8th time is a charm—at least that’s what I’m thinking going into this weekend’s San Francisco Marathon. This will be the 8th time I run the San Francisco Marathon (counting my 52.4 in 2014 as 2) and I’m looking forward to it after a 2-year hiatus.
In 2017, I was registered for the 52.4 again (you run the 26.2 twice), but had to DNS because I hurt my back a few weeks prior to race day. This year I’m feeling healthy and ready to tackle my local race with 27,000 friends (5k, 1st half, 2nd half, and full).
Goals?
To finish with a smile on my face. To finish is always a great goal to have. This race has been a lot of things for me in the past: I’ve finished everywhere between 3:51 (2013) and 5:09 (2008). I’ve run this race with through injuries and with PR aspirations—I know that I’ll be able to finish the 26.2 miles, but to be able to cross that line with a smile on my face is the real goal.
Truth!
Ok, I would love to get back to the 4-hour range of the marathon, give or take 10 minutes. A “take” would be close to a course PR for me, so the +10 on the other side is more realistic. I’ll be looking to keep a 9-minute pace throughout, allowing the hills to be on the plus side. 3:55-4:10 is realistic if things go as planned.
Great Company
As per usual, I’ll be running with THEE @carleemcdot. She is way faster than me, so she’ll be slowing down her pace to keep this guy company. I’ve run RnR San Diego with her on several occasions—this year it will be nice change to run together in my neck of the woods.
See you out there!
