What’s the running accomplishment you achieved this year that you’re most proud of? For me, it’s just getting back to running (and racing) regularly again, but I love hearing what you guys have done. Maybe you ran a half or a full marathon for the first time, achieved a PR, or tackled something you didn’t think you could do. It doesn’t even have to be in running! Let’s celebrate it all. — Terrell
As next Wednesday is Christmas Day and next week brings the start of Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, we won’t be in your inboxes then. So from all of our friends and families to all of yours, I (along with Hollie, Carissa and Sujin) wish each and every one of you guys a very happy holiday — we will see you in the new year!
I completed a half seven weeks after donating a kidney to my best friend. It was not my fastest half by far, but it also wasn't my slowest (surprisingly). I had signed up months before I knew that she needed a kidney. I was happy just to finish!!
It was more of a walk/run but I did it! I'm signed up for another half in a few weeks which will be about thirteen weeks post-surgery. I'm thinking there will be walking in this one also!
I’m 71 YO. I’ve been running/jogging most of my adult life (started when I was 28). Never have been fast, but running/jogging has kept me sane. For several years I have wanted to complete, at least, a half marathon. My running has always been 3-4 miles 4-6 times/week. Twice I started training for a local half and both times suffered an injury or illness. This last time (November) I decided I was doing it even if I had to walk (illness, again). I walked/jogged but completed my first half marathon and hope that next year my training won’t be interrupted so that I can have a time respectable for a 71 YO woman.
My proudest running experience this year was my slowest marathon. Ran the Marine Corp Marathon on oct 27 and nothing went as planned except for how good it felt to finish. For those of you who ran or were aware, the weather was exceptionally crazy, with rain (monsoon-like at times), flooded course, the heat when the sun came out! At about mile 2 i was joined by a first timer who wanted to run with me (and my 14/min/mile pace). To make a long story shorter...she made many beginner mistakes and was underprepared. But i slowed down and stayed with her. When she started struggling at mile 12 i asked her what this meant to her. I'll respect her privacy, but just know that her reasons made a difference to me. I told her that i would not leave her and that we were going to finish together or fail together. She was not going to be alone. The "beat the bridge" pacing team passed us. However, we did finish together and i have the most beautful pictures of our joy when we got our medals. I never thought a 7 hour finish time could ever feel so rewarding. And i have a new friend!
I live in the DC area, and I didn't run MCM but the flood pics from my running buddies were insane! Most of them finished and I could not have been more impressed with all of you who finished that race. I applaud you and glad you finished strong!
My dad died in May (a former runner and cyclist). He said I must continue my running and to be brave. So I ran my half marathon 2 weeks after his death. I cried the whole 13.1 but I felt he was pushing me through it. Been running 23 years, and that was harder than last year’s ultra;(
Oh, wow -- my heart goes out to you! I can imagine that must have been a heart-breaking experience, but that you felt his support with you every step of the way. That's incredibly moving, and I'm honored you share that here.
My dad has very advanced dementia. Some days are super hard. One particularly bad day, I ran and burst into tears in the middle of my run, but kept going. I didn’t think it was possible to cry and run at the same time, but I felt better when I was done.
I am so sorry for your loss. Can't imagine whaypt you were thinking and feeling. I ran my first half marathon in 2015 4 months after my mom passed. THAT was a tough one so just don't know how you diD after 2 weeks. How did you motivate yourself and continue to eat and hydrate enough?
I made sure I sipped water at every stop as I don’t usually eat. I kept cheering myself on saying, “Jill, you got this, dad believes in you, one foot in front of the other, just keep going.” Cheri, I so wanted to collapse but my mind held strong. I had to. Thanks for your comment.
I ran 4 more half marathons this year, bringing my race total to 56. 41 of these races are either full or half marathons. I'll run 3 or 4 more next year. On a non-running note, I played guitar in front of an audience for the very first time! Stepping out of one's comfort zone is good for the soul!
I did the Flying Pig in May (I have run the Flying Pig full 5 times in the past), Indy Half at Fort Ben and the Queen Bee Half, both in October, and Indianapolis Monumental in November. I'd say the Flying Pig and the Queen Bee are great because of crowd support, but there are some wicked hills along the way.
I had 2 goals. 1.run a half marathon each month. I ran 16! 2.break 2 hours. On my birthday in September I ran a 1:57:15. I’m not an elite runner, but I was super excited to have hit the marks I set. I love running!! Thanks for a great blog!!
Merry Holidays....it was helping someone I met at a race finish her first 50k. Her face when she finished was worth staying with her even though she was much slower than me.
I was able to stay healthy and logged over 1,000 miles. Ran my first full marathon and shed 20 pounds in the process. Running taught me that I can do more than I ever thought possible. I am 58 and feel better than I have in many years. Praying that God will bless me with a marathon in under 5 hours in March 2020. Merry Christmas and happy running from the Hatfield, Arkansas running pastor.
I love that, Paul! That's my goal for next year too -- to run 1,000 miles. How'd you do it, between all your job responsibilities? How'd you manage your time to accomplish it, and was it your goal from the start of the year?
