One more accomplishment down

I had my 5k race this morning. No, I didn't win - shocker, I know. But, I didn't come in last, and as many people know, that was my only goal!

As for the stats, I finished in 39:04 which equates to a 12:34/mile pace. I wanted to finish in 38 minutes but as a new runner, I found a few things were up against me. The race officials decided to start the course on a steep hill - yeah, I wasn't pleased about that, something about a mix up and they decided to move the starting point down the hill about two tenths of a mile so that we would have to run up it for the start of the race, why didn't they just have us do an extra lap around the park at the end? They obviously forgot to consult with me to find out I only started running nine weeks ago and I wasn't completely hip with the idea of starting my first 5k experience on a ridiculously steep hill! I'm not bitter. The hill was the only bad part of the race and it was the only time I walked; when I started running I think I tried to keep up with all the other runners (something I promised myself I wouldn't do) and my legs would just not move me all the way up that hill, so I ended up walking for about a tenth of a mile. When I got to the top of the hill I picked up the pace to a run and didn't stop until I hit the finish line.

Mother Nature wasn't kind to me either, it was 40 degrees at race time with ridiculous headwinds. Soooo cold! Actually, I shouldn't complain, it was much worse for my family who had to wait for me at the finish line, at least I was doing a form of exercise that warmed me up. I believe the strong headwind and the fact I had to walk up part of that hill kept me from hitting the finish line in under 38 minutes but I'm really happy I finished, and finished strong. Now that I look back on it, I'm happy I faced those obstacle so that I can be more prepared next time.

Yes, there will be a next time. I will still be running the 5k on October 20th and I'm also looking at two other races between now and November 10th. I think I'm a bit addicted and I love that I enjoy something so healthy for me.

We don't have the greatest pictures because as I said, it was so cold and Rob was taking care of Avery and pictures seemed to be the last thing on the agenda. But, Rob did get a few. They're not the best pictures but they show you a bit of my first race.  39:04. Not too bad for a newbie.

The start of the race - the picture doesn't do the hill justice, it got steeper. Notice how I'm still smiling? I obviously wasn't feeling any pain yet. YET.

I'm still smiling! This was actually near the end of the run and I was waving hello to Avery. She was so cute, she had a huge smile on her face when she saw me!

I just crossed the finish line. Notice how quickly I stopped running? Yeah, I was pooped. But exhilerated! Weird how that happens.

Here I am talking to some race officials. Probably something about that bleeping hill at the start!

Now,,, on to the next one!!!

Comments

[Diane]

Jenny, you were amazing!! You are truly an inspiration to me, Mom, Rob and Avery! We were all so very proud. Maybe I will have to start this Couch to 5k program. I can't tell you how wonderful it was to watch you accomplish this goal, you were glowing. I think you have proved to yourself (and the rest of us) that anything is possible with time, hard work and dedication. What a great role model you are for your daughter.

Do I hear the whispers of MARATHON???

[Sus]

That is SO AWESOME!!! I am seriously so proud of you. WAY TO GO!

[Allknowingjen]

Woo hoo! It looks like you had FUN! Way to go Jen!
That sucks about the hill thing- but I am so impressed that you got past it and went on to a great time!!!

[Lins]

Jen -well done I am SO impressed and in awe!

[Jen]

way to go jen!!!

i am so impressed.

and i will be happy to send you some krimpets as a well done!

you can burn off the calories at the next race!!