Courage to Speak 9 Miler

I did not know I was running this race until days before. I had a rollercoaster of a health experience--if things went one way, I could race, and if things went another, I could not race. Little did I know, I was at in the beginning stages of a transformative mind/body healing experience.

So step one: show up here. I was physically vulnerable--wounded and bleeding--as well as emotionally. So when a boy's parents spoke before the race to remind us of its cause, addiction, tears welled up in my eyes. It would have been their son's 32nd birthday; that's only one year older than me.

Their bravery in sharing their family's story, and moving forward so positively in the midst of tragedy, inspired me in my personal moment of grief. I cried a little as the race began, overwhelmed with emotion from their story and for gratitude for being alive and being healthy overall. I dedicated my race to celebrating their son's life.

Right by the turnaround point in Saugatuck Shores

It was a comfort to be on familiar terrain. The race took us from Calf Pasture Beach (only 1 mile from my house), up Pine Hill, down Old Saugatuck Road, through Saugatuck Shores, then back to the beach. Yes there were hills, but I knew them. Yes I felt lost, but recognized my deeper knowing.

After this cleansing race experience, I opened myself up to running a full marathon in the fall. Sure, the one that I'd do was only 8 weeks away; sure, I haven't really been racing much...but why not? I can run 13 miles now, so I could run 16, then 18, then 20, then 26...

I opened up my calendar and saw I could squeeze in those necessary long runs. Armed with my resolve and my family's support, I registered for the Hartford Marathon a mere 7.5 weeks ahead of the race.

The Run Down

Type: Race
Course Distance: 9 miles
Location: Calf Pasture Beach/Saugatuck
Terrain: Rolling Hills
Hydration/nutrition: Water stations
Bathrooms: At start/finish
Other conditions to consider: Wind could always be a factor by the water; some pavement on Old Saugatuck is pretty beat up/could cause an ankle roll
Recommended? Yes

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