December 3rd began the first week of training for the More Half-Marathon in NYC. 18 weeks until the big race. The training regiment starts out fairly easy - 2 to 3 miles on Tuesday and Thursday with a larger run on the weekend. On Saturday, December 10th we were to complete four miles. But being the overachievers we are we completed our standard 5.53 mile loop around Chambersburg.
Six of us were brave enough to run in the cold, icy weather. Lisa, myself, Mom (Kathy), Ginger, Danielle, and Donna T. To compete in the More marathon you must be female and over 40, but if you are under 40, like me, you can partner with a woman over 40 to split the distance. Last year I convinced 5 other women to complete the race with me. We had such an AWESOME time we recruited more women for this year's race. We do not have an official count yet, but I think we will double our numbers.
The race not only provides one a goal to reach, but also allows one to get in shape with the support of other women. I am so proud of the older women in our group. I only hope that when I'm in my 50's I have motivation and drive to complete a half-marathon. My mother is my inspiration. She actually runs everyday and is right on my heals when we are out jogging. In fact she finished only one minute behind me in this year's Turkey Trot. It serves as motivation for me to train harder.
As you can see from the photo to the right it was a bit icy our first week of training, but that did not stop us. We ran on the street instead of the sidewalks due to the ice. It was dangerous at times because of cars and those slippery spots. Everyone did a wonderful job. Myself, Lisa and Ginger finished in a little over an hour, while Mom and Danielle finished about 10 minutes after us - Danielle slipped and bumped her knee - what a trooper! Donna T finished out the crew in about 1 hour and 20 minutes. A job well done for all.
The week of December 9th we will continue the same training schedule during the week, but with a 5 mile trek on Saturday. We will be completing the same route as last week, hopefully the weather will be a bit more cooperative.
