Here’s a topic that I am so incredibly excited to blog about: today is my 1 year runniversary! 1 year ago today I ran in my very first 5k! Typing those words still makes me so proud! Since then I’ve run 8 races varying in length, but you never forget your first.
I started running last summer because I went for nightly walks on the multi-use trail at Ridley Creek State Park with (my then fiance) Andrew, and I always saw people running and thought, “I wonder if I could do that”. I decided one day that I would try to run a mile, and to my surprise I did it! I slowly increased my milage, bought a cheap watch to time myself, and started making running a serious part of my life. After being able to run 3 miles without stopping, I began thinking about running a 5k. It had always been a secret goal of mine to run one, and I knew at that point I could physically do it. I looked online and by chance found an upcoming 5k in Ridley Creek State Park – the very park where I was running every day! I worried about it for days – I’m not a real runner, I don’t know how races work, I’m so new, what if I can’t finish – but eventually I convinced myself to sign up. And on October 7, 2012 I became a finisher in the Second Annual Power Run for Alex’s Lemonade Stand. I finished in 32:20 and came in 81 out of 113. So not only did I finish, I wasn’t last place! The race was mentally tough for me, and I learned that running near 113 other people is different than running alone. I also learned how important it is to pace yourself in the beginning and not go out too strong 🙂 But the most important thing I learned is that I am a runner!
FIrst 5k ever!
Tell me about your first 5k! Were you really nervous? How long ago was it?
Mom in the Mtns 
My first 5k was a mess. It was super hot and humid and the race was an on out and back on a busy, highway shoulder with the sun blasting down on us. I walked twice and teared up because I was struggling, which was really embarrassing for me since I had been a states qualifying hurdler for years. It was a good eye opener though and I’m eternally grateful for everything I learned from the experience. Congrats on your runniversary! You rock!
Thanks! Yeah mine wasn’t the best run ever, I’m so glad I’m done with my “newbie” stage in running. I’m still a mess sometimes but at least I know a bit more than I did last year!