Drenched with sweat, yet soaking up every glorious moment of the 2012 Boston Marathon. Should I ratchet up my training to feel that high again?
Last week, Dimity outlined her 2014 race calendar. While I don’t have my entire year mapped out, I have a few certainties in place, such as this Sunday’s Tinker Bell Half Marathon and next month’s Princess Half. I had contemplated an ultramarathon this year, but that was so 2013, when I was feeling old and slow.
Thanks to either a return to the track for speed workouts; a stronger (yet still flabby-looking!) core courtesy of twice/weekly barre-style classes; or perhaps divine intervention, I’ve rediscovered some speed I thought I’d lost back in 2010. While sub-1:50 half-marathons seem to have left the proverbial building for me, my 1:53 13.1 last month made me realize I am no longer knocking on the door of 2:00, either. That race result–plus the elevation profile of Canada’s Victoria Marathon (starts at 24 feet, drops as low as 9′ and “climbs” as “high” as 83′, before finishing at 20′), which I’m running this October–prompted Dimity to suggest I try to re-qualify for Boston. Gulp! (Leave it to an Ironmother to throw down that gauntlet.)
Near Mile 15 in my 2009 marathon PR race: I swear I was happier (and more comfortable) than my face shows.
While I’m a dreamer and a schemer, the Boston-qualifying idea hadn’t yet crossed my mind. But since Dim casually tossed it out there in a phone call, it’s been binging around in my brain. I’d have to run 3:55 or faster for 26.2, something I’ve done only once in 10 marathon attempts–and it took every last ounce of effort in me to do. (And a coach by my side, egging me on.) My last–and only other–under-4-hour marathon was in October 2010, and it was a squeaker of 3:59:54.
Suffice it to say: I’d have my work cut out for me to run 3:55 or better. Even the trusty McMillan Calculator suggests I’d have a lot of (speed)work to do to get there. Using Coach Greg McMillan’s math, my recent 1:53:12 half lands me at 3:58:14. for a marathon. A few BQ requisites: I’d need a coach to hold my Saucony-shod feet to the proverbial fire; I’d need to remain injury-free; I’d have to open myself up to some serious hurt in training; and I’d sometimes have to leave my trusty training partner, Molly, behind occasionally.
It’s that last detail–running minus Molly sometimes–that’s the biggest stumbling block for me. I love my Molly–and our laughter-filled runs–so much. We’ve been planning to head to Victoria, with our families in tow, since last fall. Truth be told, training side-by-side was the gorgeous race’s major draw for me. Trying to run fast enough to qualify for Boston would scrub that perk for at least a few workouts per week. Yet Molly responded with gusto when I floated Dimity’s SBS-BQ notion on our long run yesterday–she thinks I should reach for the stars while they are still (somewhat) within my grasp.
So now it’s up for me to decide: Do I get a coach and put myself out there, in the hopes of running a 3:55-or-better marathon–or do I train with Molly and aim for a 4:05-4:10 26.2? I’m all ears, ladies: What do you think I should do, mother runners?
This Instagram photo from Sunday’s run prompted Molly to suggest we do a series in which GU packet photo-bombs us. (Had to be there: Idea cracked us up!)
I just ran a 3:41:05 BQ race at Chicago. It came to me somewhat naturally, just found myself gaining speed as I ran and realized that if I got a 3:45 or better I could run it the month after I turn 40, so I pushed that extra bit a little harder, much as you’d be doing. I’m thrilled for my personal accomplishment, but do feel like my pace has made it more difficult to find a “BRF”, especially in my neighborhood where runners are few and far between and where female BQ-pace marathoners are a complete anomaly. So I’ve thought, “do I slow down, or just run solo?” I don’t have a BRF to part ways with, so I’ve just kept running at my pace for now. I think it’s different when you have a really good friend in Molly. Maybe you could sit down with an idea of what your training plan would look like and figure out how many runs you could salvage with Molly and if that number is workable for the next few months… seems that at least the easy runs could be done with her, and maybe if she did her tempo runs when you did your MP miles or something, some miles could still be had together? Maybe a clever coach could come up with not only a training plan for you, but one for Molly as well and ways for them to intersect?
I have such a hard time getting out without my gal pals. I cannot imagine training for a marathon without them. I am also really slow and have given up on the BQ because I never do speed work. From reading your columns for the past several years – I still have the column from RW where you get the serious training coach and plan for Boston (I promise I’m not a stalker). I think you thrive on the meticulously laid out training plan and gut busting workouts. I say go for it! You’ll never regret trying.
Thst Molly, she’s a keeper. Honestly, there’s no right choice here. Only different paths. Listen to your heart. You will be a great runner no matter which fork your take in the road.
Go for it! Not every workout would be a minus-Molly run – I’m sure you two could come up with a plan to get in some miles together every week. I believe you have it in you, and now’s the time to go after it. It’s either a BQ attempt or try out for Survivor! :)
I feel like Molly understands the sense of time urgency for a goal to BQ. She’s a treasure and work to maintain that friendship, but capture this moment in time so that you know (that you know that you know) you can make it happen! And have Molly join you for barre class. Those things are brutally tough. It’s good to share in the agony!
