Point of No Return

Six short days before the NYC Marathon, the predominant feelings in my heart are excitement and dread. Barring some sort of freak late injury, I should manage the full 26.2 miles; I’m not as ready as I wanted to be, nor will my time be as quick as some of my shorter races suggest, but I committed to running and to finishing my first marathon.

Ready:

Trained consistently 5-6 days per week all year - either in the CrossFit box or on the roads/trails.
Improved my technique both as a runner and CrossFitter (lifts, gymnastics, mobility, etc.) thanks to great coaches and a fantastic community of fellow athletes.
Returned some excellent personal results at races ranging in distance from 5k to 13.1 miles - the reward for training and improving technique.

Not (so much):

Have not done enough longer runs which would give me a confidence about the ability to cover the full 26.2 miles. My longest was 18 miles.
Definitely am a little worn down between the training/racing, some work-related and personal stress, so am not as excited about my first full marathon as I would like to be at the end point of my training.
I have gone a little off my optimal diet and have gained 5 lbs over the past few months. This may account for some of my energy loss.

Still, overall I have rarely been as fit as I am now. Remembering how it felt to run even three miles when I returned to regular distance running three years ago, it feels fantastic to have arrived at this moment!

Autumn Marathon