Memories and Goals to DO IT AGAIN
It’s Monday, it’s the 3rd Monday in April, which means it’s Boston Monday. One year ago, at this very moment, I was on my way from Hopkinton, Mass. to Boston, on foot. One year ago, I was shocked by what was called the early “downhill miles” had, what I call, uphills (WHAT?). One year ago, yes, I made it! I made it to Wellesley, and the Wellesley ladies did not disappoint. In my opinion, the Wellesley area is also the prettiest part of the Boston course. I even made it to Heartbreak hill, and I conquered it. As I made it to the top, I was surprised and greeted by my hubby who was snapping photos. This gave me just the boost I needed. Yes, the boost faded too, but I ran, and I ran, and I completed the 2010 Boston marathon – time – 4:08.
Upon early reflection of Boston, I was totally satisfied. I was content. I had completed a HUGE goal in my boring life. A goal that I worked ever so diligently toward, for 4 years, was now complete. I was so content that I chose not to return in 2011, even though I could have registered again.
Sometime in the fall/winter of 2010, just a few months after my debut at the 2010 Boston Marathon, a new Boston goal was born. No, I did not want to return to Boston in 2011. I had NO desire to go again without a new qualifying run. The new goal is to BQ on a flat or rolling hills course. My first attempt was at the Snickers 2011 – I did NOT succeed – Boston does not come easy for me my friends.(missed by 1 min) This is a goal that I would like to achieve, but I am HAPPY if I have one, and only one, Boston 26.2. However, on Sunday, as I was reading and thinking about Boston, suddenly, out of the blue, a burning desire to run Boston ONE MORE TIME came over me. The burn is not as intense as the first time around, but the heat is on. The allure of Boston is unique. IMO - it's not about a beautiful or even a pretty course, it's not about a fast course, it's not about a flat course for sure, it's not about a small race (which I prefer). Boston is about the drive to get there, the journey one takes to achieve the goal, and the history of the race. Will the burn to BQ be like the original desire to get to Boston? I doubt it, but it is a goal.
I now feel it is in my future to return to Boston one more time.
Will I be able to do it ???, only time will tell, but…..
I feel like I have one more BQ in me.
I need 1 more pic coming down the back side of Heartbreak Hill with a smile on my face.
and another like this
Yes, I'm still content with Boston 2010, but I like a goal ahead of me.
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18 comments:
You CAN do it, I know! But there's only one first!! You're an amazing runner and a happy one. I'm constantly encouraged by your trials and successes. Thanks for posting these cause they help others know they are normal in what they encounter, good and bad. You and Audrey should qualify for next years Boston! Good luck to you both...
I believe you have another in you too! Such fun memories. I can totally relate.
I think all of us who choose to sit out this year have that feeling of wanting to be back as the hoopla of Boston approached (I knew it'd happen, but didn't expect it to be so strong). I believe you can achieve whatever you want to - you have such drive and determination! You'll get there again!!
Looking forward to following you as you REACH that goal!!
Go get it.
Are there any Trail Boston's???!!! :-) If you want it, get after it! Love the greenery on the blog margins, btw. Have a fantastic week!
What a great post and yes, I know you have it in you!
I'll most likely be there next year. So qualify so we could have a big party!
See you in Boston in 2012. Deal? Deal.
Of course you can do it. I know it for sure! I have seen you prepare and put everything you have into it. Go for it!
I understand why you took a year off.
But you know you can get back if you want it (at least qualifying).
Go get it so I can meet you next year!!!!
I didn't know how much I wanted to go back and have another shot at that course until the excitement of yesterday! You're so right, not the beauty, not the course just the WHOLE experience of what is BOSTON!!!! You totally have it in you. You snatch it up!
You can do it! I love runners, some of the most motivated people that I have ever met. Go get it Ginny!
I think a lot of us have that desire. It is a bit of a reach for me but maybe some day. Good luck!
I think you CAN do it again. It certainly is obtainable... a lot of work but obtainable! It's a wonderful goal.
I love this post - thanks for writing it so well and thoughtfully! I know you'll get another Boston - you can totally do it!!
Can't believe I didn't find your blog sooner. We are much alike after reading your profile.
Thanks for visiting my blog and the tips you gave me. I will keep them in mind next Monday.
Added you to my Google reader so expect to see more of me here :)
You can totally do this again - if you want to. Right now I feel like I've been there, done that - but I know I might feel left out next year. However, I'm going to run London which is a HUGE deal over here so I'm hoping that helps me deal with it... I just don't know whether I have a 3:35 (qualifying time minus 10 minutes) in me...
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