For Whom the Dogs Bark

Agreed about the calculators - I have run 2 half marathons around 1:30 - the rule of thumb is to double and add 10 minutes - that would be a 3:10 for me. Even if I double and add 20 minutes I still have not cracked that time which is a 3:20.

DH, are we doing something wrong or are the calculators just off for everybody?

A seasoned runner that I know and run with runs about a 19:00 5k and a 1:30 half - much like me. She trains about the same as well. She runs 3:12-3:18 range and she has been running marathons for years so she has lots of practice. I think so much comes down to training, weather, etc. but most of all is the mental toughness-the ability to plow through when all your mind wants to do is stop. This is what I need the most work on. I am pretty sure I have the fitness to run a 3:20 - I just need to believe it and not give up at the end. I think most well trained runners can get through 20 with no problem - it's the last 6 that defines one's race. It is of course is the hardest part.

That could be part of it I guess. Once I throw up I throw in the towell, but the ultra guys just consider it part of the package. I should probably get tougher. I'm going to try this plan for a few weeks and see what happens. Richmond is a bonus race, so if something doesn't work no big deal.

My friend and fellow runner thinks we put way too much pressure on ourselves to BQ.

A few runners have told me that their best races were the ones that they just ran with no pressure. My best 1/2 was when I showed up with no goal whatsoever. I met up with my friend and we just came up with a goal on the spot and I ran a 1:29 - and that was 2 years ago on a lot less training. I am going to try this on my next marathon - go in using it as mental toughness exercise - just to go and see how well I can do without putting too much "I gotta qualify" pressure on myself. I know it will come sooner or later.

BTW - did you see that Boston 2011 registration closed yesterday in less than 18 hours?! That means we have at least 2 more marathon chances until 2012 registration opens next fall.

There is a lot to that I think. A marathon is not something you have to get up for like a basketball game. You just go out and do it, the more relaxed you are the better you will do. And yeah, can't believe the Boston situation, they have to do something. I think the New York Marathon model might be better, very aggressive qualifying time (15 minutes faster than Boston across the board) but a lottery too so that regular runners can participate if they are willing to keep trying.