I was not sure if I could do it, but set to average 20 miles a week. Lot of early morning runs and a long one on Saturday. My goal was to run a marathon in October and knew some weight had to come off. Watched what I ate and did not push to hard for time. Slow and steady build up and some mental toughness. Running keeps my head clear and tends to focus my thoughts. It has proved invaluable in ministry.
You guys have no idea, how reading this thread helps me. Wish you all the best for 2020, wherever you may go; whatever you may do. All of us, are fighting our own battles but we must continue to power on. Cheers to all of you and Happy 2020!
Right back at ya! And what you just wrote there, plus all the other wonderful notes from everyone here today and throughout the year, are what makes writing/publishing this newsletter worthwhile. Hoping for a very happy 2020 for each and every one of you all!
I ran the Chicago Marathon this year and took 29 minutes off my NYC time from 2018. It was my 2nd marathon and my 2nd Abbott star. Running Berlin in 2020 and will hopefully run another PR! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays all.
I responded earlier, but after reading the many comments, I just had to say one more thing.
It's amazing what we overcome by running/jogging/walking. Road, trail...it doesn't matter; leader or back-of-the-packer, it doesn't matter. Injuries, loss, goals...we do it. Sometimes it's a stellar accomplishment, but we finish. Sometimes it's not pretty, but we finish. Receiving this newsletter and seeing others' feedback makes me proud to be a part of the running community. I'm 65 now and not as fast but I still have the endurance and persistence to get it done. 13.1 more miles: here I come.
May you all have a safe and blessed Christmas and New Year.
Im using a plan I found in Women Running magazine. It is a 20 week plan but I am just coming back from a major surgery and want to be kind to my body and enjoy the process !
Happy holidays to everyone! Thanks Terrell for your sharing your love of the sport with us all through this website. I’m extremely proud of the fact that I was able to do the 9+1 in NY to qualify for the marathon next year even though I live overseas. I had wanted to do this to work up to my 50th birthday next year and thankfully it happened. My proudest of it all was even though I had a setback leading into the last two races, I overcame and went full force. If I can do it, trust me, anyone can. These words are coming from someone who never ran in her life (except to catch a train/bus ... oh yeah once at my one of my son’s school event when he was much younger). I’ve been doing this now for about the past two years.
My year was a mixed bag. I only ran one race which was the Thanksgiving Day 10k. I had to cancel on the AF Marathon at the last minute due to physical issues. It has been a very busy year at work and it was hard to consider other races. On a positive note I did a 184 day streak of 698 miles. I had to stop when I got the flu and have not run for almost 3 weeks. I will get back into it very soon but the illness has really hung on and my body was tired from the streak. I am hoping to run 3 halves this in 2020. The Heart Mini in March, (Cincinnati) the Flying Pig in May (also Cincy) and the half at AF Marathon in Dayton, OH. I think that getting away from fulls will be good for me personally. But I am grateful to have done 3 in my life (in ‘16-‘18) Happy Holidays to all!!
Thank you! I have been reading them off and on and you are correct, they are. My first 3 plus years of running seriously have been fantastic. But this Summer I started having issues from a 2-1/2 year old hernia surgery and it really set me back. I am still not completely over it and my doc can’t explain why since she is not a surgeon. Anyway, I truly appreciate the encouragement and hope we do run into each other at one of the Cincy races. I live on the West side (White Oak) and do not run with a club but there is a QC Running club less than a mile from me. Happy Holidays to you as well!
You all inspire me with reading your comments and testimonials here. My biggest accomplishment this year was running my 2nd BQ time and making into the 2020 Boston marathon.
This year was my first ever marathon. I was fortunate enough to run NYC this year. It was amazing! This year I ran 1 marathon and 6 half marathons! Here's to a new year everyone!
I subscribed to half marathons.com..... 😊I finished marathon #7, Monumental Marathon in Indianapolis, but I think I the biggest difference is I changed my running stride. I was a heel striker and after a marathon last year, I decided to try to become a mid-foot striker.... a big difference. Took a few months to get used to it, but I'm glad I did it. Merry Christmas everyone
I think it is great that you list half marathons first. I have been receiving it for over 4 years now and it is constantly encouraging. I was just telling my wife last night again about some of the things Terrell and Hollie shared this week.
Chicago Marathon, without a doubt. I did not finish nearly in the time I wanted, but I FINISHED. I spent 5 days in the hospital with pancreatitis and was discharged two weeks before the marathon but I still finished it. I'll try to go back one day for "redemption" but I'm extremely proud of my result in Chicago, my first marathon ever.
I myself spent five days in the hospital with pancreatitis last February. I have had a hard time getting back, and staying, in running form. That was quite a an accomplishment to run so soon after being out of the hospital. My goal for next year is to run my first marathon. You are definitely an inspiration for me.
