Racing Vs. Running

Over the years I have learned that there is a HUGE difference between running and racing!

RACING

When I sign up for a race I usually have made my mind up if I am going to "run" it or "race" it.

Don’t get me wrong I will be smiling no matter what 🙂 When I go out to "race" I carry water and my fuel, because even those few minutes stopping at water stop in my mind are important. I also make sure to have SUPER FAST paced music and don’t really run with anyone.

I make sure my time chip is nice and secure. Well sometimes 😉

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When I am "racing" I am PUSHING! I always try to make sure I am not stuck in someone else’s pace. It’s easy to mimic the runner in front of you and then get stuck in a much slower pace. This is why my Garmin is so important when I am "racing". I have to run my RACE!

When I am "racing" I take the start a lot more serious! I wake up extra early, I take my pre-race meal serious, and I get a ton of sleep the night before.

And I always seem to feel like the biggest klutz at the end! The LACTIC acid goes straight to my brain! There is always tears too 😉

I have learned that even in those last few miles every step counts!!! (almost missed Boston by a minute). I have to stay mentally strong! I mentally yell at myself and keep telling myself how strong I am.