Under-Prepared, Overly-Excited

This last week of running has been a bust.  Josh and I decided to do sprints on Monday and since don't like letting him be faster, I really pushed it, and pushed it too hard - strained something in my left calf that has kept me from a full run since. I keep telling myself that one bad week isn't going to mess up an entire 6 months of training but I can't help but feel under-prepared for the Melbourne Beaches and Music Half Marathon this coming Sunday. But being under-prepared can't stop me from being excited to run another race and that I am.  I have been talking about this race non-stop for a month, to the point of annoyance for others, so I think being over-excited is compensating a bit.

After just 4 weeks of completing my first half marathon, the Disney Half - I will be racing my previous time and setting a PR for myself this weekend.  I had dreams of running a sub 2 hour race but am feeling that I am just not ready for that speed.  So although I intend to save this goal for another race, I do have several things I want to accomplish this race.

1. Don't freak out.  If I learned anything from Disney, I learned that I freak out way too much.  I mean what is the big deal; I know I won't win this thing - why can't I just go out and have a lot of fun? I have to admit I am doing a lot better knowing I've done this once before.

2. A little Gusto at the end.  I've been working hard to push at the end of my runs, teaching myself to have a little Gusto for the finish.  The last 5K - I will crush you!

3. Don't let the bridges intimidate me. I've been doing my long runs over the bridges just to prepare.  But since Florida is relatively flat with an exception of these bridges, I definitely struggle and so does my mile time.  I am not going to let these slower miles get in the way of a strong race.

4. PR! I have a time in mind, but not wanting to share it a loud. As corny as it sounds, no matter the time, I'll be proud that I am going strong with my training and doing what I can to improve.

5. Lastly - find another race.  I think that is the trick for me; as long as I have something to train for...I am training.  Maybe the Gasparilla Classic in March?

Just two of these stand in my way of the finish!