2012 Begins…

As 2012 begins it’s natural to reflect on the lessons learned in 2011.  For me, that lesson surely has to be patience.  In 2011 I was so amped to get back to the form that saw me PR the Richmond Half that I foolishly jumped right into another full-throttle half-marathon training block, only to piss-off anger my IT band.  It was a painful and long lesson, but hopefully it’s been learned. 

 

My focus this year is well thought out training, a good slate of races that I’m excited about, and chasing a handful (not my usual bucket load) of PRs.  I saw progress at the end of 2011 where I broke 1:30 in the Philly Half, prior to the wedding.  It wasn’t perfect training and I had a poor base, so all things considered, a strong effort.  I faded hard in the closing miles, but I attributed that to my lack of mileage.  After the half we threw in a handful of painful 5Ks, but I was able to come within shouting distance of my old times and even snagged an age group 2nd. 

The picture at right is of me at the Jingle all the Way 8K where I ran a smart, and restrained 5 miles.  No PRs, no knee pain, and no regrets.  Below are a pair of shots from the Goblin Gallop 5K where I managed to finish a cold, but happy second for my age group.  I’m looking forward to really enjoying 2012 and all it’s going to bring (8 weddings, 1 year with my beautiful wife, a return to Tri’s, and a whole bunch of exciting unknowns).  Here’s to making each day count!

 

                      

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