Feels Like Progress...

We had another race with my running group last weekend. My Mom stopped resisting the urge and joined the group (which is funny as I only knew about the group because of her participation in previous years). The group always asks how fast you think you will run the race in order to stagger faster and slower runners so that the group finishes roughly at the same time. I got really confident at check in and blurted out "9:15 per mile." As soon as I said it I wished I could take it back, but the volunteer had already written my start time on my bib and sent me to the starting line. They release the waves one by one, and as the runners waiting to start dwindled, I was noticing how fit and elite the runners with me looked. Oh boy, I'm in trouble. Everyone will soon find out I should have started at 00:00 instead of trying to wait like I was a skilled runner. Come my time, I tried my best to act confident and calm at the starting line, and away I ran. "Keep it cool, look strong." Halfway around, I grab the cup of water offered and try to drink it gracefully while keeping my pace (the water spills all over your face and shirt and you go bouncing along, I should know that hydration won't be a pretty sight). As soon as I see the finish line I start to sprint, anything to keep my time lower than the expected embarrassing results. Soon, they will know I over estimated my pace and should have started earlier. The clock at the finish line was broken, so for DAYS I waited for the results to be posted online. Finally, they were posted on Wednesday...36mins!!! I ran four miles in 36mins, which means I had a 9min mile pace and was NOT a liar!!! This is a new personal best for me at that distance.

Sprinting to the finish...