The Hungry Runner Girl: Rookie of the Year

Saturday, February 26, 2011

Rookie of the Year

Am I mad at myself? Yep.

How long am I going to let this make me mad? 12 hours.

Is this race going to make me give up? Nope, I am going to train that much harder because I WILL get sub 3 in Boston. I learned about some of my weaknesses and those WILL become my strengths

Did I learn anything? More than any other race (tomorrow's post will be all about the lessons I learned).

I woke up at five (4.5 hours of sleep) and was so excited to run. Had a yummy b-fast and watched Modern Family in bed until it was time to get up. The race didn't start until 9 so I had a lot of free time. I put my game face on and we left the condo at 7:50.

This was Megan's first 1/2 marathon and SHE ROCKED IT!!!!! If you remember, this is my bff from high school that is a professional dancer and along with that now does running and tri's. She has an awful cold and still got SUB 2!!!!!

Billy told me to do my squinty eye pose. Can you even tell if I have eyeballs or not?

Long story short, Google maps told us the park we were supposed to go to was in the wrong city. 40 minutes before the race we called the event center and realized we were in the wrong city and booked it to Washington City. To say I was a little stressed is an understatement. We hadn't even picked up our bibs so I may have gone a little over the speed limit. No warm-up either. Because of the mix up the boy's didn't make it until after we started. So I had to carry keys, driver's license and didn't have the right shirt on. PS I also had to stop and tie my shoes twice and dropped my drivers license and had to run back 20 feet to get it. Boo.

Megan's little boy came to cheer us on too....um, cutest little boy in the world. I am loving playing with him.

Don't you just want to squeeze him? Uh oh, I think I am getting baby-hungry.

I am trying to stay positive but dang this course was hill city!!! The wind was out of control (20 mph) and my mental status was not good. I will talk more about this next week and what I am doing to CHANGE THAT. You live and learn right?!?!

Yes, the conditions were not the best but it was the best training conditions to prepare me for ANYTHING in Boston.

This guy and I kept passing each other but I beat him in the end, he was a sweetie and it was fun to talk to him after and he kept reminding me he was old enough to be my dad. Boo. He also kept drafting off of me ha, too bad he was half my size....otherwise I would have drafted off of him.

I kept my place the entire race except one guy passed me in the last 1/2 mile.

13.43 miles (.33 miles longer than a normal 1/2 marathon) in 1:32. They are saying they announced the times to be about 40 seconds slower than they actually were. So, according to my Garmin I did 13.1 in 1:29:30.

4th woman overall (1st place 1:25, her PR marathon is 2:47, 2nd place 1:29 and 3rd place 1:31). They said there was about 400 runners total. (Men and woman but I am not sure what place I was overall).

1st place in the 20-30 year old age group.

Gift Certificate to a running store:)

I WILL get a massage after every race from now on. My legs felt so fresh after. I felt bad because the guy had to sanitize the drool from the table after I was done.

Blogger Friends!!! JULIA and RACHELLE rocked and don't they look stunningly beautiful after running a half-marathon!!!

Billy is such a good cheerleader and is helping me so much to get past this race and figure out how to grow from it. He calmed me down after the race and made me feel like I was Kara Goucher. Thank you Billy.

Why was I mad at myself? Because I let my mind tell me I wasn't good enough. I know I could have given more. Better to learn how to deal with this now than at Boston.

Don't worry I will reach my goals:)

After talking to my bro Dan he helped me feel a lot better too (if you can't tell I get a little hard on myself). He reminded me that my first real race was only last April. I am a ROOKIE and women peak in their 30's for endurance events. So, I just gotta keep getting first place in my age group right:)

Hope you are having an amazing weekend and sorry for the late posting. We don't have internet so we had to hit up a Mickey D's parking lot to mooch off of their free wi-fi:)

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

What has made your Saturday AMAZING?

-Being with friends and talking about running ALL. DAY. LONG. I really think I could talk about it all day. Plus, I met some readers at the race and that MADE ME SO HAPPY!!!! Oh, and Cafe Rio:)

How do you get past a bad race?

-Letting myself be upset for a lil' bit and then taking the experience and transforming it to driving me to train harder.

What are you having/had for dinner tonight?

-Megan is making us some awesome chicken dish. Get excited for the recipe!!

137 Comments:

At February 26, 2011 at 6:21 PM , Katelyn @ Chef Katelyn said...: Good thing I am so short I can draft errrbody! Slash girl I love your squinty face, I make the same one, we are twinnies:)

Aweeee yay for Megan!! She is gorgeous, I wish I still danced! Slash I am having salad, quinoa, cinnamon-raisin socca, with my bowl of raisins. I ate basically a whole container in three days, I am craving carbs like a preggo woman! Slash that child is PRECIOUS, when babies have glasses it makes my heart melt<3
At February 26, 2011 at 6:22 PM , Anonymous said...: Sorry you aren't happy with your results but it is still amazing!!!
At February 26, 2011 at 6:26 PM , Unknown said...: I think I had the same race experience 2 half's ago. I know exactly how you feel!! Especially running with keys etc! I'm a die hard sub 90'er and did a 91 is 20mph winds etc...it is what it is...it really is still a GREAT time!! Congratulations!!
At February 26, 2011 at 6:28 PM , poshmamaboutique said...: This comment has been removed by the author.
At February 26, 2011 at 6:29 PM , Running With The Girls said...: I think the harsh running conditions will make you stronger for Boston for sure!!! (that is coming from a Mainer...you never know what the weather will be like in April in New England, that's for sure!!!)

Congrats for 1st place for your age group. Way to go!!!

