Well what an incredible year it has been for me and running. I’ve made lots of new friends and memories, completed a couple of ultras and the true cherry on top…a 26.2 PR! After a few years of dealing with a running plateau, and just feeling kind of BLAH about racing and marathon training…I feel like a year like this has just been long overdue. I am so thankful for strong legs to carry me through. Let’s recap it a bit!
Best race experience? Without a doubt the BMW Dallas Marathon not long ago. I really surprised myself with a 3:47 finish time…slashing over 7 minutes off of my previous personal record. This race really restored my faith in the marathon distance and made me believe in myself and my abilities again. It’s so great when the stars just align like that!
Best run? Fossil Valley trail run/relay back in July. What an awesome bonding experience this was with my Irving Running Club mates. Running overnight for 9 hours was really something totally out of my comfort zone and I got to do this with some pretty badass people.
Best new piece of running swag? I’m not sure that this exactly counts as SWAG per se but I will always and forever cherish winning 2nd place female at my first ever 50 mile race in May. Can I say that I actually enjoyed running and being in my own head for 10 hours? Yeah, that is some next level crazy right there. I can’t wait to do it again one day.
Best piece of running advice you’ve received? If you are ever doubting your ability to run a ultramarathon…just know that you will go out there and be spending an entire day doing what you LOVE. Running. Be patient with yourself, enjoy the time on your feet and enjoy the ride!
Most inspirational runner? Jenn Shelton. I honestly love women ultrarunning badasses. Plus, she is a bonafide trail runner and I always think trail runners are so laid back and cool. I am roadie at heart but I’m trying to embrace my inner trail runner hippie spirit. So stay tuned.
If you could sum up your year of running in a few words what would they be?
Limitless
Courageous
Getting comfortable being uncomfortable
Many early mornings and double run training days
Savage
Celebratory
How was your year of running? Answer any of all of the questions!
My year was fantastic. I’ll probably steal your questions for a Christmas post. Too many things happening pre-Christmas. Congrats on that PR! I PRed a few days ago and the feeling is amazing. 🙂
haha I *think* I saw that on Strava! 😉 Congrats to you!! And thank you!
You’ve set the bar high for ’17.
You are an inspiration C!
Have a great holiday celebration and HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Thanks too, for your LIKES, comments, music tips and Spin-couragement in 2016!
You’re welcome! I always enjoy your playlists!! Happy spinning and blogging for the upcoming year!
Congrats on your year, it sounds like you’ve done really well
https://rachelwilliams94.wordpress.com/
Thanks! I’m digging your blog as well! Have a great day!
What a great year! Congrats on your marathon PB and 2nd place in an Ultra – woah! Hope 2017 brings you lots of mileage.
Yep! And right back atcha lady!
you are a total badass and i see you as a trail runner more than a road runner!! my best race was disneyland paris half which was beautiful and perfect weather but my best race even though it was hard as hell was gasparilla in february.
Thanks…I’m working on the hippie trail runner part! I do enjoy the path less traveled!
Loved reading through these running highlights of yours!!!! Can’t wait to see what races you do in this next year!!
Thanks love! Same to you! Cheers and blessings into 2017!!
I’m sure 2017 will be just as exciting!
haha…stay tuned girlie!
Congratulations! 🙂 Sounds like a great yet of running. I’ve never heard of Jennifer Shelton. I’ll have to look her up!
https://www.outsideonline.com/1892281/ultramarathoner-jenn-shelton
Thanks!
You had such a great year!! Congrats on all your races and accomplishments.. Cant wait to see you in beastmode next year! Hope you have a great holiday 🙂
You too love!
What a great year!! Congrats on that PR!!
Thanks so much!
I love running too. I’m not at the marathon stage yet, but I will get there someday.
Yay!! You’ll get there! Happy running!
Thank you!
Awesome year of running!! And congrats on the marathon–I’m hoping to run a half or full once I am old enough and it is safe!! Would you mind checking out my new blog/spread the word??
Absolutely following u now! Run happy!
Thank you so much!!
Congrats on a great year. I’m set for my first 50K this year! In love with trail running! 🙂
Woohoo! Have fun gettin dirty! 🙂