Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Looking to 2009

Saturday's outdoor run got me going. I've gotten in two more outdoor 4-mile runs since then. Granted, the temps have been in the high 30s, low 40s. Today, we're back into the 20s and I'm working up the courage to finish off 2008 well and go for one more run.

Speaking of 2008, I ran a whopping total of four races. I only PR'd one, but it was a whopping 35 minute improvement on my marathon PR. I'm pretty proud of that.

So, what does 2009 hold? Well, I've signed up for the Indianapolis Mini-Marathon once again and training officially begins today. I'm going to use the Hanson's Half-Marathon plan as their marathon plan worked really well for me. To make it more appealing, I don't do any distances farther than 8 miles for another 6 weeks. I know I can do 8 on a treadmill if I have to and hopefully by February, the temperatures will begin to improve a little (yes, I realize as I write this that by making that comment, we will be in the deep-freeze long into March).

Steve is signed up for the mini as well and we just printed off a run/walk plan for him that starts in another week. This year it will be quite the family affair as Steve's sister (a two-time veteran of the mini) and her husband (a rookie) will participate, too.

This summer, I want to try my hand at a triathlon. There is a sprint-tri July 13 put on by the fitness center I go to so I have that as my goal.

The next weekend Steve and I are hoping to ride in the Ride Across INdidana (RAIN). It is a 160-mile ride and you have 14 hours to complete it - basically sun up to sun down. Although my butt is hurting already, I'm looking forward to the challenge. Needless to say, there won't be a long run that weekend!

Labor Day, I'm hoping to be feeling good (based on my track record, it probably won't happen) and break my PR in the Blueberry Festival Blueberry Stomp 15K.

As for a marathon, I'm thinking it will be Grand Rapids once again. It was a great race and one I can do fairly cheaply. But, at the same time, I would like to do something new and maybe I'll finally go to San Antonio and run the Rock-n-Roll Marathon there. I have some time to think about.

So there are my thoughts on running in 2009.

As 2008 slips away (too fast!) and we hope for a better 2009, I just want to thank you all for reading my blog and your friendship and encouragement this past year. Here's wishing you and your family and wonderful and blessed 2009!

3 comments:

Kelly said...

Best of luck to you and your family with your racing. Sounds like 2009 will be fun!

Eric said...

Since you have your goals in writing there is no turning back now. Good Luck!

Eric T.

Mom on the Run said...

Thanks Eric and Kelly.