Running Alone

On Saturday, I'll wake up at 5:45 am.

I'll drive to downtown Indy alone.

I am guessing I'll blast Nicki Minaj to wake me up and get motivated. 

I'll need the motivation more than ever before....Why?

Because I won't have a running partner.

I won't have anyone pushing me through the final mile.

I won't have anyone waiting for me at the finish line.

When I'm hurting, I'll have to push myself to finish. And when I'm running too fast, I'll need to slow myself down. I need to have a consistent pace to meet my goal.

Saturday morning will be a challenge.

I have a lot to prove to myself.

To be honest, I'm feeling really good about this race.

I went for a quick run tonight - the first "real" run since my injury.

Rocking my hipster glasses.
Straight out of the 1970s from Grandma Kaye.

I told myself to run the fastest mile I could - and then I would finish home with intervals. I knew by going faster early, I would prove that I still my running mojo.

And I had an amazing pace - the best I've had in a LONG time!!

Yes, a bird crapped on me while I was running today.
#RunnersProblems

The first mile was VERY strong - about a 10:20 pace. I slowed down (obviously) during the second mile because I was doing walking and running intervals. I didn't want to over-do anything with my injury.

My goal is to finish the 5K in under 38 minutes. That would be maintaining a 12 minute mile or less, which I believe is definitely possible!

For the half marathon on May 19, I'd like my pace to be under 13 minute miles, which would put me finishing in about 2:45- a PR by about 10 minutes!!

I can do hit my goals.

I will hit my goals.

I'll be reading tweets, Facebook posts, texts and emails all morning - so maybe I won't be alone. I'll have you all to inspire, encourage and motivate me. Thank you for your love and support! I'll really need it this weekend!

Much love,
Ashley