By the way, what running shoes do you wear for races? I caught a glimpse of them in the pics. They look fast and fun!
At February 26, 2011 at 6:30 PM , Amy said...: Oh girl, I think you did awesome! I'm sorry you're frustrated, but so glad you're keeping your head up!!! It looks like it was a nasty cold/windy day...so props to you for running a half!
At February 26, 2011 at 6:30 PM , Running With The Girls said...: Oh and for dinner, I had a pre-race pasta dinner for a 10 miler tomorrow with my running girls and our families, but after dinner, we got the news that the race has been canceled due to snow. Yuck! :)
At February 26, 2011 at 6:31 PM , Muncher Cruncher said...: Yay for you and meg!! (tell her hi for me!) I am sorry you were disappointed, but let's be honest...YOU DID AMAZING. I am so sad that you were mad at yourself. Don't forget how freaking awesome/talented/speedy/incredible you are. I can't wait to hear all the details and have so much fun in St. Geezy. I miss you here in P-town! xoxoxo

p.s. you WILL accomplish your goals...duh... ;)
At February 26, 2011 at 6:33 PM , Unknown said...: every race is a way to learn and improve. but you must stop and give yourself a HIGH FIVE!! You rocked it. Be thankful for all that race gave you. So proud!! Wish I could have cheered you on in person!
LC
At February 26, 2011 at 6:34 PM , Unknown said...: p.s.
I must have tweeted about you a billion times today. haha! I like to brag about my friends.
;)
At February 26, 2011 at 6:34 PM , Samantha said...: I think you did amazing!! Congrats!
At February 26, 2011 at 6:36 PM , Anonymous said...: It may not have been your greatest run, but now you know what you need to improve on for Boston. Plus, you have the greatest cheerleaders (Billy & all us bloggers cheering you on) if you need support. Congrats to winning your age group & to Megan for her first half!
At February 26, 2011 at 6:38 PM , Katie said...: This is really hitting home as I didn't quite reach my race goal on Thursday and was upset about it for a bit.

But just like you I am using it to motivate me to push harder in my training.

And as all my commenters told me (but I understand were you are coming from with being dissapointed in not meeting your goal) you did freakin awesome!! That is a rockstar half time :)
At February 26, 2011 at 6:39 PM , Amanda@runninghood said...: Hey girlie. Sorry to hear that you're disappointed. I hope it is true what they say about women in their 30's because I think I am just now finally ready to believe in myself and be in the race mentally. All through and high school and college I just couldn't get my mind to do it's part and I'd always psych myself out. It bums me out because I know that I should have run way faster times in the past but just couldn't get their mentally. YOu seem to have a really good perspective of the whole thing! Good for you! You WILL reach your goals...I believe that 100%! It's hard to push yourself mentally to where you know you are at physically! You're still so young and I can only imagine how great you'll be when you hit your 30's if you're this good and this wise now! :)
I was thinking of you on my light run today as I was testing out my new Wave Riders and I was hoping I'd come home to your race report.
For dinner so far I just had a huge ice cream/cookie sandwich from trader joes in honor of you (that's what I'm telling myself now that I feel so guilty from consuming 27 grams of fat and who knows how much sugar!). I'm also telling myself that I can afford it after my mile repeats yesterday.
At February 26, 2011 at 6:40 PM , Bess@Bess Be Fit said...: Girl you did awesome! Its absolutely a learning experience and I know you are taking away valuable lessons :) I have zero doubt you'll rock Boston...you are amazing!!!
At February 26, 2011 at 6:42 PM , Anonymous said...: awww i'm sorry everything wasn't 100% as planned but way to go! you still did great and you'll definitely learn & grow from this!! i rocked out 18 miles today at 8:45/average pace so i'm feeling pretty good about my saturday :)
At February 26, 2011 at 6:42 PM , Meg O @watchmegorun said...: You WILL rock boston and you rocked it today, even if you think you didn't! I know it's hard when you tell yourself you're going to do something and it doesn't go exactly as planned. This will hopefully give you all the motivation you need to get sub 3 at boston!! hope you have a relaxing rest of the weekend :)
At February 26, 2011 at 6:46 PM , Jenn said...: I've never commented before but have been reading your blog for about a month now and I LOVE you and your blog :) You are amazing, and such a running inspiration, you did amazing today and will do amazing at Boston aswell! keep thinking positive :)
At February 26, 2011 at 6:47 PM , Anonymous said...: I'm sorry you had a bad experience, but it sounds like you still overcame it and did pretty well! Congrats on winning your age group!

Dinner was definitely movie theater popcorn and Buncha Crunch. I'm so going to regret that in the morning.
At February 26, 2011 at 6:50 PM , Perpetual State said...: I've been eagerly checking on your blog for a race report, Janae. I can't wait to read your thoughts, once you've given yourself time to be 'mad at yourself' and to wrap your head around your day. You did great! Love your positive outlook - keep chasing those goals. I'm a daily reader in Ontario, Canada with goals of my own (not as lofty as yours!) but I do hope to qualify for Boston in a local race here in October. Good luck, Janae! I'm a BIG fan; you're SO INSPIRING TO ME!!
At February 26, 2011 at 6:52 PM , Britt @ Chicago Runner Girl said...: Congrats on your race. With all things considered, you still did amazing and should be super proud of your achievement.

Last fall when I ran the Chicago Marathon I made a boo-boo and was late to the start line after a mild emotional breakdown and ended up having to carry a few extra layers of clothing for the first several miles, and it was super warm out.