I like to read what others have written before writing. I was to busy this morning to respond and by the time I got around to this thread I had a bunch of reading to do. Some of you guys are pretty amazing! Anyway as for what I am most proud of it's changing my running style at age 63. I know many experts say your natural style is the best for you. I don't disagree but for me a change ended up being necessary. At age 40 before I could race my 1st master's race I ruptured a disk in my lower back. A fall from 6' on to concrete a couple years prior had left me a shell of my former self. I didn't quit but persisted and even doing fairly well leading up the what I thought would be an exciting time to be a master's runner. Didn't happen. The surgery was successful in I was able to go back to work and sleep at night but the doctor warned me to never run again. He painted a dim picture of my future as an athlete. Fast forward a few years to a man that had gained 42 lbs since the day he fell. I had taken a desk job to help keep my back under control. I guess it worked but I was pretty unset every time I looked in a full body mirror. Fast forward again to age 49. 11 years since I fell and 9 years after my surgery. My baby girl was in 7th grade and she want to run track. I was excited and told her I would get in shape and help her train. Wow what was I thinking! Anyway after 2 years I had lost 25 lbs and was running with her. I was so excited to be running it didn't bother me to be slow. Fast forward to age 54. I decided to run my first marathon. Then at 55 (and down almost 40 lbs. I ran another and qualified for Boston. I ran Boston but started out to fast and crashed and burned. Now to why I had to change my running style. Along age 59 I begin having the dreaded back relapse every one was warning me I would someday have. You see I was a heel striker and the pounding had taken it's toll. I knew I could go on so decided to work at changing my running style. I found it was not so easy and always reverted back to my natural style of being a heel striker. At age 63 (this year) I ran a 25k in Jan. and shortly afterwards begin to experience sciatica coming from swelling in my back. It was pretty bad and derailed me for a few weeks. When it finally went away I begin running again only to have it return on my third run. I then decided to become a midfoot striker and shorted and quicken my stride. I stuck with it this time and last Saturday I ran a trail 1/2 I had signed up for in March. I was 2nd master. Even though I was 6 1/2 minutes slower than I ran it 4 years ago I was one proud dude. And my back feels fine!!
I overcame plantar fasciitis. Mainly by mistake after a year of 40 minutes of exercises per day to little avail. I spent a week walking barefoot in a cold mountain Creek and it was essentially 90% better
I had a screw inserted in my left big toe due to rheumatoid arthritis. The joint wasn't strong enough and the screw went through it so I had to have it removed and a shorter one inserted. I am back running and almost back to my past times BUT with this injury, I worked on my stride and my posture when running and made improvements and working towards a half marathon in May 2020! Happy Holidays to one and all!!!!
My 26 yr old daughter and I ran our town's Turkey Trot last month wgphich our 6th straight year. I ran the best time ever. Proud moment for me d for my daughter!
Warm and humid lol, but week of whale watching (in March), visiting Pearl Harbor, eating sushi, and chilling in Hawaii then finishing with a half marathon was a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Can't recommend this itinerary enough for anyone who has not been to Hawaii...
I did two half marathons this year plus one as part of a 70.3 Ironman. In my 1st on the campus of Notre Dame I had the distinction of being the oldest participant at 70. I ran sub-two hours ( barely) but placed 2nd to a 62 year old. The age group was 60-99 ! I was most please with my overall finish of 508/1202. The 2nd half finished on the 50 yard line in ND stadium. I ran 2:00:14 and
so frustrated I did not pick up the finish pace by 14 seconds. I won my age group 70-74 and finished 332/991. I will run the distance 4 times this year and setting goal of sub-2 hr races.
My team completed Ragnar Trails Mount Rainier. By far the toughest Ragnar Trails in the US. 37% of teams who sign up DO NOT finish!! In 30 some hours I took 77,000 steps and burned over 11,000 calories on roughly 4 hours of very rough sleep and 1 actual meal. By far the hardest thing I have ever done in my life. For reference, I am a 20 year Navy veteran and a special needs parent, so I have been through very difficult things!!
I was runner 8, so I was the last runner on the team and I ran the longest leg last. Thankfully it was 6.2 miles downhill and only 2 miles uphill. The hard part was the 6.2 miles downhill was very narrow (make an L with your pinky and thumb narrow) single track. Having the entire team join me for the last 1/4 so we could all finish together was amazing (and needed!!) I honestly still can't believe we successfully did it. I don't think I felt my legs for about 3 days afterward :)
I am 54. When I was in Jr. high, the track coach recruited me for high jump (I was tall for 14). Occasionally, he had me run a race. I wasn’t very good.
My junior year in high school, I was talked into joining cross country. I was taught to keep my commitments so I didn’t quit, but after that season was over, I decided that I just wasn’t a runner.
In my mid 20s I started exercising regularly. I did aerobic classes, elliptical and brisk walks. As years went by, I would add a minute of jogging to my walks, and after many years (in my 40s), I managed to “jog” up to 5.5 miles nonstop. I still didn’t consider myself a runner, though.
