So it's Week 7, and it's been quite a ride so far. We're about 1/3 of the way through training, and I can't believe what my body has been able to do! I never thought I'd see the day I would be able to put up 8 miles (granted, it was a run/walk, but still!), and I did yesterday. And today I am stiff, but I feel pretty good. That's just mind blowing to me. And I can honestly say that I wouldn't be where I am without the coaching team and fellow teammates from Chicago Endurance Sports.
When I decided to tackle this crazy goal, I asked my marathoner friends who I should train with. As part of our American Cancer Society program, we got free training from either CARA or CES. Every single one who has gone through a training program said to train with CES. I was skeptical and intimidated; all of these people were multiple marathoners, some even triathletes (all the way to the Ironman!), and I wasn't sure I was in their class of athlete at all. But I took the advice of the veterans and signed up. I arrived on the first day wondering if I was out of my league. The group in Lincoln Square was super fit and seasoned. They knew each other well and congratulated one another on doing Chicago again this year. I was nervous and intimidated. I just wanted my first time out to not be a disaster/embarrassment. (Long story short: it was!)
But as the weeks have gone by and the runs have gotten longer, I have realized some things. This group--the trainers, the athletes (of which I now count myself!), the pacers--they are undoubtedly the most amazing people I have ever met. They are supportive, friendly, welcoming, and encouraging. They celebrate all successes, no matter how small. They lift up those who are struggling physically, emotionally, mentally (I've been in all three of those places), and they make you feel like you can do anything. I have met people who are newbies like me who have never run farther than a 5K in a race, and people who are on the 40+ marathon of their career. I've seen all body types, paces, skill sets, and abilities in my Lincoln Square group. I have learned so much from runners who have done this before and want everyone new to succeed. They've given advice on nutrition, hydration, race day prep, their general feelings during race days of the past, and how to overcome the gremlins in our minds that tell us that we can't do it. The coaches have all reached out to help with any questions we have, and have given great advice no magazine article will tell you. The LS coaches have asked me how my hip is doing and encouraged me through bad runs. They have all treated me as though they're my personal trainers rather than coaching hundreds of people in our location. (There are over 1200 runners in the entire program in 4 locations!) And the newbies like me have shared their anxieties, stories, and enthusiasm for taking on what I think is the largest physical challenge you can personally take on. It's just us out there--no equipment, teammates, or assistance. Just our feet on the pavement cranking out those miles.
So to my marathoner friends: you were right. This was totally the way to go. I have met my new family, and they're all amazing. To those who think they want to start running (and not just marathons!), stretch to take on the triathlon or Ironman, or want to work on their open water swimming or distance biking, you must train with CES. I have no doubt at all I will finish this race in October. I have no doubt I can get my body to push farther than I ever imagined. I know these people will not let me fail. And they won't let you fail either.
(Want to donate to ACS on behalf of Team Pancakes? Click here to go to my page
and make a donation. For donations over $25, I will add your loved
one's name to my race day singlet and will run in their honor. For
donations over $100, I will dedicate one of my 26 miles to your loved
one and will send you a ribbon with the dedication after the race.
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