I’ve been running strong and I’m just about to reach that mile 22 marker… I glance at my watch and see that I am exactly where I need to be with only 4 miles to go. I’ve stuck to my race plan and it has brought me to the point where I think “I’ve got this. All the hard work. All the training and time I put in to get me here… I’ve got this.” That thought gives me chills.
I’ve had this vision pop into my mind occasionally towards the end of my training runs. I’m usually about 1-2 miles away from the end of my training run and I envision looking down at my watch and doing the math for the last 4 miles… this thought runs through my mind and I’m instantly overcome with chills of what that moment will feel like. I’m happy, excited, relived, and overwhelmed all at the same time.
It’s happened in my mind already a few times over the training cycle. I try to block out the “other” feeling, the opposite of the above feeling. I’ve done my best to try to overcome the doubt by sticking to my training plan and if I hit an obstacle, get back after it the following day. It’s Phoenix Marathon race week and only time will tell if that moment happens this weekend.
My Last Marathon
(not my last, LAST… but my previous. Don’t freak out.)
It’s been over 3 months since my last marathon — the NYC Marathon. I was running with Team ASICS and recording my journey and trying to share “what a marathon feels like.” The video did a soft launch and I’m happy to share it with you below. I’ll most likely be doing more with all the footage that was recorded, but here is the edited version that ASICS put together.
Those chills that I mention above happen, but in a different way. I’m overcome with trying to record how the two special women in my life (wifey and the first lady) have supported my journey, trying not cry, knowing it’s okay to cry, but also having to run 2 more miles. Hope you enjoy it.
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Later this week I’ll be sharing my race goals, running playlists, more details about ALL the madness that is going to happen. There is a preview of the fun stuff lined up below.
Social Media Events — click here for details.
Thanks for all the support along the way. I’m looking forward to that starting line… and slightly terrified as well, but that’s normal.
Do you envision finish line glory while training?
When I was training for my first full marathon, I did envision myself finishing the 26.2 miles. I had no doubt in my mind that I would accomplish it, and making it a reality was surreal.
I just got chills too (and cried)! I ran it in 2011 and 2013 (was supposed to run 2013 but Sandy had other plans) and spectated last year. Both times cried crossing the finish. I’m running it again this November. You have given me the bug in my bonnet now…I want to video the experience too. I do have a little clip of me screaming “best day ever!” as i ran across the VZ. I live in Staten Island. The VZ Bridge is as synonymous with my home as anything. I spent countless training runs along the beach right at the bridge. AHHHH!!!! November can’t come soon enough. =) Thanks for sharing Pavey.
Brian, this video is AWESOME! I loved every minute of it. It really got me excited to think about my next marathon and I loved the emotion you poured into it. Yay for your wife and daughter :). Thanks for being such a great ambassador for our sport for all the runners out there. I can’t believe how many times our paths have crossed at races and events and we still haven’t met. We have to change that. Good luck this weekend. I’ll be cheering for you! xo
Okay, just cried watching this video. I dedicate my runs to my son and he always helps get me through the tough parts. I keep going because I know I’m making him proud!
I have my name in the NYC lottery, this year, so I’m hoping it’ll be my first marathon. Your video gets me seriously pumped for NYC AND Phoenix this weekend!!
You’re going to CRUSH it!!
yes.
and I dont mean in running.
<3
I definitely think about the finish line..but then I get nervous and get a stitch in my side. :P
I know this is an old post and I am just now commenting- but dang it Brian- you made me cry!!! You are the best! This was beautiful! I bawled when you dedicated the last two miles to your wife and daughter.