Then, earlier this year my daughter ran her first half marathon, and she told me, “mom, you can do this too.” I said, “No. I’m not a runner,” but, I started to add miles to what I was still calling my “jogs.” In October, I ran my first half marathon and I never once walked! After registering for it, I started receiving emails with links to this post and I was inspired to try a full marathon. I am now training for the L. A. Marathon and last week I completed a 17.5 mile run! No stopping. No walking. 11 minute pace.
So, to finally answer your question, what I am most proud of this past year is that I now know that I am a runner.
Maria, I love this story — incredibly inspiring. Sometimes it takes other people showing us that they believe in us for us to believe in ourselves, doesn’t it?
Definitely! And this community does just that with all these amazing stories. What I realized reading these posts is that running is very individual and there is no real true definition of it. I think that maybe, I was always a runner. Not a fast one, but a runner nonetheless.
I had my first serious injury from running this year. It was an enormous disappointment and a big complication to what I was planning to achieve until the end of the year. But I am recovering -- still not reaching the half marathons -- and feeling better than before
My daughter got me started running in 2018 and I completed my first half marathon in 2019. She met me at the finish line and had already found the beer tent. I'm running my second half marathon in January (volunteering at the 5k the day before and hitting the expo afterward) and another in April (again with my daughter). Looking forward to another year of running -- just wished I'd started sooner. :) I hope everyone has a safe and healthy 2020!
Her first half marathon was the OKC Memorial in 2018 while in her last year of college. When she finished it, she said, "Dad, you should start running, too." We've had some great talks while on training runs.
I have a few items, I set a via to run 1,000 miles and I am currently at 1,140! Last year I ran 14 5ks with 7 under 21, and 2 under 20. This year I only ran 8 5ks but 7 were under 21 and 3 were under 20 so I am proud of the improvement. Focused on longer races this year. Overall this year was a horrible year personally but running kept me going, having something to be there for you was just what I needed. Running was that something this year.
Ran my 5th full marathon in the bucket list place of Banff Canada and for my 35th race in 4 years my first trail half marathon in Wilkesboro NC. At 53 with rheumatoid arthritis I refuse to slow down.
Being comfortable enough, in my own skin, to take it one run at a time. I would add that social anxiety (large crowds) is an issue for me. I've worked on that through my races and even meeting "the og's of running" in my travels. Lastly, having a forum where I get to read everyone's comments. They have both informational and inspiring! Thank you all and Happy Holidays!
I completed a half seven weeks after donating a kidney to my best friend. It was not my fastest half by far, but it also wasn't my slowest (surprisingly). I had signed up months before I knew that she needed a kidney. I was happy just to finish!!
Rhonda, you are my hero. What an amazingly selfless thing to do for a friend -- and you still ran the half seven weeks later! Wow.
It was more of a walk/run but I did it! I'm signed up for another half in a few weeks which will be about thirteen weeks post-surgery. I'm thinking there will be walking in this one also!
Walking is good, so don’t talk it down. Don’t ever feel you need to apologize because you don’t run the entire race; you’re still moving forward.
Thanks! I’m always so hard on myself. I’m learning patience and grace!
Incredible and humbling.
Thanks!!
OMG! What an amazing thing to do!
Thanks!!
I’m 71 YO. I’ve been running/jogging most of my adult life (started when I was 28). Never have been fast, but running/jogging has kept me sane. For several years I have wanted to complete, at least, a half marathon. My running has always been 3-4 miles 4-6 times/week. Twice I started training for a local half and both times suffered an injury or illness. This last time (November) I decided I was doing it even if I had to walk (illness, again). I walked/jogged but completed my first half marathon and hope that next year my training won’t be interrupted so that I can have a time respectable for a 71 YO woman.
Congratulations. At our age (I’m 70), all finish times are respectable.
Excellent!!!!
My proudest running experience this year was my slowest marathon. Ran the Marine Corp Marathon on oct 27 and nothing went as planned except for how good it felt to finish. For those of you who ran or were aware, the weather was exceptionally crazy, with rain (monsoon-like at times), flooded course, the heat when the sun came out! At about mile 2 i was joined by a first timer who wanted to run with me (and my 14/min/mile pace). To make a long story shorter...she made many beginner mistakes and was underprepared. But i slowed down and stayed with her. When she started struggling at mile 12 i asked her what this meant to her. I'll respect her privacy, but just know that her reasons made a difference to me. I told her that i would not leave her and that we were going to finish together or fail together. She was not going to be alone. The "beat the bridge" pacing team passed us. However, we did finish together and i have the most beautful pictures of our joy when we got our medals. I never thought a 7 hour finish time could ever feel so rewarding. And i have a new friend!
I love this story, Dinah. 😊
I live in the DC area, and I didn't run MCM but the flood pics from my running buddies were insane! Most of them finished and I could not have been more impressed with all of you who finished that race. I applaud you and glad you finished strong!
Awesome! So very cool that you did that.
😭
My dad died in May (a former runner and cyclist). He said I must continue my running and to be brave. So I ran my half marathon 2 weeks after his death. I cried the whole 13.1 but I felt he was pushing me through it. Been running 23 years, and that was harder than last year’s ultra;(
Oh, wow -- my heart goes out to you! I can imagine that must have been a heart-breaking experience, but that you felt his support with you every step of the way. That's incredibly moving, and I'm honored you share that here.