Mistakes are blessings in disguise. They teach us how to make improvements for the future if we allow ourselves to keep an open mind. Boston will be great for you.
At February 26, 2011 at 6:53 PM , Michelle said...: Hey you still ran a great race! Don't be too hard on yourself. I think your attitude of 'let yourself feel sad about it for a little bit and then plan how you can do better in the future' is great! You will reach your goals if you keep a positive attitude!
At February 26, 2011 at 6:53 PM , Amy B @ Second City Randomness said...: Congrats on the awesome race! And you're right- post-race massages are a MUST
At February 26, 2011 at 6:55 PM , Erin said...: Congratulations on your race!! That is awesome :-)!! & hm, I'll have to look into post-race massages! It might become a must in my book :-)
At February 26, 2011 at 7:00 PM , Susan said...: You still rocked even though you didn't meet your goals...that's an awesome time and all the trouble at the start and weather conditions will definitely make you ready for your next race. You can't control what race day will be like!
At February 26, 2011 at 7:00 PM , Lisa said...: Sorry it wasn't the race you were hoping for, but you still came in fourth, which is AMAZING and something I could only dream of doing! And, you obviously learned a lot, so it wasn't all bad! It's great that you have such supportive friends and family to help you through a disappointing race.

We had chicken for dinner too! My husband cooked the chicken and I made the butternut squash. Yum!
At February 26, 2011 at 7:08 PM , EBURNS said...: My Saturday got even more amazing after reading your post, updating my husband about your day (I refer to you as my blog friend), and being so happy and proud of you even though we never met. :)

The only thing that gets me past a bad race is to ask myself what lesson(s) did I learn and then live in a way to not repeat them!!

Dinner: tuna melt and an apple. Simple, and perfect.
At February 26, 2011 at 7:12 PM , small town runner said...: Oh my goodness! I how scary that you were in the WRONG town!!!

That's a really fantastic race considering you are in heavy marathon training, especially!

Too funny that guy was drafting off of you. Hehe. Nice view for him? lol..

Great finish and way to get the awesome post race massage. Those are nice!

Looking forward to the sub 3!!

www.smalltownraces.blogspot.com
At February 26, 2011 at 7:25 PM , Anonymous said...: Aw, I'm sorry you weren't thrilled :/ Seriously, I'm sure being so stressed getting there wasn't helpful. I would have been Freaking. Out.

And I also have a question...and maybe I could find this somewhere already if I looked hard enough, but I'd just like to ask...how tall are you?! I've never noticed before...You looked so much taller than both girls (Julia and Rachelle) and you're squatting! lol
At February 26, 2011 at 7:32 PM , Julia said...: you are so quick with the posting! so impressed! and i absolutely LOVED seeing you at the race today. I hate that you are so disappointed. It really was a tough course...but just know that I have so much confidence in you for the Boston sub 3 and am so inspired by you on a daily basis! Enjoy the rest of your weekend! we should get together again soon :)
At February 26, 2011 at 7:33 PM , natalie said...: to me ur race time was the time of my dreams. dont worry you are so motivated you will make your sub 3 boston i am sure you will.
At February 26, 2011 at 7:34 PM , Puddles Of Run said...: Great recap and glad to hear that you are using this to grow! keep your head up high! To most people this is the phenomenal time and you are an inspiration!!
At February 26, 2011 at 7:36 PM , ash & diz said...: Oh honey! You still did amazing! You are MY running idol! I want to surround you with swedish fish and skittles and make you feel better! lol. YOU are going to ROCK at Boston. Sub 3? No problem girlfriend! :)

cheer up buttercup!
At February 26, 2011 at 7:36 PM , Lindsey@arunningtale said...: Awesome job! You did great - I hate when races don't start out well and you aren't in the right frame of mind at the beginning. I think you deserve a huge pat on the back even if you didn't meet your goal time :)
At February 26, 2011 at 7:36 PM , Anonymous said...: That must have been so frustrating. I hate feeling unprepared for things! You still did amazing, I would LOVE to ever run as fast as you!!

My amazing thing I did today was "race" a 5K on the treadmill for my half marathon training, and even though I was exhausted, somehow managed to top it up to a 6.5 miler to make my weekly mileage. Holy the 5K was TOUGH!!! I'm definitely more of a long distance girl.
At February 26, 2011 at 7:37 PM , Cynthia said...: I think you are AWESOME and AMAZING and TOTALLY ROCK!!
At February 26, 2011 at 7:41 PM , Anonymous said...: oh, and I've been there! my first half marathon went horribly!! i got past it by reminding myself that it was my first race and it made me extra motivated to just finish strong in my next race, which i did!

you just need to remind youself that you are awesome, and you didn't make your goal because of the fact that you probably felt "off" because of being so rushed. there's no reason you won't get a sub 3 for boston!
At February 26, 2011 at 7:42 PM , Sara said...: Everyone has bad runs/races, I know you know this and its totally cool for you to use this as a learning experience, but seriously...YOU FREAKIN' ROCK and are an inspiration to me and I'm sure, like 1,000 other people...always remember that!!
At February 26, 2011 at 7:56 PM , Abby @ Have Dental Floss, Will Travel said...: I'm sorry to hear that it wasn't what you were hoping for - I know how much all those little blips before the race (course change, faulty directions, etc...) can throw things off. Sounds like you're handling it well (love the 12-hour limit on the anger and frustration) and taking everything you can from it. Onward and upward - it'll make the next one that much sweeter!

