2014 in Review
I had a number of goals in 2014 some of which I hit some of
which I did not. Overall I am pleased with my 2014 running season, and thankful
for every mile since the end of 2013 we were unsure if I’d be able to continue
distance running.
1. Run a <25:00 5k: This did not happen simply because I did not run many 5ks. In fact I only ran one 5k with my daughter, and walked another one in flare. This is something I need to focus on for 2015 because fast short races mean stronger faster longer distances.
2. Run a <2:00 half marathon. This did not happen but came very close 2:00:56. I am pleased with this had I not started developing sun problems I would have come in <2:00. My next attempt due to the train I got blocked off the course, and my final attempt in November I ended up in 50’s with pouring rain which is difficult on my joints. This goal was not met not due to inability or over striving but due to coarse conditions which is why in 2015 I intend to run more half marathons than ever before allowing me a better chance at finally hitting this goal. Running the <2:00. More half marathons means a greater chance at having the perfect conditions to run well, and thus drive my times in higher mileage courses down overall.
3. Run my first full marathon. This did not happen in 2014, but early 2015. I got nervous due to a number of flares in the fall and decided to skip out fearing I wasn’t prepared although I was more than ready based on how I ran in January.
4. Get back into the triathlon circuit. This did not occur I simply was more focused on a lot of other things including running. I also had family issues, a wedding, and developed a 3rd autoimmune issue.
Overall I am pleased with 2014. I set a 10k PR by 2 whole minutes, and a half marathon PR by 4 minutes! I had great training and ran the most distance races I have ever run. I had far fewer problems than the last 3 years, despite developing a new issue. I learned that the marathon itself wasn’t my issue it’s the standard training, which means my ultimate dream of qualifying for Boston is a possible with proper tweaking of my training so its less intensive on my body. I was given a second chance to keep running and I am thankful for that.
2015 Goals and Priorities
2015 is my year to give back. I
have been giving an unbelievable second chance to continue running. Maybe that
lasts a life time, but as someone with a battle inside their body I also
realise that could be gone tomorrow. This year is my year to celebrate 2nd
chances by giving back. My goals will reflect that and chasing my biggest dream
of the Boston Marathon.
1. <2:00 Half. I will be running a minimum of 5 half marathons this year. My purpose to run a <2:00 half is twofold 1. To solidify and verify a time I have done in training. 2. To pull down my long distance times to prep for the training in 2016 towards a Boston Qualifer.
2. Run a 5k PR. I haven’t run a 5k PR in 3 years. I need to focus this short distance to push my times down. I am not focused on the <25 like I was before but it would be nice and ideal. I simply want to put a new PR in the bag.
3. Run a 10k PR. Again more on preparations towards 2016.
4. Run the best marathon time I can as close to 4 hours as possible. Ultimately running 2 more marathons this year will allow me to fortify this distance on my resume. It will allow me to see what type of time I am running so I know what kind of work is needed to draw those times down significantly to qualify for Boston.
5. Raise 1000 for the Arthritis National Research Foundation during my fall race season. As stated this is my year to give back I want to give the second chance I have been given to another. Research allows for new developments that can change the lives of those in similar situations as my own.
6. Raise Awareness for Arthritis by running. Simply put I need to blog more, post more, and spread the word. I ultimately want to be teamed up with a child with arthritis to run for them this year. I have been given a gift and that gift has the possibility to give a better life to countless other people.
I am tremendously thankful for the 2014 I was given. Despite the few bumps I had like the UCTD diagnosis, and having to have my remicade tweaked it was an amazingly beautiful blessed year. I couldn’t have done this without the support of my medical team, my coaches, my friends, my followers, and my precious family. 2015 is here and its time for me to step up to the plate I have been given and use this blessing to chase my dreams and give others a chance at theirs.
