I ran what I could. My first mile was within my average mile pace at about 10:20 then I slowed down after that. I ran as much as I could but once I was through the lower portion and was going up the mountain I slowed down to a power walk pace. Those 4 miles middle mikes that took me up, up, up were grueling! I wonder if I could have pushed myself faster, running more frequently up the mountain. This was a fantastic challenge that has pushed me further towards my goal.
I love the feeling of accomplishment a race provides. Sure, I didn't win but I did it! I pushed myself to not only complete my first 10K but to also complete it on a challenging course!
My race time was 1:18:30. Not bad! This is a 12:39 mile pace. I know my first mile was an average time. I ran it in just over 10 minutes and my last mile was done in 8-9 minutes. The middle 4 were all 12-13 minute miles. Next year I will do this race again and will try to do it in 1 hour no more than 1:10. I know I can do it if I keep running and keep challenging my body with inclines between now and then.
Today my legs are SORE! I can barely walk my thighs hurt so badly! Is it weird that I love the feeling? It means I did something out of my comfort zone. I pushed myself out of the normal and accomplished something difficult and rewarding.