My dad has very advanced dementia. Some days are super hard. One particularly bad day, I ran and burst into tears in the middle of my run, but kept going. I didn’t think it was possible to cry and run at the same time, but I felt better when I was done.
Sorry for your loss.
I am so sorry for your loss. Can't imagine whaypt you were thinking and feeling. I ran my first half marathon in 2015 4 months after my mom passed. THAT was a tough one so just don't know how you diD after 2 weeks. How did you motivate yourself and continue to eat and hydrate enough?
I made sure I sipped water at every stop as I don’t usually eat. I kept cheering myself on saying, “Jill, you got this, dad believes in you, one foot in front of the other, just keep going.” Cheri, I so wanted to collapse but my mind held strong. I had to. Thanks for your comment.
Thank you for sharing that personal part of your life with us. I am sorry for your loss.
I ran 4 more half marathons this year, bringing my race total to 56. 41 of these races are either full or half marathons. I'll run 3 or 4 more next year. On a non-running note, I played guitar in front of an audience for the very first time! Stepping out of one's comfort zone is good for the soul!
Very cool, Gene! Which halfs did you run this year? (And did you have a favorite?)
I did the Flying Pig in May (I have run the Flying Pig full 5 times in the past), Indy Half at Fort Ben and the Queen Bee Half, both in October, and Indianapolis Monumental in November. I'd say the Flying Pig and the Queen Bee are great because of crowd support, but there are some wicked hills along the way.
I’m one of Cincinnati weirdos who love hills! Great job!
I had 2 goals. 1.run a half marathon each month. I ran 16! 2.break 2 hours. On my birthday in September I ran a 1:57:15. I’m not an elite runner, but I was super excited to have hit the marks I set. I love running!! Thanks for a great blog!!
That is fantastic all around!! What a fabulous birthday present! 🙌🏼
Merry Holidays....it was helping someone I met at a race finish her first 50k. Her face when she finished was worth staying with her even though she was much slower than me.
this is the BEST reply.
I was able to stay healthy and logged over 1,000 miles. Ran my first full marathon and shed 20 pounds in the process. Running taught me that I can do more than I ever thought possible. I am 58 and feel better than I have in many years. Praying that God will bless me with a marathon in under 5 hours in March 2020. Merry Christmas and happy running from the Hatfield, Arkansas running pastor.
I love that, Paul! That's my goal for next year too -- to run 1,000 miles. How'd you do it, between all your job responsibilities? How'd you manage your time to accomplish it, and was it your goal from the start of the year?
I was not sure if I could do it, but set to average 20 miles a week. Lot of early morning runs and a long one on Saturday. My goal was to run a marathon in October and knew some weight had to come off. Watched what I ate and did not push to hard for time. Slow and steady build up and some mental toughness. Running keeps my head clear and tends to focus my thoughts. It has proved invaluable in ministry.
Running a half marathon and a full marathon in the same day 59 days after getting out of rehab for drinking.
This is truly, truly awesome, Judith! You are a brave, brave warrior my friend.
Awesome for you, amazing goal accomplished both personally and running!
Wow! That is great! Thank you for sharing with us.
Awesome! Congratulations.
You guys have no idea, how reading this thread helps me. Wish you all the best for 2020, wherever you may go; whatever you may do. All of us, are fighting our own battles but we must continue to power on. Cheers to all of you and Happy 2020!
Right back at ya! And what you just wrote there, plus all the other wonderful notes from everyone here today and throughout the year, are what makes writing/publishing this newsletter worthwhile. Hoping for a very happy 2020 for each and every one of you all!
I ran the Chicago Marathon this year and took 29 minutes off my NYC time from 2018. It was my 2nd marathon and my 2nd Abbott star. Running Berlin in 2020 and will hopefully run another PR! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays all.
How cool is that?! What was your 1st Abbott star? (And good luck in Berlin next year!)
New York. Berlin will be my 3rd so I have to go for all six, right?
Of course! It goes without saying 😊
I responded earlier, but after reading the many comments, I just had to say one more thing.
It's amazing what we overcome by running/jogging/walking. Road, trail...it doesn't matter; leader or back-of-the-packer, it doesn't matter. Injuries, loss, goals...we do it. Sometimes it's a stellar accomplishment, but we finish. Sometimes it's not pretty, but we finish. Receiving this newsletter and seeing others' feedback makes me proud to be a part of the running community. I'm 65 now and not as fast but I still have the endurance and persistence to get it done. 13.1 more miles: here I come.
May you all have a safe and blessed Christmas and New Year.
What a humble and beautful posting. Thank you and have a wonderful holiday.
Yes! Amen! Thank you for putting words to the heart of all our experiences and the community we form.
Entering and finishing my first marathon at age 62!
Merry Christmas-I lost 11 lbs and am trying hard to lose 5 more. This makes me run faster!!
