It's Getting Closer

Rock n Roll Chicago is almost here! I'm so excited for this race! Not only because it's the inaugural event and we'll be running through Grant Park and along the GORGEOUS lakefront paths, but because I haven't run a half marathon since June 14th. And since I'm just incorporating this race into my marathon training, I don't need to take a taper week. *Sigh* Life is good.

There are so many things that I love about racing. Yes, the goodie bag is definitely one of my favorites, but it's not the best. Not by a long shot. When I was in high school and my parents would come to watch my races, they were always so impressed with the way that the runners conducted themselves. They cheered loud for ALL participants, not just their teammates. They high-fived all competitors in their race. Sportsmanship is the best among runners.

It's nice to know that nothing has changed. This is most evident during the Chicago Marathon. There are some spectators that wait until every participant has passed them before moving on. They cheer so loud it's incredible. And trust me, it totally helps when you're running out of gas to hear someone tell you that you're doing great. I also love people with funny running signs.

I know that this race is supposed to be HUGE and that part has me a little worried. Plus there's a wave start, and I've never done anything like that before. I hope that I will have room to find my groove, and won't have to spend the 2nd half of the race playing catch-up if I fall behind my target pace. The biggest bummer is that the race STARTS at 6:30- it's horrifying to think about what time I need to get up Sunday morning, since I'm traveling from the northwest suburbs.

I always find that the night before the race is so hard for me to get to sleep. My body is tired, but my mind is completely awake. I'm trying to remember everything that I need to bring to the race. (Do I have band aids? Chafe gel? A towel?) I'm also so excited. Like, night-before-leaving-for-Vegas excited. That was how I felt the night before the Wisconsin Marathon, and look how well I did at that one.

I should think about some more things that I love about racing. The competition, besting myself against other midpackers. The sheer joy of crossing the finish line, elation at being done (hopefully) in a PR time. A nice tour of the city that I can get while the rest of it is still asleep (or stumbling home from the late-night bars). I love challenging other people in my head, saying, "Well before 9am I ran a half marathon. What did YOU do?" It makes me feel superior. And super-good about myself.

I'm most excited about the Runner's High. I don't believe it's a myth. I'm literally floating high above the clouds when I get done with a half marathon. Even though I still have miles (or city blocks... or El stops... or car rides) to go before I can get a shower and a nap, it doesn't matter. I'm happy regardless. Running gives me confidence. It gives me courage. It gives me freedom. And sometimes, it gives me a medal when I'm finished for the day...