Yesterday I ran 10 miles, my longest run (so far) for 2019. Spring fever is very much in the air, with sunny skies and cotton ball clouds, snow still on the ground but dissipating…As with most long runs, my mind drifts to various tangents, and during yesterday’s run I mused about my 2019 running goals.
But before I explore this year’s running aspirations, I want to quickly revisit 2018, an amazing running year.
On my 2018 Goal List, I checked off “Run a Half Marathon” and “Run a Marathon.” Both races, the Dream Catcher Half and Rim Rock Marathon, took place in March and November, in Grand Junction, CO. This was fitting, as “Junction” is where I truly fell in love with running (see post Run Run Run). A college tennis player, running was a new outlet for me. I became a running fixture around campus, making loops along 12th, North, 7th, and Orchard. If you saw a girl running those streets circa 2014-15 in a red jacket and black sweats, long ponytail flying back, there is a damn good chance that was me. 🙂
In June 2018 I also ran my first trail and Leadville Series race, the Leadville Heavy Half. Being a mountain girl and a history geek, the scenery and mining history of the area made this race very special. In August 2017 my Dad and I drove up and over Mosquito Pass into Leadville; it was fun to experience the same place, but this time via my own two feet.
In October, my Grand Junction buddies Jamie, Yoli, Cate and Trish, and I ran the Hot Chocolate 15k/ 5k in Denver. It was a cold morning, but once up and running (couldn’t resist the pun), the brisk temps weren’t an issue. Out of all the 2018 races, this 5k race I performed the best: 10th place overall for females, and 1st place in my age division! But best of all was the experience of running with my friends, and the hot chocolate and snacks post race. In addition to these races, I ran several smaller, community based 5ks, the Hogback Hustle and the KC Gobble Wobble.
2019…
So what’s in store for 2019? I’ll admit I have not registered for any races yet. Since running Rim Rock back in November, I’ve backed off running some, giving my body and mind a well deserved rest. This year I’m averaging about 15-20 miles a week, in contrast to the 30ish miles a week during my marathon training. Now with spring approaching, I’m starting to ramp up the mileage and consistency.
As for running goals, I know I want to run more half and full marathons. I’m considering the Palisade Marathon in May, a road race which winds through Colorado’s wine country, right by Grand Junction. I certainly want to run trail races as well, dirt terrain being so much more forgiving on the body, and I am considering Desert Rats Trail Series in Fruita, and/or Grand Mesa Ultras in July. So many races, so little time…
Another running goal: to run on the beach in San Diego. I’ll be visiting California twice this year, so there’s a good chance of fulfilling that. I’ve run in San Diego before, which is sea level, so you have full oxygen but the summer humidity alone presents a new challenge. Add beach sand and I’ll have a completely different running experience, engaging all those micro muscles…
Regardless, I know I’ll have new running experiences this year, no matter the race, terrain, or place. As long as I’m running, I’m a happy girl. A runner’s got to run!
~LMC