That's awesome, Lana!
Thank you.
congrats! running is the best way to lose weight imo!
Completed 14 half marathons plus 18 other races at age 69.
unbelievable!!!!
I love this thread Terrell. I'm really excited that I was able to run the Everest Marathon this year!
Thanks so much, Carissa! For all of you guys, if you haven't read about her amazing marathon at Mount Everest earlier this year, here's where you can: https://halfmarathons.substack.com/p/what-running-the-everest-marathon-aa7
That's a thing?! I must look into this.
It is!! I can't recommend it enough!!!
I have signed up for my first 13.1 . I am on the from the couch to running a 13.1 plan. I am currently on week 2 :)
Really glad to hear that, JoEllen! Which race are you training for? And are you using a Galloway plan?
Im using a plan I found in Women Running magazine. It is a 20 week plan but I am just coming back from a major surgery and want to be kind to my body and enjoy the process !
Awesome!
Completed 50K - 3700ft trail run to mark my 50th birthday
Wow, which race was this/where was it?
Thank you!Lake Chobot Ultramarathon- Castro Valley, CA on Nov 9.
Pretty tough course. Felt so good after finishing!
Happy holidays to everyone! Thanks Terrell for your sharing your love of the sport with us all through this website. I’m extremely proud of the fact that I was able to do the 9+1 in NY to qualify for the marathon next year even though I live overseas. I had wanted to do this to work up to my 50th birthday next year and thankfully it happened. My proudest of it all was even though I had a setback leading into the last two races, I overcame and went full force. If I can do it, trust me, anyone can. These words are coming from someone who never ran in her life (except to catch a train/bus ... oh yeah once at my one of my son’s school event when he was much younger). I’ve been doing this now for about the past two years.
YES! Agree Judy! Thanks Terrell👏🏻
I overcame a series of setbacks through the year to finish my marathon training and run it. The race itself felt more like a victory lap than a race.
Makes it even sweeter, doesnt it?
I ran 4 races this year (two half marathons, a 10-miler, and a 10K). I PR'd and placed in my age group in 3 of them!
Running the USA Women’s Half Marathon in Palm Desert without any stops. And, placing 2nd in my age group; 55-59 in a 10k.
My year was a mixed bag. I only ran one race which was the Thanksgiving Day 10k. I had to cancel on the AF Marathon at the last minute due to physical issues. It has been a very busy year at work and it was hard to consider other races. On a positive note I did a 184 day streak of 698 miles. I had to stop when I got the flu and have not run for almost 3 weeks. I will get back into it very soon but the illness has really hung on and my body was tired from the streak. I am hoping to run 3 halves this in 2020. The Heart Mini in March, (Cincinnati) the Flying Pig in May (also Cincy) and the half at AF Marathon in Dayton, OH. I think that getting away from fulls will be good for me personally. But I am grateful to have done 3 in my life (in ‘16-‘18) Happy Holidays to all!!
Hang in there, Ben! Keep reading some of these posts and you will be energized. Happy holidays to you, my friend. See you at the Pig.
Thank you! I have been reading them off and on and you are correct, they are. My first 3 plus years of running seriously have been fantastic. But this Summer I started having issues from a 2-1/2 year old hernia surgery and it really set me back. I am still not completely over it and my doc can’t explain why since she is not a surgeon. Anyway, I truly appreciate the encouragement and hope we do run into each other at one of the Cincy races. I live on the West side (White Oak) and do not run with a club but there is a QC Running club less than a mile from me. Happy Holidays to you as well!
You all inspire me with reading your comments and testimonials here. My biggest accomplishment this year was running my 2nd BQ time and making into the 2020 Boston marathon.
Congratulations on making Boston. That is an amazing achievement. You are now part of an elite club. Good luck.
Thank you! Definitely once in a lifetime/bucket list deal for me. It’s my victory lap and then back to halfs for me.
This year was my first ever marathon. I was fortunate enough to run NYC this year. It was amazing! This year I ran 1 marathon and 6 half marathons! Here's to a new year everyone!
Impressive! Way to go!
I subscribed to half marathons.com..... 😊I finished marathon #7, Monumental Marathon in Indianapolis, but I think I the biggest difference is I changed my running stride. I was a heel striker and after a marathon last year, I decided to try to become a mid-foot striker.... a big difference. Took a few months to get used to it, but I'm glad I did it. Merry Christmas everyone
I think it is great that you list half marathons first. I have been receiving it for over 4 years now and it is constantly encouraging. I was just telling my wife last night again about some of the things Terrell and Hollie shared this week.
I literally stumbled across this group early this year and have enjoyed it ever since
That is how I got started, but I tell every runner I meet about it. Glad you’re here Barry!
Mine would be training with the neighbors 11 year old son for his first 2 races and watching him learn to love the sport.
Chicago Marathon, without a doubt. I did not finish nearly in the time I wanted, but I FINISHED. I spent 5 days in the hospital with pancreatitis and was discharged two weeks before the marathon but I still finished it. I'll try to go back one day for "redemption" but I'm extremely proud of my result in Chicago, my first marathon ever.