My amazing Saturday actually started at 10 pm Friday, when I embarked on a middle-of-the-night indoor century ride! Finished at 3:30 AM, slept for a few hours, and spent most of today vegging out and prepping for the big Oscars party we're having tomorrow.
At February 26, 2011 at 8:02 PM , Jessica said...: Don't be so hard on yourself - you did an AWESOME job at your race!! You are so inspirational, I know you will hit your sub-3 hour goal!

My Saturday was amazing because I ran my first 10k this morning :) It went well, but I didn't hit my goal for my first 10k. I'm still learning how to get past that, but I think I'll just have to work hard to hit my goal next time!
At February 26, 2011 at 8:03 PM , gloryrunning said...: QUESTION: What are the white things on your legs? Do you tape? Or are they warmth type things?

LOVE the 12 hour rule =) That's fabulous.

So happy you won your age group! Fantastic! Also, I'm glad that Billy helps you feel like Kara Goucher =) Looking forward to your lessons learned post...
At February 26, 2011 at 8:04 PM , Courtney said...: You are awesome! Great job!
At February 26, 2011 at 8:05 PM , Nina said...: Janae, sorry to hear the race wasn't so great. But you are amazing and inspire me so much! I'm not much of a runner (3 mi on a treadmill and I'm good), but you inspired me to run 6 mi outside this morning! It was a great feeling and thanks for motivating me and for your great blog!
At February 26, 2011 at 8:20 PM , MelPeabody @ Green Mountain Runner said...: I thought about you while I did my run this morning and was trying to send you some good vibes and strong running legs!!!! Sorry it didn't go as planned. You will kill the next one!!!!! Can't wait for your next post on lessons learned. You totally are the rookie of the year too!!!!
At February 26, 2011 at 8:21 PM , Jenn said...: AWWWW!!! Janae, Your amazing!!
You inspire so many people and I want to be fast like you! I cant even believe how fast that is and you are going to be like that one guy running 4 min. miles in no time!!
Im sorry you were sad about your race, but I think your awesome and you look perfect after running too!!
Cant wait to read tomorrow!! :)
Love ya!
At February 26, 2011 at 8:24 PM , Legs said...: I heart you!! You did so well and I know you will do even better in Boston! :D You will learn from this! Hope you have an AMAZING rest of your weekend!!
At February 26, 2011 at 8:24 PM , Anonymous said...: I'm sorry you didn't feel mentally there! You still did amazing and it's a great learning experience!!!
At February 26, 2011 at 8:29 PM , Gracie said...: That's a time to be proud of. Congratulations!
I went ROLLERSKATING today at a birthday party and it made my week. I love roller skating!
At February 26, 2011 at 8:33 PM , Kate (What Kate is Cooking) said...: Congratulations! What an awesome race! You WILL reach your goal at Boston :)
At February 26, 2011 at 8:33 PM , Anonymous said...: Omg you did so well - don't be so hard on yourself girl! YOU are amazing! I wish I could run that fast :)
At February 26, 2011 at 8:38 PM , Meg said...: your time is amazing. your places are amazing. you're so amazing. don't be mad at yourself, but if you must, eat some skittles and get past it quickly. you're going to blow everyone away in boston. HUG
At February 26, 2011 at 8:43 PM , XLMIC said...: First in your age group even after dealing with major adversity... pretty dang AWESOME, girl! I understand why you are disappointed, and what you said about "better to learn how to deal with this now than in Boston" hits the nail right on the head. And absolutely... feel your disappointment long enough to let the experience teach you how to NOT be in that place next time :) You are a fighter and a champion. So glad your bro put that rookie perspective on this for you. If this is what you do as a rookie, just imagine how it's going to be as you mature!!! Incredible!
At February 26, 2011 at 8:43 PM , SweetsQueen said...: Congrats to you girl! I understand the mental game that tells you all kinds of lies. Stay strong and get your mantras straight. You are awesome. And, I happen to like your "squinty eye" pose. :)
At February 26, 2011 at 8:45 PM , Christine said...: You did awesome under the conditions! Oh, and, babies in glasses are absolutely adorable.
At February 26, 2011 at 8:51 PM , Cory Reese said...: Nice to talk with you after the race!

Yep - super hilly + super windy = bleh.

(I put some race pictures at www.fastcory.com )
At February 26, 2011 at 8:59 PM , ShortSkirts said...: Congrats on the race! Sounds like it was really tough. And your time is still phenomenal even though it was slower than you were shooting for.

First in your age group is huge! And i'm glad this is just motivating you more to train for Boston!
At February 26, 2011 at 9:03 PM , Lindsey said...: Last year I ran a half marathon that didn't go as I wanted it too and was so upset. But I gave myself a time limit to be mad and then just moved on. I found another race a month or so later and the feelings from the past marathon helped me push myself harder and achieve my goal of under 2 hours. I didn't want to ever feel disappointed in myself again so I did hang on to that feeling for times when I wanted to slack.
At February 26, 2011 at 9:13 PM , Nicole @ Of Cookies & Carrots said...: I think you are amazing regardless, and that you did really well! It's particularly inspiring to see you turning the challenges of this race into your strengths, and being self-aware enough to allow yourself to have maybe a moment of feeling bad about it but using it as MOTIVATION. Definitely something I struggle with.

You WILL run your sub-3 marathon I have every faith in you! :)

<3
n
PS how do you still look so pretty after a race?! jealous.
At February 26, 2011 at 9:22 PM , Anonymous said...: My BFF is in town for one night and is sleeping over :-) Best Saturday Ever. We also went out for dinns, which I hadn't done in MONTHS. That's really sad, isn't it?! I'm going to work on that!

