Since I completed a full marathon last year, my plan was to do shorter distances and improve my speed. This year I have improved my average pace and even hit a few PRs! Things are going well so far and starting to gear up for my fall races.
I participated in a #RunChat and won a free entry for Race 13.1. I was completely shocked because I know a ton of people put their entries in and I didn't think I had a chance of winning. In the past I have won a few things from running chats and very thankful. I've learned about new running gear, equipment, shoes, training, etc from seasoned runners. I trust runner's actual reviews over online ones.
I had the choice between Roanoke, VA or Nashville, TN. As much as I would have liked running in a new state my race schedule convinced me to go with Roanoke, VA. I signed up for my very first Spartan race in September and the race in Nashville is about a week apart and I don't think it would be the best idea. Anyways, I ran in Virginia last year but the course looks challenging and scenic in Roanoke so I'm really excited to try it.
I had the choice of a 5K, 10K, or half. I was between a 10K or the half, and ultimately decided on the half. I have been running since January so I know I have enough base miles in, just my normal half marathon training schedule is 3 months, so its a gamble doing a shorter training schedule. Hopefully, I complete it. I'm not going to try to PR, I just need to focus on making it to the finish line.
I'm at 12 races now for the year, it might be less, might be more. Either way I'm going to give it my best shot and hope for no injuries.
Here is a link to the half I plan to run next month: Race 13.1
