On February 12th I completed my first 1/2 marathon. I ran it in 1 hour and 48 minutes, a personal best and well below my 2 hour goal. My average pace was 5:15 (km). The race was so much fun that I can’t wait until the next one.

The first 10-K is always the toughest for me, but once I seem to hit that magic point in my runs I become a whole new runner. For the first 10-K my pace was more like 5:45. Not bad but not fast enough. I really turned it up and began running more around the 5:45 pace, and for some periods as fast as 4:30. It is hard to describe, but I was just able to run faster for longer periods of time than I have ever done. It felt great, especially when I was passing people looking strong and fresh.

On Monday I begin my marathon training. As I have discussed before, I am using this training program. It is more running that I have ever done before and I am sure I may not be too popular with my wife at times (she is very supported though - thanks honey!). I am looking forward to the run and especially the race. Bring on the speed…