the start. Your description is how I feel every race. So you're not the only one.
Wear your race shirt and medal proudly - you earned it!
CONGRATS on your race!!!!
And the family support was out of this world!
I have never done a 10 mile race. We mostly have 5 & 10K's.
By the way I have been followed and passed by many a cop car in some races ;)
Your doing awsome!
Have A Great Week!
CC
And the family support was out of this world!
I have never done a 10 mile race. We mostly have 5 & 10K's.
By the way I have been followed and passed by many a cop car in some races ;)
Your doing awsome!
Have A Great Week!
CC
Congratulations! Your post made me cry! There is nothing, and I mean nothing that makes you feel as loved as turning a corner and seeing the family cheerleaders. :)
I get chills just reading that. My experience is that the back of the pack is friendly. (Not saying the mid-pack isn't, just I never make it there.) Usually people have great stories and are willing to chit chat pre-race.
I get chills just reading that. My experience is that the back of the pack is friendly. (Not saying the mid-pack isn't, just I never make it there.) Usually people have great stories and are willing to chit chat pre-race.
Congratulations on the finish! Official time or not, you ran the route and you did the work. I totally agree about seeing your family -- how inspiring their presence is! Awesome job, and here's to the feet ready for another one a bit longer in only a few weeks.
Congratulations. That's a great time and you and your crew did a fantastic job. I know how hard it is to be at the back, but YOU DID IT!!!
Best,
Cranky
Best,
Cranky
Nancy,
I thought of you all morning and hoped you were having a fabulous race! Your story gave me goosebumps and tears - you showed the spirit of a runner for the full race! I have finished last and behind the cars 3 times in my life and everytime they make me a little prouder. I have no doubt that some spectator said, "wow, look at her determination - she is out there doing it - I wish I could to". You are my hero!!! You are a runner!
Amy
http://blog.runnerslounge.com
I thought of you all morning and hoped you were having a fabulous race! Your story gave me goosebumps and tears - you showed the spirit of a runner for the full race! I have finished last and behind the cars 3 times in my life and everytime they make me a little prouder. I have no doubt that some spectator said, "wow, look at her determination - she is out there doing it - I wish I could to". You are my hero!!! You are a runner!
Amy
http://blog.runnerslounge.com
Wow! Awesome race! I loved reading about it!! A 12:10 pace is superb, especially for 10 miles. I am so glad you made it and got an official time. Kudos!
Nancy, I saw a lot of runners out there today and was more proud of you than all the rest. Your determination is inspiring! What a great first 10 mile race! We can only imagine how proud your husband and babies must be of you.
Recover well and you will be so ready for your half marathon!
Congratulations!
Recover well and you will be so ready for your half marathon!
Congratulations!
Great job, Nancy! I thought of you today. I think you need to change your title because you ARE a runner!
you wear that medal as long as you want girl!!! you deserve it! great job - so fun to read your report! loved the part about "never looking back". good motto for not just a race, but life. nice job!
I totally know what you mean by feeling out of place. I NEVER feel like a "runner" when I'm in a race setting LOL
You DID AWESOME!! I know I've said this a billion times but you're so stinkin cute! And I looooveeee your attitude!! We're so proud of you!!!
You DID AWESOME!! I know I've said this a billion times but you're so stinkin cute! And I looooveeee your attitude!! We're so proud of you!!!
Great job, Nancy! Congratulations on your 10 mile race - what a wonderful sense of accomplishment. I'm going to add you to my blogroll - just love your blog!
Keep running!
Sandy
Keep running!
Sandy
Enjoyed your report. Glad you hung in there to the end. I just finished my first HM -- good luck next month.
Bob A
Bob A
Nice work Nancy!
I won't claim to be able to identify with your perspective on the race, but I have nothing but respect for the back of the packers; I always cheer 'em on once I'm done :)
Sounds like an extremely rewarding experience; again, good job!
I won't claim to be able to identify with your perspective on the race, but I have nothing but respect for the back of the packers; I always cheer 'em on once I'm done :)
Sounds like an extremely rewarding experience; again, good job!
Oh, Nancy, that's so fantastic! HUGE congratulations to you!! I only hope that I can feel as inspired to just keep going when I do my first race :)
Congratulations, Nancy. I sometimes get discouraged that I'm not faster, but a wise running friend constantly reminds me to "run your own race". Sounds like you ran just the right pace for you, felt great, finished strong, had fun and made your family proud. Success!
I loved your race report, Nancy. It was perfect. Sounded like a wonderful first race of the training season too! I love seeing my family along the race course, or near the finish. When I ran the CIM last December I choked back serious tears when I saw my daughter at mile 26 (just .2 away from the finish). When you train so hard and put so much time into it, you realize the impact it has on your entire family. It's like they're training with you in spirit, so it's so natural to be overcome with emotion when you see them during your races. It's actually wonderful!!! Great job and so glad you're happy about the race. You're inspiring!
Congratulations Nancy! You may not have had a huge crowd of supporters lining the streets, but you did have a huge "virtual crowd" here on the web wishing you only the best. I'm so happy to hear that everything went well, and that your feet didn't give you too much grief. If you can do 10, you know you can do 13.1.
I think it's time to change the title to "Notes of a Former Non-Runner". Three cheers for "Runner Nancy"!
I think it's time to change the title to "Notes of a Former Non-Runner". Three cheers for "Runner Nancy"!
What an amazing story! I feel like you do in some shorter local races and I am shocked that they packed up the water stations before you were reaching them. That's really rude!
Anyway, congrats! You did an awesome job!
Anyway, congrats! You did an awesome job!
Just thinking, and I know others have said this, but you really might want to re-consider your "non-runner Nancy" title. You are SO a runner now! Especially after your awesome race! How about New-Runner Nancy?
Isn't racing fun? You smoked that course.
If we do better than we anticpate, than we are indeed winners.
I think you should have a contest to rename your blog. The names gotta change.
If we do better than we anticpate, than we are indeed winners.
I think you should have a contest to rename your blog. The names gotta change.
Nancy!! Awesome job!!!!! You totally rocked that race!! Now there are no doubts, YOU ARE A RUNNER!!!!
Great race report!! Very inspiring!
Great race report!! Very inspiring!
Wow! I'm so proud of you. What a great effort! And your own personal crew. What sports they are too.
After reading all the troubles you had to get here it's great to see that you had a great experience. I know even with the foot issues you are going to continue to rock your races.
You totally need to change your blog name now though!
After reading all the troubles you had to get here it's great to see that you had a great experience. I know even with the foot issues you are going to continue to rock your races.
You totally need to change your blog name now though!
Awesome job with the race! Those are some pretty tough cutoffs for a 10-miler. I've seen times of over 3 hours posted in the 10-milers here and they keep the finish line open until the last person crosses.
If you stay consistant with your training, I'll bet you will get stronger and faster than you ever thought possible.
Great job!!
If you stay consistant with your training, I'll bet you will get stronger and faster than you ever thought possible.
Great job!!
That is FABULOUS!! Look at you go!! I'm super impressed, I would love to maintain that pace for 10 miles. You did a great job and deserve that medal. (I had to stay in front of the sweep car at the Chicago marathon, so I know how it feels when you are pushing to keep up!).
Congrats Nancy!!!
I am so happy for you. That is an absolutely wonderful time for anybody and it is so cool that you had your own cheering section. Now... get rid of that NON RUNNER thing already.
You The Woman!
Post a Comment
I am so happy for you. That is an absolutely wonderful time for anybody and it is so cool that you had your own cheering section. Now... get rid of that NON RUNNER thing already.
You The Woman!
<< Home
Subscribe to Posts [Atom]
