Atlanta Triathlon TEAM

For me Zooma was to be the last race in my 2009 season and my first half marathon.  I’ve done a number of 70.3 triathlons but never the run distance alone.  My excitement for the race was accompanied by a bit of anxiety that comes with anything new. 

In 2008 I ran the 5K and although it was a fun race the weather didn’t play nice.  2008 gave us bitter cold and constant winds.  This year it the weather couldn’t have been better, cool but sunny and calm winds. 

My goal for the race was under 2 hours.  I started out slow and steady, trying to find a comfortably hard pace.  Unfortunately this course is wicked hilly and after the first 4 miles I just wanted to sit down.  One voice in my head said “I can’t do this up and down for 13.1 miles” but with each passing mile it was quieted by another voice, the one that said I CAN.  After rounding Turner stadium and heading back I was feeling ok.  That feeling faltered for a bit until I was passed by the 2 hour pace group. Until that point I didn’t know they were behind me.  I knew if I could keep them in my sights I would make my goal.  I had to take a few quick walk breaks on the final hills but just kept pushing.  When I reached the last mile I looked at my watch and knew I would have to dig deep and push hard.  I picked up my speed, ignored the pain and really started running to the finish.  I rounded the corner to the finish and gave it every last ounce in me to come in with a final time of 1:58:34.  I knew, without a doubt, I had done my best and I was thrilled.  Now starts the inevitable question, “How do I get faster?”