I usually write a race plan prior to each marathon. In doing so, it helps me to think about how I want my race day to play out. It’s more than just the finish line goal; it’s about the whole experience. Putting it down has helped me to get into the right frame of mind for race day. My race plan for Napa Valley 2004 was, by far, the best race plan that I have written to date. It also lead to my best marathon performance so far. I hope you all will enjoy reading it.
I can honestly say that I’ve been in marathon training for the past two years. I’ve gotten stronger, smarter in my training, and tougher. I’m also more dedicated to my goal – that is to run my next marathon (Napa Valley Marathon 2004) in less than three hours and 45 minutes. This must be an official finish time. I’ve run a 1:48 half-marathon and 38.33 minute 8K. The pace of these runs is much faster than I need for Boston Qualification. I am confidant that I can and will achieve this goal on March 7th, 2004.
The Saturday prior to the race will be fun and relaxing. Tom and I will leave the kids in the care of my Stepfather. He will arrive early, as he always does, which will allow us to be on the road by 10:30 AM. We will have an easy drive to the hotel, and then the expo. We will have great weather for the entire weekend and both will be feeling healthy and rested. During the day, we will be free to meet up with friends, hear guest speakers at the expo, sight see, or just relax. At dinner we will have a healthy, carbo-loading meal that will be motivating and fun. We will end the day in the hotel, and I will be able to do some meditation and visualization in preparation for my race. This will set the energy for a successful run. I will be aware of the attention from friends, family, and even those who I don’t know, and be in a state where I can handle the attention easily. I will use my tools to create my race space.
On race day I will be physically and mentally ready to tackle the Napa Valley Marathon coarse. I will have all my equipment on hand and available as I need it along the race coarse. I will have plenty of fluids available without having to carry my own. I will drink adequate amounts without compromising my race finish time. My nourishments will be available and I will take them with ease. (I will have no problems with opening packages, or other problems.) My body will feel strong and prepared. My legs, back, and entire body will feel good throughout. My mind will be focused and positive before, during, and after race. I will hit my miles at 8:30 to 8:35 minutes/mile pace and congratulation myself by acknowledging my success with each passing mile.
This marathon is more than a physical event for me, it is also a spiritual event. It’s a joint effort of spirit and body. I will do it and have enjoyed the journey. I will qualify for the Boston Marathon by running the Napa Valley Marathon, on March 7th, 2004, in less than 3 hours and 45 minutes. At the finish line, I will be greeted by hugs and kisses for Tom. He did say, “You can have anything that you want; you just have to want it bad enough.” I do.