Life in Iowa

I ran the Fargo Half Marathon on Saturday. Despite some pre-race jitters, I knew I would do well since I had stuck with my training plan through and through (well, for the most part).

Running with Anna - Coach Timm would be very proud!

My plan was to not start out too fast as most people do and I promised myself I would listen to my body the entire time and try to push myself while trying to remain relaxed.  My goal pace was to be around 8:20 for the whole run.

I stole these pictures from my very own professional photographer for the day - thanks Laura!

I surprised myself at mile 5 to see that I was running at a sub 8-minute pace, and continued to do so until mile 8! I thought I should slow down, but after a quick check-in with my body I realized I felt fine - awesome! I bwas beginning to get excited about cushing my goal time of 1:50 - something I really didn't think possible.

I finished the race in 1:45:23 (8 minute pace!!!). I was 46th in my age group (out of 646) and the 123rd female to cross the finish line (3242 total).

 
 I crushed my half marathon PR by about 20 minutes! Doesn't it feel good when you surprise yourself in instances like this? Hard to believe that working out and eating well really does pay off, no?! I hope this runners hight that I am on right now lasts throughout the summer.

We had a full day after the half was over - more to come on that later!