This week was my third week in a row of races, and it marked the end of tough six month stretch of training, but it was a pretty good ending for me as I finished my first ever marathon on Saturday, June 14th. This race was not easy and really was indicative of how well I trained for six months, and what things I could have done better to prepare. Overall I am very happy to announce my first ever Marathon time was 2:34.45 in the Utah Valley Marathon from Wallsburg to Provo Center Street. I go eighth overall and second in my age group.
Overall, I was a little disappointed with my time, as I shooting for a sub-2:30 debut, but it didn't happen. I quickly realized, especially more so in marathons, you must train to run longer distance runs than 15-17 miles. I started out really well, running a 5:38 pace for the first 13.1 miles only to hit the wall at mile 15, and kind of struggling from there on out. It was a very painful experience those last 11 miles as I had to struggle with muscle soreness, cramping, and difficult hot spots on my feet that really made me question if I could actually finish the race, something I'm sure many marathoners have faced on their first marathon, but I did push through the pain, and carried out the last 11 miles.
I ended up running a 5:50 mile pace which I was extremely happy about. I did want to go sub 2:30, which is a 5:40 pace, but by the end of the race, the pace starts to catch up to you and I decided that I would be happy with any strong finish. When I did finish, I was able to see some friends, and my dad who all congratulated me for my efforts, and helped walk despite major cramping in every part of my legs. Altogether, I was so thankful for the support I had, and the great experience of running a Marathon. I look forward to trying more in the future.
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