WSER Training Update (Feb/March)

I cannot believe we are over half way through March so I figured I'd put together some training updates/highlights so far.  

In February I had the chance to go out to California and had some great runs with HILLS!  I was so excited for the chance to get some real hills, I kind of overdid it. While it might not have been the best decision for my leg, it was so good for my soul.  Long run day I went from our hotel up to Griffith Observatory over to the Hollywood sign and back down.  The rest of the week, I spent runs in Runyon Canyon.  Enjoy some pics :) 

Runyon Canyon

Heading back from Hollywood sign

Heading up to Griffith Observatory

On the way to Hollywood Sign

Made it to the sign

Running the loop at Runyon

After a few days of taking it easy, I got right back to my normal runs and then really felt the leg flare up the day after my scheduled long run for the week (20+ miles).  I had to majorly scale back my training to deal with the leg.  I was thankfully able to keep my run streak going, but took two weeks with short/easy runs to recover.  This past week I was able to build up a bit of mileage to prep for the Paleozoic Trail Run. 

Northerly Island Run

With WSER being the main goal for the year, I decided to drop down to the 25k for the Paleozoic Trail Run.  I can happily say that I was able to run the 25k with zero leg pain.  I told myself that if I started to feel anything amiss, I would drop out (even though it was my 10th Paleozoic).  Thankfully, the day went really well and was so much fun.

Now that I think my leg is on the mend, I'll slowly continue to build mileage and fitness.  I keep reminding myself to work on being as prepared as possible, while also staying healthy.  :) Next up is the Columbus half marathon with my dear friend and cousin, Lindsay.  

Getting into Western States

If you've known me in any running capacity, you've probably heard about my goal of getting into and running Western States Endurance Run.  Well, I got in!  I figured it was the perfect time to get back in here to write down my thoughts and feelings while training for this race that, to be completely honest, scares the shit out of me.  

I have been qualifying and putting my name in the lottery for years, but on the lottery day I would cross my fingers and pray I wouldn't get picked.  I just didn't feel "ready".  What does that even mean anyway?  Cut to this past year.  I ran Mohican for my qualifier and had a pretty good day (3rd place female...woohoo!).  So of course, I put in for the lottery.  

I had 16 of the 41k+ tickets.   I started getting "congrats" and "I'm so happy for you" messages while in the frozen section. I was pulled number 32 and I was actually in the grocery store when it happend 🤦.  I was planning on watching the livestream but figured I had time because "there's no way one of my 16 tickets will get pulled, especially not early".  I couldn't believe it.  I rushed home and sure enough: Jeni Goodwin from Chicago is IN for the 2023 running of the WSER.  

I was elated and properly freaked out.  You know when you've been wanting something for so long, and then you get a glimpse at it, your chance to really make it happen... it's exciting but scary.  (If you listen to the podcast We Can Do Hard Things, it's called "scited" when you're scared but also excited)  What if I get all the way out there and fail?  Am I really a "runner"?  What was I thinking?  I quickly got reassuring messages from family and friends that this has been the goal. I can do this, and I won't have to do it alone.  

If you know me, whether in a running capacity or not,  you know I'm what people call "a planner".  I like things laid out and organized. I LOVE checklists, spreadsheets, color coded calendars, anything and everything to track.  It grounds me, it settles my anxious brain.  And with a proper plan, it sets you up for success.  I have spent time each week working on "the WSER plan".  This has included flights, hotels, prep races, training plans, etc.  I want to get to the starting line of WSER with the best possible chance for a great outcome. 

So over the next six months, I'm pop on here and share updates on my preparation and training.  I'm not a talented writer or runner, but I'll be open and honest about how I'm working my way to the start line of WSER.  I know there will be ups and downs, but it's going to be one grand adventure and I would love to share it with you.