This year has been unlike any other in my life as a runner. So many firsts. So many miles! New friends. Welcome to the year in review.
Shiny New PRs
I think I'll remember this year best as both the year that Utah felt like home, and the year that I sub-4'ed a marathon. Running had a lot to do with the former, and everything to do with the latter. Here's how it all went down.
PR #1: Salt Lake Half-Marathon, April 19, 1:53:03.
This PR was hard-won. The race itself is more memorable as the race I joined a training group for, and the race through which I made some great friends here in Utah. I smiled the entire day after this race.
PR #2: Utah Valley Half, June 14, 1:48:04
This PR was everything you could ever ask for in a race. I got to spend time with a friend from STL, it was a gorgeous day and a gorgeous course, I felt great, and I PR'ed. It was fun to come barreling down the canyon, turn, then apply a full helping of bad assery heading into town and toward the finish line, where my running partner in crime was waiting for me, having just handed in a PR of her own.
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| Part of the course |
PR #3: Top of Utah Marathon, September 20, 3:56:13.
Somehow, unimaginably, I sub-4'ed a marathon. Don't get me wrong, I trained more than I'd ever trained before. It's all in the math. But even now, I can hardly believe it. I did it! I also got to spend time with a friend, and see my boys a few times during the last few, crazy tired miles.
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| At Mile 19 |
PR #4: Mileage
Here it is: I ran 1200 miles in 2014. This is a PR for me by 370 miles. And I loved it.
Rave Runs
Don't get me wrong. I love running in Utah. I feel so lucky to get to watch the sun back light the mountains so many mornings, then begin to rise in every color God created. But this was a year of travel, and that travel gave me some new running spots worth a shout-out. I was all over the place this year, so if I leave one out, please tell me in the comments!
Rave Run #1: The Monon Trail in Indy
While in Indy for a wedding reception, I hit a local trail for a 13-miler. It was one of the best running paths I've ever been on. So well maintained, with excellent signage, shade, water, attractions. Plus it was a gorgeous day.
Rave Run #2: The River Walk Trail in San Antonio
Sadly I lack pictures. I hopped on the trail downtown at my hotel (work travel), and followed it several miles south and back.
Rave Run #3: St. Augustine
Yeah, it was July in Florida and I was sweating my ass off, but who in the world cares when you're running here? Gorgeous.
Rave Run #4: Provo Canyon
I really cannot convey just how beautiful the Utah Valley course is.
Products Discovered
- The Garmin Forerunner 220. It's just as good as the reviews say. I've loved it every step of the way since April.
- SmartWool Pattern Reversible Headband (available here). I was skeptical, and I was wrong to be. My other ear warmer is a much thinner material, and when the temps really dropped, wasn't warm enough. But hats often don't satisfy either. This is a great in-between, as a warmer yet breathable material.
- Salted Caramel Gu. You're welcome.
Other Highlights
- It's not running related, but the biggest part of our home renovation is over. It was a difficult process to live with and through, and we're still working on smaller projects. Watch for another post on this.
- Also not running related, my parents will be living in Utah for half the year (warm months).
- My husband and kids are healthy and everyone is doing well.
- I love my job, and had some important accomplishments there this year.
Goals for 2015:
At this point, I have two:
- Lose about 10 lbs. My doctor says I'm a healthy weight, and my clothes all fit just fine, but I'd like to see a lower number on the scale.
- PR the Utah Valley half in June. Last year I bought the 1:45 training plan and adjusted the paces to be a bit slower, and I got a 1:48. I think after that year, I'm ready to really take on the 1:45 plan.
Beyond those, I'm not sure. I'm still considering whether to do a full marathon in 2015, and while I'm sure I'll do another half (at least), I haven't decided on one yet.
There you have it--my year in review. It's been quite a year! Happy New Year, runners!!