That is dedication right there. I'd be extremely proud of that too, John! Hope/glad you're better now.
Definitely better now, thank you! They took great care of me.
I myself spent five days in the hospital with pancreatitis last February. I have had a hard time getting back, and staying, in running form. That was quite a an accomplishment to run so soon after being out of the hospital. My goal for next year is to run my first marathon. You are definitely an inspiration for me.
If you can believe it, you can achieve it. I have faith in you- you can do it!!
Thank you so much for your comment!
Thank you - that means a whole lot to me!
I like to read what others have written before writing. I was to busy this morning to respond and by the time I got around to this thread I had a bunch of reading to do. Some of you guys are pretty amazing! Anyway as for what I am most proud of it's changing my running style at age 63. I know many experts say your natural style is the best for you. I don't disagree but for me a change ended up being necessary. At age 40 before I could race my 1st master's race I ruptured a disk in my lower back. A fall from 6' on to concrete a couple years prior had left me a shell of my former self. I didn't quit but persisted and even doing fairly well leading up the what I thought would be an exciting time to be a master's runner. Didn't happen. The surgery was successful in I was able to go back to work and sleep at night but the doctor warned me to never run again. He painted a dim picture of my future as an athlete. Fast forward a few years to a man that had gained 42 lbs since the day he fell. I had taken a desk job to help keep my back under control. I guess it worked but I was pretty unset every time I looked in a full body mirror. Fast forward again to age 49. 11 years since I fell and 9 years after my surgery. My baby girl was in 7th grade and she want to run track. I was excited and told her I would get in shape and help her train. Wow what was I thinking! Anyway after 2 years I had lost 25 lbs and was running with her. I was so excited to be running it didn't bother me to be slow. Fast forward to age 54. I decided to run my first marathon. Then at 55 (and down almost 40 lbs. I ran another and qualified for Boston. I ran Boston but started out to fast and crashed and burned. Now to why I had to change my running style. Along age 59 I begin having the dreaded back relapse every one was warning me I would someday have. You see I was a heel striker and the pounding had taken it's toll. I knew I could go on so decided to work at changing my running style. I found it was not so easy and always reverted back to my natural style of being a heel striker. At age 63 (this year) I ran a 25k in Jan. and shortly afterwards begin to experience sciatica coming from swelling in my back. It was pretty bad and derailed me for a few weeks. When it finally went away I begin running again only to have it return on my third run. I then decided to become a midfoot striker and shorted and quicken my stride. I stuck with it this time and last Saturday I ran a trail 1/2 I had signed up for in March. I was 2nd master. Even though I was 6 1/2 minutes slower than I ran it 4 years ago I was one proud dude. And my back feels fine!!
Inspiring!
For me it's running a 50k trail run for the first time and smashing my previous personal bests for the 2 half marathons I ran in the fall.
All of this after having hernia surgery in March.
Soldier through and happy holidays!
January 2019 I Ran a Marathon in Antarctica and 3 days later one in Chile Trip of a lifetime!
Three days?! You are who I wanna be when I grow up, Coco! 😊
after breaking my ankle in late April, rehabbing and coming back strong to run 3 half marathons!
Wow, Jennifer -- a lot of people would never even have tried to come back after an injury like that. Seriously impressive!
I’m proud that I completed my 25th state and 50th half marathon.
I overcame plantar fasciitis. Mainly by mistake after a year of 40 minutes of exercises per day to little avail. I spent a week walking barefoot in a cold mountain Creek and it was essentially 90% better
That is amazing, Paul -- did walk for a certain period of time every day in the cold creek? How did you even alight on the idea?
Oh Paul! Feel for you. Had PF too which seemed to last forever but it did go away.
Finishing the Marine Corps Marathon. Definitely not my best race but was glad to finish it.
that one is on my bucket list.
We had terrible weather this year, but I still enjoyed it. The race is very well run.
Totally worth it. Was on my list, too and finally did it. Go for it.
I had a screw inserted in my left big toe due to rheumatoid arthritis. The joint wasn't strong enough and the screw went through it so I had to have it removed and a shorter one inserted. I am back running and almost back to my past times BUT with this injury, I worked on my stride and my posture when running and made improvements and working towards a half marathon in May 2020! Happy Holidays to one and all!!!!
amping up my speed and staying injury free. one is work and one is a little bit of luck!
My 26 yr old daughter and I ran our town's Turkey Trot last month wgphich our 6th straight year. I ran the best time ever. Proud moment for me d for my daughter!
Completed 5 half marathons this year, including a fantastic trip to Maui!
That's huge! How was Maui?
Warm and humid lol, but week of whale watching (in March), visiting Pearl Harbor, eating sushi, and chilling in Hawaii then finishing with a half marathon was a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Can't recommend this itinerary enough for anyone who has not been to Hawaii...