There are so many variables in this question, Sarah. How old are your kids again? There are years – first communion, first year of middle or high school, senior year of high school – in my kids’ lives that I would not attempt this type of a commitment to my running. I missed a lot of events in my youngest’s senior year that I wish I had been there for due to training and goals of mine.
I know you can do this BQ if you set your mind to it. I just suggest you look at the impact on yourself, your husband and your kids before making a decision.
I’ll keep it short and sweet…. You gotta do it!!
Go for it. You have the encouragement of Dimity, the clearance from Molly, and the gusto to get it done!
With the support of Molly, Dimity…and your family (?) I’d say go for it! Enjoy that re-discovered speed while you can :)
I say go for it! Your BRF is with you, and so are we! I know you can do it!
You can do it! I just “re” qualified in Indianapolis going for the sub-4 and running 3:50. After last year and my provisional entry this year (at mile 26 last year with it all happened), I wanted and needed to get there and get there convincingly. You have all the support you need in Dimity, Molly, your family and Us (your virtual family). And Victoria is a great race – ran it in 2003 and it was one of my favorites.
And remember, if it were easy – it would be called “football”.
PS I know you have kids at home, but I trained for a BQ when my daughter was in high school and I didn’t miss anything. The running makes me stronger and always has helped me be more efficient in life. Your kids are behind you 100%, and you know it. See you there in 2016!
I definitely so go for it!!! I run with some real speedsters (many have run Boston at least once or twice) and I can’t imagine running 26.2 that fast. But for me, I can easily keep up on easy and long runs. When we do hills or track work we warm up and cool down together, but do the speedwork at our own pace, but still “together”. Tempo runs or pace runs are the only runs that I can’t keep up. So, that’s maybe only 1-2 days a week. Especially since Molly was so supportive (and of course she was, BRF’s are the best ever!) I would not let the opportunity pass! I think you can definitely do it! :)
Look at the lean, mean , running machine in the PR race–goody gravy you poured it on! You already got the desire, I think it’s a no-brainer unless you want to run an Ultra and change your desire. Come run the North Country Run in Michigan with me:)
Is there a reason Molly isn’t going for BQ as well? If she’s shooting for a 4:05 to begin with and you guys weren’t doing speedwork in preparation, can you get her on board? I thought I had given up the BQ chase and last year I convinced a friend to go for it with me (3:45 goal time). We had a coach put together a training program and both followed it diligently. The fun (or pain) was really in the training and knowing someone else was enduring it with you. Maybe try a few tempo runs or some trackwork together and see if she can be convinced. Or have Molly call me because I think I can talk anyone into a race :)
Definitely go for it!! Seriously, if you are asking the tribe about this…you already knew what our answer would be, so you must really want it, deep down. How could we all not cheer for you and encourage you onward?! Just do it!
Two words – HELLLZZZ YEAH!!!!!
Wow, I am right there with you. I think I could have written this post! Same qualifying time. My recent half PR was 1:51. My last BQ attempts were 3:59, 4:00. My husband has continuously encouraged me to keep trying, and is now my coach for this round of training. He also told me I’d have to leave my (slower) running buddy behind for my “serious” runs. What’s a girl to do?? We worked out my plan that we could still run together for either my recovery runs, or for a portion of my long runs, but I have to keep the rest of the plan headed for my goal. That works for me :) Good luck on your efforts. But I think I’ll cry a little harder if you make it and I don’t!! haha
SBS, you know my answer. GO FOR IT!! Live the life!
Go for it! You can do it!
Go for it!
I’m going to be a nay-sayer and disagree with everyone that has posted so far.
The fact that you are asking us for advice tells me that your heart isn’t into it. You will be thinking of Molly on every run that you would normally be together, and perhaps even start to dread speed-work or tempo runs in which you have to go without your buddy.
I realize that we are all getting older and speed is traditionally gone as we age, but you already BQ’d and ran Boston. Do you really want to do it again???
If the answer is yes, then go for it!
Victoria is my hometown race. The course is “undulating” and the scenery is beautiful. If you want that feeling you will work for the reward. :)
I say go for it! Molly is behind you, and it’s not as though you won’t be able to do ANY training runs with her.
Maybe think about it this way: Imagine the race is over and ask yourself what you would regret more–not running it with Molly or not trying to BQ?
Wow, been seriously debating this in my head for you. Rather than tell you what you should do, I’m going to have you ask yourself the following questions:1. Do you want to qualify for the Boston marathon, for the pride, bragging rights, etc., or do you want to RUN the Boston marathon?
2. What will be the best memory for you after the Victoria marathon? Achieving BQ or sharing the experience with Molly?
3. Do you really think this is the only chance that you’ll be able to do it? You can always train and run the Victoria marathon, and then set your sights on next Spring on a “fast” course. Or, you could wait until you age into the next age group BQ times (4:00)
4. And here is the really tough one. Is it just about getting 3:55, or if you really want to run the Boston marathon, don’t you have to get at least 3:52 to get into the race? Is that possible? Isn’t that your marathon PR?
