A Confidence Builder

This morning's 20 miler could not have gone more perfect. I was starting to get anxious and a wee bit nervous for the Eugene Marathon (April 28). I haven't "gone long" since the Little Rock Marathon, which was only March 3, but it feels like a long time ago already. I tried to run 20 last weekend, but my body was clear - absolutely NOT happening! I felt deflated for stopping early and pouty the rest of the week.

This morning, I left my front door at 7:20am to make the 4 mile trip to the security gates of the Illinois Air National Guard base. I was participating in the 24 Hour Run Challenge. The event was simple... our team was to have a runner in motion at all times during a 24 hour period, starting Thursday afternoon. We were competing against TACP (Tactical Air Control Party) units across the world, including those deployed. The team that racked up the most miles and the team that raised the most were declared winners. But really, everyone involved was a winner... the run honored the memory of fallen TACPs and raises funds to support the TACP community and their families. Team Peoria ran in honor of Jacob Frazier, a local who made the ultimate sacrifice. Donations accepted here.

Once I passed through the security gates, I met up with my friend KO who was waiting by the starting table. We quickly fell into a groove and nonstop chatter. We haven't run together in quite some time, so we had a lot of catching up to do. It made the miles go by quickly. Best of all, we held a steady pace under 10 min/miles.

Flight line filled with C-130's
What a beautiful morning! The sun peeked through the clouds in our first loop.
We had nothing but sunshine for the rest of the run!

The course was a 1.25 mile loop around the base. We ran the full flight line and passed by my hubby's office building each time. In total, we ran 2 hours and completed 10 loops for 12.5 miles on base.  It felt good to run for a greater cause today. God Bless Our Troops!

Afterward, I tacked on another 4 miles on my journey home.  These felt a bit harder as I was trying to hold onto the pace we had all morning... ranging from 9:40-10:00 miles. I needed some encouragement... so I texted my cheerleaders. My little girls jumped on their bikes and met me at the end of our street to "run me in" once again. Precious.
TOTAL: 20.55 miles in 3:24 (9:55 pace)

My goal for the Eugene Marathon was/is 4:15... which is a 9:43 pace. I'm still not sure if it's capable... with only 30 days to go. But today's run certainly made me feel stronger and more confident of coming close. All I need is one good day on fresh legs... and some friends by my side!