I did two half marathons this year plus one as part of a 70.3 Ironman. In my 1st on the campus of Notre Dame I had the distinction of being the oldest participant at 70. I ran sub-two hours ( barely) but placed 2nd to a 62 year old. The age group was 60-99 ! I was most please with my overall finish of 508/1202. The 2nd half finished on the 50 yard line in ND stadium. I ran 2:00:14 and
so frustrated I did not pick up the finish pace by 14 seconds. I won my age group 70-74 and finished 332/991. I will run the distance 4 times this year and setting goal of sub-2 hr races.
Wow, Dave! Seriously in awe here.
My team completed Ragnar Trails Mount Rainier. By far the toughest Ragnar Trails in the US. 37% of teams who sign up DO NOT finish!! In 30 some hours I took 77,000 steps and burned over 11,000 calories on roughly 4 hours of very rough sleep and 1 actual meal. By far the hardest thing I have ever done in my life. For reference, I am a 20 year Navy veteran and a special needs parent, so I have been through very difficult things!!
You have for sure, Chris! How did it feel at the end of it? Could you even believe you'd done it?
I was runner 8, so I was the last runner on the team and I ran the longest leg last. Thankfully it was 6.2 miles downhill and only 2 miles uphill. The hard part was the 6.2 miles downhill was very narrow (make an L with your pinky and thumb narrow) single track. Having the entire team join me for the last 1/4 so we could all finish together was amazing (and needed!!) I honestly still can't believe we successfully did it. I don't think I felt my legs for about 3 days afterward :)
Ran San Diego 1/2 dedicated each mile to someone so they would be blessed every step -running happy in TX deb stuart
I am 54. When I was in Jr. high, the track coach recruited me for high jump (I was tall for 14). Occasionally, he had me run a race. I wasn’t very good.
My junior year in high school, I was talked into joining cross country. I was taught to keep my commitments so I didn’t quit, but after that season was over, I decided that I just wasn’t a runner.
In my mid 20s I started exercising regularly. I did aerobic classes, elliptical and brisk walks. As years went by, I would add a minute of jogging to my walks, and after many years (in my 40s), I managed to “jog” up to 5.5 miles nonstop. I still didn’t consider myself a runner, though.
Then, earlier this year my daughter ran her first half marathon, and she told me, “mom, you can do this too.” I said, “No. I’m not a runner,” but, I started to add miles to what I was still calling my “jogs.” In October, I ran my first half marathon and I never once walked! After registering for it, I started receiving emails with links to this post and I was inspired to try a full marathon. I am now training for the L. A. Marathon and last week I completed a 17.5 mile run! No stopping. No walking. 11 minute pace.
So, to finally answer your question, what I am most proud of this past year is that I now know that I am a runner.
Maria, I love this story — incredibly inspiring. Sometimes it takes other people showing us that they believe in us for us to believe in ourselves, doesn’t it?
Definitely! And this community does just that with all these amazing stories. What I realized reading these posts is that running is very individual and there is no real true definition of it. I think that maybe, I was always a runner. Not a fast one, but a runner nonetheless.
Completing my first marathon - New York! Biggest accomplishment of my life so far
Congrats! What a way to challenge yourself!
I had my first serious injury from running this year. It was an enormous disappointment and a big complication to what I was planning to achieve until the end of the year. But I am recovering -- still not reaching the half marathons -- and feeling better than before
Really glad to hear you're feeling better, Marcelo -- how did your injury happen?
My daughter got me started running in 2018 and I completed my first half marathon in 2019. She met me at the finish line and had already found the beer tent. I'm running my second half marathon in January (volunteering at the 5k the day before and hitting the expo afterward) and another in April (again with my daughter). Looking forward to another year of running -- just wished I'd started sooner. :) I hope everyone has a safe and healthy 2020!
My daughter got me started too! We influence our kids, and then they do it right back.
I love hearing that, Mike — I hope to run like that with my son when he gets old enough too.
Her first half marathon was the OKC Memorial in 2018 while in her last year of college. When she finished it, she said, "Dad, you should start running, too." We've had some great talks while on training runs.
I have a few items, I set a via to run 1,000 miles and I am currently at 1,140! Last year I ran 14 5ks with 7 under 21, and 2 under 20. This year I only ran 8 5ks but 7 were under 21 and 3 were under 20 so I am proud of the improvement. Focused on longer races this year. Overall this year was a horrible year personally but running kept me going, having something to be there for you was just what I needed. Running was that something this year.
Mine is completing another half marathon after having twins in July! I felt so good running again. Excited to try to keep at it (semi) regularly.
Now THAT is amazing, Emily!!!!
Ran my 5th full marathon in the bucket list place of Banff Canada and for my 35th race in 4 years my first trail half marathon in Wilkesboro NC. At 53 with rheumatoid arthritis I refuse to slow down.
Cheers to you!!!!!
Being comfortable enough, in my own skin, to take it one run at a time. I would add that social anxiety (large crowds) is an issue for me. I've worked on that through my races and even meeting "the og's of running" in my travels. Lastly, having a forum where I get to read everyone's comments. They have both informational and inspiring! Thank you all and Happy Holidays!