I Actually Did It!

After much deliberation (mostly with myself), I decided to put my name in the hat for the Wasatch 100 lottery. Whether that was ill-advised or not is yet to be determined, but I did it nonetheless. I’ve also registered for a few other ultras prior to that to help me prepare. In reality though, my chances of getting in are really slim. I do have a back-up 100 miler planned if I don’t make the list, though.

Through this process I’ve found one thing that’s been a real key motivator for me: Registering for races. I’ve had some races plotted out in my mind the last few months, but it hasn’t been until recently, when I actually registered, that I’ve seen myself being highly motivated again. Maybe it’s just knowing that I’ve committed myself and my money to it? Whatever it is, I like it!

So, come February 6th I’ll know if I’m in or not. I’m not getting my hopes up, but it would definitely push me to work extra hard! As for now though, I’m on a 12 week schedule until my first 50 miler. Only averaging around 35 or 40 miles a week right now (mostly due to my dislike of the cold), but hoping to bump that up just a bit over the next few weeks as the days start growing a bit longer and (hopefully) warmer.

2010

As each New Year rolls around it seems like resolutions are on everyone’s mind. With it comes a resolve to improve something in one’s life, or to change something completely. In the past I’ve always been the type to attempt changing something in my life; it hasn’t necessarily worked out in my favor for the most part. This year however, I’ve made a few goals to improve upon; things I feel are easily measured, yet still difficult for me to obtain.

I’m relatively new to running still. I’ve only been logging miles for about 9 months now. In reality, going from nothing to a marathon in 6 months or so is a very credible feat. Since I’m pretty extreme though, I tend to measure my success against those who are far more experienced than I; against those who have been running their whole lives. So when I make a goal of X number of races for the year, I tend to compare myself to those who do two or three times as many races in a year. I know it’s unfair to myself, but I really can’t help it. It’s just the way I work! So when I replay things in my head, it all sounds like an excuse. I feel like I’m using my lack of experience as an excuse.

Finding a balance is difficult for me. I have to listen to my body, but I also have to listen to my heart. It’s never ending! So taking both things into account, I’ve decided on 3 very measurable goals for the year.

1. Log 2,500 miles for the year

2. Participate in at least 8 races

3. Finish a 100 miler

Pretty lofty goals for a relative newcomer, I know. To me though, it seems like I’m not pushing myself hard enough. With the objective of living to see 2011 (and not dropping dead on the trail) my head is telling me that these numbers are the balance I’m trying to achieve. With that said, it’s off to do some more running!