Where Amy Runs

With the outdoors as our refuge during COVID, the arrival of fall and the chill in the air that accompanies it brought an anxious, unsettled energy. Plus, we had an incredibly divisive presidential election coming up. I entered this race with trepidation...wanting to be present, yet a little scared, but mostly wanting to live and take advantage of this opportunity...because who knew what tomorrow would bring? I warmed up in a mask, then took it off just as I was about to start (our start times were staggered and runners naturally spread out as the race progresses).  I played "tag" with some folks over the course of the first 8 miles as we settled into our respective rhythms. But after those first 8 miles, I found myself completely alone for the remainder of the race. I used to thrive on crowds and competition, but at this moment I was quite alright running solo. COVID had trained me in embracing solitude!  The last half marathon I ran ( the SoNo Half ), was my fastest time ev...

In Winter 2019-20, I was privileged enough to run the Boston Buildup series with an incredibly talented group of runners. After a successful first postpartum race , I wanted to continue the momentum and brave the elements. Starting with a 10k in Rowayton, the Boston Buildup Series works its way up by 5k each race, with the grand finale being a 25k in hilly Silvermine. I ended up winning the series for my age group and placing 32nd overall out of 364 speedy ladies and gents. Sweaty and happy post-race in my backyard with my baby.   One race after the other, I'd surprise myself with my strength. I'd think, this PR is so nice to achieve--relish the moment, be grateful, and don't expect it again . (By the way, I still think that way.) Yet somehow, the PR's kept coming. I believe that I became stronger after giving birth. A useful mantra for me was--if I can go through back labor without any drugs, I can push through to the finish of this race! No comparison. No questio...