I can understand why the race today was disastrous for you, but you still pulled an impressive time! And congrats on first place!!
At February 26, 2011 at 9:29 PM , Shannon said...: Great job even under the stressful conditions!!! I ran my first race today and I am definitely in love with it. Sooooo happy. I can't wait till you go to Boston and kick that city's butt!
At February 26, 2011 at 9:31 PM , Unknown said...: This comment has been removed by the author.
At February 26, 2011 at 9:53 PM , Caroline said...: You are a champion. I think you did great.
I get being hard on yourself I am the same. Not always good. See the positive. Listen to Billy.
I ran with Dean KARNAZES today, next to him the whole time I got a picture of that ! A great day! Racing a 10k tomorrow. Cheer up girlie!
At February 26, 2011 at 10:09 PM , Raina said...: Back again to say:
You really did an outstanding job, girl! You have that super PR in you, still. Save it!

I hope you see this as a practice race & that you aren't truly disappointed. Racing all out 100% could set you back for Boston anyway. You don't need / want to take extra time off for recovery right now.

It IS awesome that Billy was able to comfort you and put things in perspective. He is PERFECT for YOU. :)

Also, i agree with Amanda about the 30's...Maybe you better have those babies in your 20's so that you can free up that decade for some serious PRs...hehe...imagine what lies ahead!!
At February 26, 2011 at 10:24 PM , Nicole said...: I'm sorry you didn't get your goal but I'm confident Boston is your race and you will rock it!!! Keep up the great work!!!
At February 26, 2011 at 10:48 PM , Lacey said...: Janae, you are AMAZING! I'm sorry you didn't get your goal, but you are only human. You will accomplish all your goals, it just may take time! You are so genuine, kind, beautiful, dedicated and you work so hard. I know you will do great at Boston. You are such an inspiration! xoxox
At February 26, 2011 at 11:00 PM , Unknown said...: You're so inspirational Janae! Your positivity and perseverance finishing this race in those conditions and after a little hectic morning under 1:30 is insanely amazing! I'm a firm believer in everything happening for a reason and this race only makes you even more mentally and physically ready to kick some major butt in B! I can't wait to read about how all your hard work, 110% effort, and humbleness pay off when you cross the finish line in April!

"Everything happens for a reason, what’s supposed to happen will happen… if things don’t go your way, it can be stressful, painful, and hard, but you don’t always have to be in control. It’s all just a part of the grand scheme of things. Don’t let your emotions cloud your vision. Don’t ever fail to see the bigger picture. You may not understand why things are happening the way they are, but soon enough you’ll know."

p.s your friend's baby boy is the cutest thing EVER, kinda reminds me of the adorable boy in Jerry Maguire that says, “Did you know the human head weighs 8 pounds?" :)

http://www.mentalfloss.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/jerry-maguire-kid.jpg
At February 26, 2011 at 11:08 PM , Unknown said...: You did amazing! Don't let the little things in life get in your way, celebrate every accomplishment!

What made this Saturday great was running my second 5k!!! I shaved over a minute off my last race and got a 23:53!! I am eating girl scout cookies for dinner... I couldn't resist :)
At February 26, 2011 at 11:17 PM , Connie said...: fourth place is amazing dearie! being hard on yourself is good, just don't let it go too far and devastate yourself :) you can't improve if you're a hardass on yourself, use your anger and channel it into motivation!
At February 26, 2011 at 11:20 PM , Jeri said...: I would've lost my mind with that stressful of a morning pre-race. Yikes! That's enough to throw anyone's mental game off a little bit (and a LOT a bit for those of us that are loco when it comes to racing... which I'm totally guilty of!)

Amazing job on a tough course in tough conditions. Sorry it wasn't your A race, but it sounds like you've gotten a lot of perspective from this race, so that'll help you nail your sub 3 fo SHO! :D
At February 26, 2011 at 11:30 PM , Zaneta @ Runner's Luck said...: Im sorry your race didn't go as you wanted it to... but i still think you're a rock star!!! You are awesome girlie!! :) Keep your head up! You WILL meet your goals! :D
At February 27, 2011 at 12:08 AM , Jill said...: I'm sorry you didn't get the goal you wanted, but considering the mess at the start perhaps you were just a little stressed and not overly focused?? And windy races just SUCK!!! You still did great though and no doubt you'll get that Boston goal for sure!!!
At February 27, 2011 at 12:23 AM , ida said...: Your bro is so smart! You are a rookie, but a rookie that dominated that race. You are such an inspiration!
At February 27, 2011 at 2:18 AM , Anonymous said...: You did great, it was your trial race before April-so you can take what you need to from it to improve.
I'm trynna do sub 1.30!! I don't do as many miles as you so I may have along way to go!
You have an awesome attitude too-I was so excied for your race all week.
At February 27, 2011 at 2:58 AM , Katy said...: I'm sorry you were so upset, but I'm so proud that you gave yourself a time limit to be mad at yourself, and then you are going to use it as a learning tool! You also should still be really proud of yourself for winning first in your age group!! You are amazing!!
At February 27, 2011 at 3:25 AM , SueM said...: You did great! Be hard on yourself in the time limit you set (great idea) and then learn from this. Like you said, you are a rookie at this - it will get easier and you'll learn more about race planning. You rocked! Keep blogging - love your adventures :-)
At February 27, 2011 at 4:16 AM , Anonymous said...: GIRL that is awesome!! you are such a good runner i feel like honored to be able to write on your blog and know you.. since your basically famous

my saturday night was a little too crazy..................enuf said

BUT for dinner i had a rockin' sweet cinnamon roasted butternut squash with almond butter and cinnamon sauteed tofu
At February 27, 2011 at 4:35 AM , Anonymous said...: OMG you're amazing! Don't be hard on yourself - you have such a talent! I wish I could run as fast as you
At February 27, 2011 at 4:50 AM , Anonymous said...: I completely understand how frustrating a race can be when it doesn't go how you wanted, or how it should have according to your training. So frustrating. But you're right - let yourself be mad, then move on and learn from it. This race has nothing on you and Boston, except to teach you and move you forward!
At February 27, 2011 at 4:52 AM , Kimberly said...: You did awesome and you'll know soon enough.

