Friday, October 24, 2008

Twas' the night before Brush Mountain Breakdown...

I'm anxious to get this underway, to know the outcome, to see what happens. The forecast seems to have moderated a bit and the chance of rain is less than 50% for morning. Hopefully I won't be drenched in a deluge. I'm packed up, clothes are out, iPod has all the upbeat stuff with good tempos, and food is planned. I hope like heck I will sleep.

How do other people manage the anticipation/excitement/anxiety? You'd think at this point in my life with so many competitions behind me of various sorts, that I'd have it all under control. I don't remember getting this keyed up for a horse show. In part I think that is because there was always so much to think about before setting foot in the ring - preparations, grooming, braiding, schooling, etc. With running, there is none of that intermediary activity. And it's so raw. You run or you don't. It's all you. No horse as partner. Random thoughts:
  • When I hit a tough time, remember it will pass. On a run things don't stay the same, so hang in there, it will improve around the corner.
  • Just keep putting one foot in front of the other.
  • Don't worry about time, just finish and focus on how great that sense of accomplishment will feel!
  • I know and believe I can do it, so I can!
  • To even think of doing a marathon, I need to show I can do this.
  • Think of it as just a training run for the Roanoke half marathon.
  • Do the work, leave the rest to God.
  • "I must go through the valley to stand upon the mountain of God" - Third Day
  • If ultramarathon man can do 200+ miles, I can certainly do 15!