My Boston Memories

A year earlier I'd met my qualifier. The dream of a lifetime. I set out to run Boston in 2002. It was a disaster! In hindsight, I'd left my race on the track three weeks earlier, no thanks to my coach.

I was also nervous beyond reason before the start. I couldn't eat before the race. Bonk! I ended up having to walk during the race. I came home feeling defeated, like a failure.

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I recovered and ran well thru the summer. Then in the fall I developed Posterior tibial tendonitis. Plus, I'd become very frustrated with my coach and running program. Houston Marathon day was in January. It's the biggest day for running in Houston and I wouldn't be running.

So, I left town to attend a seminar with Owen Anderson, Ph.D. It was a turning point in my running career. He agreed to coach me. I hoped to run Boston again but wasn't even sure I could run 6 miles.

Now I was on my own, no running group. Training via email with Owen. It was different but went well. I arrived in Boston healthy and happy. The day before, I ran the Patriot's run. I met this delightful "character" and talked the whole way. What fun! The sun was bright and the air was cool. It was like magic. I was in a very special zone.

The next day I arrived in Hopkinton before the race. I was so calm and relaxed. I felt at peace with the world and myself. All my difficulties were behind me. I'd nothing to prove. I ran with so much joy and happiness. I soaked up everything around me.

After Heartbreak Hill, which I conquered this time, I was still strong. I believe I negative split the race. It was hot at the end but I didn't feel it. Seeing the finish line was so emotional. I finished with a new qualifying time, 9 minutes faster than I needed (3:51.53). It's something I'll treasure for a lifetime.

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