2014: The year I ran my first and second marathon. While those races basically sum up my running year, there was more to the story. I’m linking up with Miss Zippy and sharing some of my running highlights from 2014.
Best race experience? I’m giving two answers here. First up, the NYC Marathon. It was an incredible, once in a lifetime (but hopefully more) experience. Being able to run through the best city in the world and feel the support from the crowds made the race unforgettable. I’ve never worked harder to finish a race and it was humbling. However, my personal experience was not the best due to the weather (just being honest). Also, as anyone who has run this race knows, it’s expensive, you have to get to the start very early and it takes time to exit the park.
For that reason, the Miami Beach 1/2 Marathon in March was my favorite “race logistics” experience. It’s a smaller race and I spent only $80 for my entry fee (compared to the almost $300 for NYC). I didn’t need to get to the start line more than 10 minutes early and the start and finish were a block away from each other. I also think it makes a difference when you can sleep in your own bed the night before a race.
Miami Beach Half Marathon- March 2014
Best run? Hands down my 12 miler during NYC training. It wasn’t anything extra special but I remember the weather had just turned in Florida so it was in the 60’s. No aches or pains and I got to run on Bayshore, my favorite course in the world.
Best new piece of gear? My fuel belt (blue thing under my bib). I got it right before my first marathon and with pockets in the front and back, it’s perfect for holding food, my phone, money, anything.
Also, my Road I.D. I haven’t taken it off since I got it in September.
Best piece of running advice you received? Rest and recovery is just as important as actually running. It’s an integral part of any training plan. (Paraphrased words from many running bloggers :))
Also, my favorite running quote (has been for many years)
Source
Most inspirational runner? Tina from Fuel Your Future With Tina. She’s an elite athlete with an incredibly healthy, balanced perspective on running and life. I’ve learned a lot from her posts this year.
If you could sum up your year in a couple of words, what would they be? Challenging but extremely fulfilling.
2015 you have a lot to live up to!
Woohoo! You had a stellar year your should be SOOO proud of! You are one of the runners to really INSPIRE me and kick me to really follow through with my goal of STARTING! I can’t wait to see what you do next year and for you to keep inspiring me! XOXOXOXOXO
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine recently posted…When Life Gets Interesting
That’s so sweet of you! Thanks :) It’s such a journey and every year is different. It’s cool to keep a record now so I can go back and fully remember.
That is such a great quote! Running is such a wonderful sport, hobby, passion – I’m taking a bit of a break after my half marathon and 10k this year, but I hope to come back in 2015 stronger and more passionate than ever!
Georgie Morley recently posted…Chai Gingerbread Smoothie
It’s my favorite quote and it can apply to so many things. I needed a break last year in order to come back mentally and physically stronger. It goes in phases, I guess!
That quote is my absolute favorite. It is what I base all of my training around. You had a pretty great year of running if you ask me :)
pickyrunner recently posted…Catch you later.
Completely agree. I’ve learned to do the same :)
Congrats! Also that fuel belt looks helpful and not like the one I have that is a bit bulkier-what brand is it?
Lauren recently posted…5 Last-Minute Holiday Hosting Must Haves
Thanks! I wish I could tell you the brand…my mom got it at a craft fair and doesn’t know the name of the company. So many people have asked me about it! I’ll let you know if I ever find out.
Love what you said about rest and recovery being just as important…. and the quote about not out running your love of running! After my half marathon this year, I’ve been prioritizing other forms of training. Now, I just run because I want to, not because I have to (according to a plan). I might train for another race some day, but for now I’m happy with my variety. Looking forward to seeing what 2015 brings you!
Emily @ Sweets and Beets recently posted…What Christmas Means to Me
Love what you said about rest and recovery being just as important…. and the quote about not out running your love of running! After my half marathon this year, I’ve been prioritizing other forms of training. Now, I just run because I want to, not because I have to (according to a plan). I might train for another race some day, but for now I’m happy with my variety. Looking forward to seeing what 2015 brings you!
Emily @ Sweets and Beets recently posted…What Christmas Means to Me
That is exactly why people should run…because we look forward to it and willingly want to! Not always according to a plan. I’m happy to add more variety into my workout routine too!
That fuel belt is super cute. If you hadn’t pointed it out, I would’ve just assumed it was part of your tank. Rest and recovery is so important – I always want to push myself even if I’m injured…it’s important to remember to take time to heal when needed.
Rebecca @ MyEagerFeet recently posted…Run Less Run Faster: Week Seven
I wish I had one in black or gray so it would match more shirts. Yes, it’s easy to get caught up in the “push through pain” mindset because we think that’s what we should be doing.
Ahh…nothing like that first cooler run of the fall! You had lots of great accomplishments this year. And how could NYC Marathon not be at the top?! Congrats and thanks for linking in.
misszippy recently posted…Staying the course isn’t always easy
Thank you! And thanks for the link-up!
Sounds like you had a great year of running! I love that medal from the Miami 1/2… and oh my, that weather for NYC Marathon was no joke! :)
Lora @ Crazy Running Girl recently posted…Back home + my year in running
The medal is a beer opener :P I guess it makes sense for a Michelob Ultra race. Yes that weather was insane!