BTW, you might be more like Kara Goucher than you think. I read in Runners World that she struggles for confidence, as well. The mind games get to the best of us.

I hope you celebrated your accomplishment with a cupcake topped with Swedish fish.
At February 27, 2011 at 4:53 AM , Anonymous said...: PS - hope you got an ice cream cone at McDonalds while you were mooching internet...
At February 27, 2011 at 4:57 AM , Anonymous said...: Oh, what a stressful start to a race! I get nervous before races and I have to have everything totally arranged or I freak out. You did super awesome especially considering you had no time to warm up, and had to speed to get there!

You're going to ROCK Boston. You're an amazing runner, and you work really hard. With Billy as your cheering squad/ masseuse/ photographer you'll get sub 3. He is coming with you to Boston, right???

Congrats on a hard-fought race! It always takes me a day or so to get over a bad race, but then I learn from it and move on. And it makes the awesome races that much better.

-Your Israeli buddy Chaya
At February 27, 2011 at 4:59 AM , Anonymous said...: I think you did awesome!!!! =D
We had some fried thingys for dinner...don't really know how to describe them.....they look like fried pies but the dough is thinner and they're savory...=P
At February 27, 2011 at 5:08 AM , ewa_hk said...: You did awesome Janae. Live and learn girl. With all the stress and drama it would take a major miracle for me to pull off a race like that! Love you girl!
At February 27, 2011 at 5:27 AM , middleagedrunner said...: I think you did awesome! the best thing about any kids of "test" competition before an important one (aka: Boston) is that for better of worse you know what you need to work on. In the long run even though you didn't feel terrific about this race it will help you improve for next time! Sounds like a very stressful start too- great job not letting it completely freak you out. Good practice for staying cool when things get crazy!
At February 27, 2011 at 6:14 AM , Maria said...: First for your age group! That is what you need to focus on :) Like you say women get faster at longer races in their 30's and to be first in your age groiup you have to be doing something right. That is a tough start to a race (being late and flustered) so you did amazingly well! I cant beleive how fast you went! My 13 mile training run made my saturday great (and it took me 2 hours 33 mins!)- hooray :)
At February 27, 2011 at 6:34 AM , chelsey @ clean eating chelsey said...: You did AMAZING!!! 1:29? That's on pace for a SUB 3 MARATHON TIME!! You are going to rock it!
At February 27, 2011 at 7:00 AM , clm said...: I can't believe the crazy morning you had! I still think you did awesome, and like you said, at least you learned the lessons now and not at Boston. You are still going to totally kill Boston!!!!!
At February 27, 2011 at 7:05 AM , Maria said...: This was perfect practice for Boston. You are going to rock it!
At February 27, 2011 at 7:07 AM , Anonymous said...: Nice time Janae!! You did really well, especially for the state of mind you were in. You are totally going to rock Boston!! What a stressful day. That would make anybody a little bit crazy. I'm glad you're letting yourself be mad, and then using it to get better.
I love your squinty eyes. My husband always asks to see my squinty face too. Or I blame him when people wonder why I look like a weirdo in pictures. His mom thought I was Asian for over a year. I am awesome.
At February 27, 2011 at 7:20 AM , Anonymous said...: All I got for you IS YOU'RE AMAZING! Remember that when you are hard on yourself girly!! Way to go!!!!!!!!!!
At February 27, 2011 at 7:28 AM , Pam @ herbieontherun.com said...: Ugh, the wind... I can run in the freezing cold. I can run in the pouring rain. But NOTHING sucks the life out of me faster than running in high winds. I hate that you had such bad conditions to run in yesterday.

How crazy is it that you were in the wrong town?! That could have been BAD!

I'm sorry you didn't get the results you were looking for, but I'm happy that you have such a good outlook on it. You WILL get stronger because of this.

I wish I could have been one of the readers you met yesterday!

Oh, and a big congrats to Megan on her sub-2. :)

