I’ve been slowly shaping my race calendar for these upcoming months, figuring out which I want to do. I think this year, more than ever, I’m truly excited about racing. I’ve always felt somewhat nervous and intimidated toeing the start line, but with almost two dozen races under my belt, I feel like I’m really getting the hang of it. Races are such a different experience than just going out for a run, so there’s a learning curve at figuring out what works for you as a runner. My biggest hurdle has been learning not to start out too fast, which has been true for my running in general.
Enough rambling, let’s talk races!
March 16 - Spectrum Health Irish Jig
This is the 30th running of the Irish Jig and it’s where I set my 5k PR in 2011. I’m not really sure quite what it is about this race, but it has become one of my favorites! The weather is incredibly unpredictable – I’ve run in everything from 20 degrees and snow to, I want to say, near 60 degrees and sun! It’s a nice course that winds through a lovely neighborhood. It’s separated into men’s and women’s races, and there’s something really unique about running will all women.
April 21 - Lansing Half Marathon
This is the second year they’ve put on the Lansing Half Marathon (there’s also a 5k and a full marathon). This one, I can’t decide if it’s a really great idea or a really dumb one. It’s three weeks before the River Bank Run and I have a 13 mile training run scheduled that weekend anyhow – so I figured, why not get a medal for it? In all seriousness, though, I think this will give me a good idea of where I stand for the 25k. Plus, I think it will be fun to run through Michigan’s capital! Maybe I can have some fond memories of my fifth grade field trip to the Capitol.
May 11 - River Bank Run 25k
The River Bank Run should come as no surprise. After all, I’ve been training for several weeks already! This is definitely the big goal for the spring, with my sights set high on crushing it with a PR. A big PR. I’m really excited to be fundraising for my alma mater. My fundraising efforts will go to the Laker for a Lifetime fund to support students various needs including financial assistance (scholarships), educational opportunities (internships), and skill development (counseling services). I had originally set a goal of $500, but I recently decided that I would love to raise $2,007 since I graduated in 2007! If you feel so inclined to support me, that would be so greatly appreciated; you can donate on my fundraising page! Every little bit helps.
So, those are my big three spring races for 2013! I’m really pumped about this year and thing that my running – and racing – will go to a whole new level. I can’t wait!
Running friends, what races are you pumped for over these next couple months? West Michigan friends, will I see any of you at these awesome events?
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
I totally forgot about the Irish Jig – I’ve never run it, maybe this is the year. I’ve also never run the Lansing Half Marathon. I’m not sure my mileage will be up high enough for that one.
Another good, pre-RBR race is the Strider’s Classic 10 mile. It’s in April (don’t know the day) but a fun, relaxed run. No medals though.
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You should to the Jig!! It’s fun! I did look at Striders, but it’s the same weekend as Lansing. Maybe next year!!
I’m seriously thinking about doing the Jig. I would have to start my walk/run program (again!) within the next couple days to get it done. And I would still probably have to walk part of it….but I see you just have to finish under 45 mins. I did an arthritis walk under 45 last year, so no excuses right??? I’m so good at finding motivation but then finding a million reasons why I can’t do it. arg!
You should do it!!!
You’ve got this!
That look like great races!
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