Sorry, just have to throw those questions out there. Just think about it. I do have to say that, knowing you, if you set your mind to it, you will achieve your goal. You are in a good place right now with your running. You feel strong and confident. So, barring any unforeseen circumstances (weather, injury, illness)you will be able to set your goal of BQ. Tough decision though!!
Hmm, that’s a tough one! I would go with your gut – what will make you happier?
1. Pushing yourself for the satisfaction of the BQ
OR
2. Soaking up the time with Molly
I think you’ll find satisfaction in whichever you choose!
What is it about Boston? Just when you think you’ve been there, done that it sucks you back in! I say if sweet Molly has given you the thumbs up you go for it. You can still do training runs with her. Or do what I used to do with my beloved Monica – start off together; separate for tempo or speed work; join back up for the cool down portion.
And – hint, hint, wink, wink – I’m game to work with you on some of your paced runs. Assuming you don’t leave me in the dust as well.
Best of luck which ever route you take!
If Molly says “yes” then I say go for it! it isn’t like you have to give up her friendship forever to qualify for Boston…..that wouldn’t be an acceptable trade off!
There may another option…
Like, doing a downhill race (St George, Big Cottonwood, surely there are other big downhill races outside of Utah?) to get a BQ? I know that altitude is involved – but if you really need to push past the bubble of 3:55 to get in (like 3:52) you might need that downhill assist?
As far as Molly time – since marathon running (and half marathons too, which is where my experience is) is a mostly solo experience, maybe the mental prep of running some of the training runs solo will be a benefit? I say this b/c I used to be a 100% solo runner, but now most of my runs have a buddy. When I end up not having anyone to run with, it makes me more mentally tough, I swear (and the runs-with-dog count for solo – she doesn’t laugh or talk back, but she’s great at pulling me along, too and loves speedwork).
Just wanted to provide other food for thought for you. St George is in October, so you could still train for it, in addition to Victoria. Though you’d have to do a little work to get in to the race.
Good luck, whatever you decide!!! There are no wrong answers.
I am hoping my first marathon effort (this Spring) will land me in Boston 2015, so I want you to train for it, and we can look forward to saying hello in Hopkinton.
Exactly what I was going to say. If you have to ask…
Find a local/small/flat spring marathon and qualify this spring. If you don’t qualify then you know you need to ramp it up and qualify this fall. I you do qualify this spring then you can spend the summer having fun running with your buddy.
Don’t think, just go. Go for the BQ!
I’m training to qualify for Boston this year. I’ll need a 3:55 or better too. So obviously I say “Go for it!!!”
You definitely should go for the BQ! Looking forward to running it this year myself!
Will you regret it if you DON’T try? Will you feel great if you choose to stick with your original plan and run with Molly in Victoria, or will you always be thinking “what if…?” I think the answer to your dilemma lies in your answer to that question. I’m sure you’ll rock it whatever you decide to do!
Run with Molly, have fun in Victoria, then pedal to the metal in November and run CIM in December to qualify. Ta-da!
As someone who is working to qualify for Boston in the sub 3:30 category (I have never even broken 5 hours) and a Boston local…I say GO FOR IT!!!! What is the harm in trying Sarah? What is there to lose? And the best part is that Molly sounds like she will be there to cheer you on.
I understand the challenge, but you make it sound like you’re planning to retire after this year. If you had never run Boston, I would say push for it. But it sounds like you’re in a good groove with your BRF, and you could train, have fun and still race with joy, without all that pressure. Remember, you can always BQ later, in another age group, too! (My goal, this year, was to go sub-4, at age 54. Didn’t quite make it, but I did BQ anyway. (Though probably not by enough to actually get in.) if never get into Boston, I know there can be lots of great memories in other races.
Not going to give advice, but as I live in Victoria, I can guarantee a great race whether your are busting for a BQ, or taking it all in with a BRF. The Victoria marathon route is a amazingly scenic, with lots of ocean-side kilometers, and some pretty gentle hills. The spectators are amazing, it is s super well organized race, and good chance for great weather that time of year!
Will you look back as ask yourself, ‘what if?’ If you don’t try? Or will you look back and say ‘if only’ with regards to missing training with Molly?
I say skip-it. Boston will always be there but those times when marathon training with a BRF – when you’re both healthy, have the desire, have the childcare arrangements etc – are rare. Focus on Boston for next year. How many years until you get another 5 minute qualifying cushion? Maybe save it for then?
Go for Boston!
Eww. I KNOW that inner voice SO well that dangles the Boston goal in front of you. In all reality, I would look at your year and ask how much stress the whole training regimen would add? That’s quite a commitment. Would it be motivating to have that goal or would it be more of a burden (and consider after that if you didn’t qualify…would you still be proud of your effort?)? Are you willing to rearrange all your typical BRF training to do it? IF that inner voice is still enthusiastic after those questions, then go for it and go for it BIG!