Much love!
At February 27, 2011 at 7:31 AM , Unknown said...: I think I threw off your mental state! I was just finishing the 9k and saw you coming around the turn and I was the idiot that yelled for you! haha - now you are going to hate me! I think your time was awesome! Fun race and it was hard...the wind was nuts!
At February 27, 2011 at 7:33 AM , Anonymous said...: You are SO amazing! You really are, don't doubt yourself, I know you will do AMAZING in Boston! I think I told you this already, but it starts in my home town! Also, my brother is running it, so I will be able to cheer you on from the start, the half, and the finish! I can't wait! You're an inspiration! I set a PDR yesterday of 9 miles and think I did it in the time it took you to run the half! Hhehe! :)
At February 27, 2011 at 7:35 AM , Anonymous said...: Even the most amazing professional runners have a disappointing race that doesn't go as they hoped/planned. This really was just a training run for you to prepare for the big event AND you got fourth! You are an amazing runner who's only just begun to tap into your potential. Consider this as another opportunity to make you stronger and then move forward. You are a rock star!
At February 27, 2011 at 7:35 AM , Natalia - a side of simple said...: A huge congratulations goes out to you, Janae. One for your race and two for acknowledging your strengths AND weaknesses. I think more than anything that's the hardest part and why I admire you so much :) You're truly an inspiration and a role model. You got it, girl, and your determination is only one of your atributes that makes you shine.
At February 27, 2011 at 7:52 AM , Anonymous said...: in your "Bad" races, you still kill all of our times! and at least you made it to your race, i just completely skipped mine!
At February 27, 2011 at 8:03 AM , Kristy said...: Hi Janae! Congrats on placing 1st in your age group. That is amazing in itself. This is just the beginning for you and you have an entire running path ahead of you. I love your long-term goals and I can see you placing in larger races. You keep on keepin' on...and kick ass in Boston.
At February 27, 2011 at 8:08 AM , Anonymous said...: Janae, Hopefully you are done being hard on yourself by now! Each race is an opportunity to learn what to do for the next one! You are an amazingly talented runner - I'm sure Boston will be great! When is your next race~ do you have another one before Boston?
At February 27, 2011 at 8:11 AM , Coreen said...: You did AWESOME! Don't be so hard on yourself! Congratulations and like you said just use what you learned to make it better next time!
At February 27, 2011 at 8:30 AM , Miranda said...: The first thing I did this morning once I got up was come check to see if you had updated! Had a CRAZY day yesterday so was off line all day. You did amazing! And I am sure that you will rock Boston!!
At February 27, 2011 at 8:37 AM , Holli said...: Great job! My coach tells me to "mourn the loss" for no more than a day and then move on. I just know you are gonna ROCK Boston!! I've run Beantown 2x and loved the whole experience!!
At February 27, 2011 at 8:46 AM , Jessica said...: I actually laughed when I read this post. Wait! Don't think I'm being mean: I just think it's so amazing how achievements are all relative. For me (and almost anyone else) that would be a time to treasure forever, but I appreciate that for an elite like you it was a disappointment. But still: 1:29, a disappointment? It just blows my mind. Just emphasises how naturally athletic you are though. Don't beat yourself up over it: there were a lot of things going against you and even if your mindest was negative, I think most people's would have been after such a stressful morning and your recent injury woes.

Congrats on the time anyway!

xxx
At February 27, 2011 at 8:54 AM , Anonymous said...: Girl, you still rocked this race! It's all preparation for Boston!
At February 27, 2011 at 10:54 AM , Anonymous said...: Awww dearie it's ok. I once threw up in a marathon and almost dropped out. I felt awful afterwards because all of my hard work had been thrown away and it was such a let down but you will be ready for Boston. One race does not define you and now you have lessons learned! Chin up girl! You are an inspiration to all! :)
At February 27, 2011 at 11:23 AM , Anonymous said...: sorry you are disappointed.

I still think you are a rockstar and my hero.
At February 27, 2011 at 11:37 AM , Zenaida Arroyo said...: I hope you are feeling better. You are still an AWESOME person!!!
At February 27, 2011 at 11:46 AM , Anonymous said...: I still think you are a complete inspiration! You're going to rock Boston!
At February 27, 2011 at 11:50 AM , Mommyrunsoncoffee said...: It was a rough start, but only o make you stronger and more mentally prepared than you ever imagined. All of that considered you still ran freaking fast and rocked the awards! I think it just goes to show that you are a fighter and a star runner!!! congrats on your race! Keep your head up- and rest up today....not long until you sub 3 Boston!
At February 27, 2011 at 11:53 AM , Laura @ Meet Virginia said...: Weeeellllll if it makes you feel any better, you ran a "bad" race an hour and 2 minutes faster than I ran my first half!!! I KNOW you will dominate in Boston, do don't you worry! And then I will come to Utah to celebrate and we will celebrate by going to cafe rio and eating lots of desserts. You are my running inspiration no matter what you think. LOVE YOU!!!
At February 27, 2011 at 12:01 PM , Running Ricig said...: You are seriously awesome! Also, you look cute in your race pics! I always look like i'm about two feet away from death. I have no doubt you'll reach your goals.
At February 27, 2011 at 12:16 PM , Jess @ Blonde Ponytail said...: I am in love with your mindset and perspective!! Absolutely a fabulous way to respond to a race that did not meet your expectations. You still ran an unbelieveable, amazing, speedy half though!!! I am looking forward to your "LESSONS LEARNED" post today and know I will use many of them.

