I really want to run in NYC, but I don't have the guts to run the full marathon. The thought has crossed my mind to do the 5K but it's a pretty pricey endeavor for a 5K that doesn't even give a medal to show for it.
I found the NYC United Airlines half marathon a few years back but the March race date always became a deterrent. After completing my last Disney Race on my bucket list ( the Wine n Dine), it became more apparent that there were other races I wanted to run so I set some intentions to run big city races and of course NYC would HAVE to be one of them.
So, I'll be running the New York City half marathon this March.
I did not get into the lottery, Scott purchased the race registration for me for Christmas through a travel partner which honestly was the best way to do it. By going through the travel partner we are getting top notch hotel accommodations and race day transportation taken care of as well as some other incidentals. This is a huge relief for me as I would have stressed out about trying to find the best hotel and on how to navigate to the start line by myself.
Okay, so here is the part where I ask you not to judge me. I'm pretty sure this race is going to be a one and done for me (but then again I said that about my first marathon), but really, I'm pretty sure. For this reason I want to concentrate on just taking in the experience and not having ANY time goals. I'll do what I can and that will be it.
I know I often say I have no time goals but secretly in my mind I usually have a time to beat (don't we all do that?). But this time it is different for several reasons.
*Edit: The weather here has been nicer than expected so perhaps I will be able to get more outdoor runs in than I had originally anticipated (If I can find the time).
2. I know another thing that will slow me down are the hills in Central Park. I don't have hills to train on here but I am doing more incline runs on the treadmill.
3. I'm prepared for race day to be MISERABLE (I mean weather wise). I'm prepared for colder temps up in NY and gusty winds.
4. I'll be running by myself. I don't actually mind running by myself, it just means that I can run my own pace and do my own thing and not feel obligated to keep up or slow down to someone else's pace. However, when I run with my sister I do feel like she keeps me motivated.
5. My only goal is to just finish and grab a few iconic pics along the way.
I already know for these reasons that this will be a tough race for me mentally, but I'm looking forward to it!
Will you be training over the winter for a long distance race? -M