The day I raced eight miles with no training

Hi everyone!

I survived running 8 miles with no training! Would I do it again? Maybe. Let me start from the beginning. I apologize for the iPhone photos, but whatever.

First off, remember my new buddy Kali that I, ironically, met Thursday night? It was so nice meeting her because she was signed up to do the last leg (8 miles) of the Akron Marathon too. As soon as I arrived at the race, we found each other I stayed by her side the whole morning. Thankfully, she knew where to go and what to do. Since this was so last minute, I had no clue.

Bloggers Julie, Becca,me, and Kali hanging out before the start.

Soon, Kali and I were off to watch some runners and find our starting point. We had a very, very long time to wait. The race started at 7 am and we started around mile 18. It was freezing but perfect racing weather. I wish I brought sweat pants.

Once we got to mile 18 to wait, we hung out and were able to watch the male lead run by! He was so ultra-focused. Amazing.

I also saw this guy run by… wow.

The race was fun, but I waited a very long time. I didn’t actually start my leg until around 11 am when the crowd’s started to thin out. It was a difficult feeling. However, I was able to make it through. I did not run the whole time – definitely on and off because I did not want to get injured having no training. I finished in about 1:30 which was adequate, considering the circumstances.

The coolest part was running through Canal Park Stadium and receiving not one, but 5 medals total, for my teammates.

After the race, my feet hurt so bad. If I’m going to start running again, I’m going to need new shoes. It took everything in me to walk to the car! We were able to snag some yummy race food including free beer at the end. They were trying to get rid of it so my friend and I took home 5 cans each.

I enjoyed it later while chilling with a friend.

Later that night, my dad texted me (yes, he texts – it’s strange!) that he was at the Cleveland Indian’s game and to watch for him. Um, he was front and center most of the game! See him in the second row with a red shirt? So cool!

Yesterday and today, I was super sore, but not too bad considering the circumstances. I forced myself to go to Bikram which was ah-mazing. It hurt so good.

Now time to paint my nails and get ready for the week. Have a wonderful night!

Julie

Tagged as: akron, Akron Marathon, bloggers, canal park, cleveland indians, Ohio