Love the pictures--you look STUNNING after 13.43 miles! The race photos show off your legs that going on for miles!! Holy strides!! :) HAVE A WONDERFUL RECOVERY DAY!!
At February 27, 2011 at 12:20 PM , Unknown said...: I know everyone is telling you that you are awesome - because you are. You know that, but I understand the frustration. Personally, it's nothing to beat yourself up over. Eat some iced animal crackers and smile cause you are amazing in my eyes! ;)
At February 27, 2011 at 12:24 PM , Anonymous said...: u r an amazing and strong woman! i think u did terrific. and in a few days this will be behind you and more races will be ahead of u. and u will see this as a big learning experience.
cheer up! u r a rockstar! have some skittles and smile!
At February 27, 2011 at 1:04 PM , Pink Champagne, Gatorade, and MRE's said...: You did a GREAT JOB and kicked some major ass! If i ran a race with 400 people I prob would have been 4th from the bottom ha! Just eat more candy than normal get pumped for Boston :)
At February 27, 2011 at 1:27 PM , J said...: Great race considering you were frazzled before the wedding! I hate being late and it always stresses me out!! This will only make you a stronger runner! Congrats on first place in your AG!
At February 27, 2011 at 2:15 PM , Meredith said...: You are an inspiration. I am super competitive like you and would love to some day run a marathon sub 3 hours. My first and only I did it in 3:31, next up is the Marine Corp Marathon. Can't wait to follow your progress and hopefully get some insights :)
At February 27, 2011 at 2:40 PM , Holly said...: CONGRATS on your first place in your age group. Even if you didn't get the time you wanted, there were so many hills & you get MAJOR props because I think you did AMAZING! Personally I think you ROCKED it & you are still (& will forever be) my running hero :)
LOVE ya girl!!
At February 27, 2011 at 3:53 PM , Anonymous said...: Ahhh, that must have been so stressfull before the race! You still rocked it and are the fastest person I know. Congrats on 1st place age group! You are my hero.
At February 27, 2011 at 4:08 PM , Anonymous said...: bummer that this race wasn't what you wanted it to be. but you're still awesome in my book. and i think it's 100% okay to be mad at yourself for a race you aren't happy with. but you're one smart cookie in knowing that you will not give up. and you can't because i need to meet you in boston :)
At February 27, 2011 at 4:15 PM , Anonymous said...: even with the wind, your time was amazing! congrats!
At February 27, 2011 at 4:22 PM , Jenny said...: You ran an amazing race! Congratulations!!! : )
At February 27, 2011 at 5:50 PM , Anonymous said...: Wow congrats Janae! You are so fast! I haven't developed a super speed yet, still working on that!
At February 27, 2011 at 8:35 PM , Pam said...: Janae you did sooo GREAT!! :)

1st place in your age group!! AWESOME!! You look great in your race pictures! :)
At February 27, 2011 at 9:07 PM , katelyn w said...: As a semi-new follower, you are SUCH an inspiration! Congratulations on such a great time! Plus you look awesome after running! I am running my first half in May any suggestions?
At February 27, 2011 at 9:41 PM , RunningOnCoffee said...: Great job! I'm sure the pre-race confusion didn't help things, but that seems like an awesome time!! Both of my previous half marathons came out as longer than 13.1 on my Garmin. I must weave a lot or didn't run the shortest possible route of the course.

Bad Race? September 2010, still getting over it. Had hoped to improve my previous half time, but was 10 minutes slower. It was also 25 degrees warmer than my first. Blahhh.

Last night's dinner was steak, garlic mashed potatoes, and spinach/arugula a la my husband.

Keep up the good work, you'll be amazing in Boston!
At February 28, 2011 at 12:23 AM , Aron said...: I am so sorry you didn't have a good race, I have been there MANY a time. We learn SO much from the bad races though and as long as you can take away lessons, which obviously you are, it's a successful day. Plus it's good you got the bad race out of the way before Boston anyways ;) You are still so amazing, just keep working hard like you are girl!
At February 28, 2011 at 5:50 AM , Rachel said...: Girl.. I had a hard race yesterday! Just know, you beat me by a full HOUR for a half! :) You rock it! If I could ever run a sub 2:15, I would tap dance across the finish line!
At February 28, 2011 at 6:59 AM , Mallory said...: Try not to be so hard on yourself! Especially after the drama that you had to deal with prior to the race! That would mess anyone up! I think you had a killer race!! Keep reminding yourself how much you ROCK!
At February 28, 2011 at 8:43 AM , Melissa said...: You are amazing!! And even with that stressful start you got 1st in your age group =)
At February 28, 2011 at 10:21 AM , Unknown said...: Girl, we love you! You will reach your goals. I can't tell you not to be hard on yourself, or I'd be a hypocrite. I just hope you realize how amazing you are. You are MY running inspiration, always. :) You looked super strong in all of those photos.

How cold was it? Looks BRRRRR.
At February 28, 2011 at 10:57 AM , Big Daddy Diesel said...: Congrats on taking first!!!

I am confused why you are mad, look at the conditions, you had the stress on trying to make it to the race site on time, 20mph winds, its never fun racing into a head wind, overcast and looks cold, either rained while you raced or just before you raced. This was a conditions race, you cant calculate for those, I would file this one under mental toughness in your running journel, this race will reap rewards later in the season when the conditions are perfect
At February 28, 2011 at 1:34 PM , Stefanie D. said...: Janae!! You did so awesome! And I totally passed you on my way back from the 9K. I was the crazy person waving and cheering for you after the first mile. LOL. It was fun to see you in action. :)

BTW. The wind. Sucked. The end.
At February 28, 2011 at 2:59 PM , Sabrina @ Radioactive Runner said...: I know I am a little behind but I wanted to wish you a huge CONGRATS on your run!! Wow!! I'm sorry to hear it didn't start out so great and that you weren't that happy with how you did... but you are AWESOME!!!!!!
At February 28, 2011 at 3:01 PM , blondevue... said...: Love that you posted from McDonalds! That is awesome! Congratulations on 1st place in your age group! That is terrific!! You are going to do so well at Boston. You already are doing incredible! Congratulations!
At March 1, 2011 at 12:20 PM , funderson said...: Oh, I hate to hear you beating yourself up.. You're amazing!! Well done
At March 1, 2011 at 7:49 PM , Anonymous said...: You did so well! I would KILL to have times like yours... You could nearly run 2 halfs in the time I run one. Hope you get out of your funk! I'm sure you are going to rock Boston's socks!
At March 9, 2011 at 11:48 PM , Anonymous said...: I'm sitting here trying to imagine what it would feel like to be disappointed in a 1:32 half marathon. The concept is so out of this world to me that it makes me want to laugh. (Sorry - I know you don't find it funny.) That's just so ridiculously fast! I mean, seriously, that's so fast! Take a step back and compare yourself to us common folk. You're a superstar!

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