As 2010 came to a close, I began to reflect on what I had accomplished throughout the year and what I hoped to accomplish in 2011. It didn't take me long to figure out what my greatest goal and challenge would be for the new year. I began running in early 2008 and have kept it up for the last couple of years. Like most people, I go through periods where I will run consistently and then others where I won't run at all. I tell myself every October that next year will be the year I take on the marathon. Yet without fail, I always have something come up or make excuses to why I can't. Well, 2011 is the year all of the procrastination will end!
On February 23rd, I signed myself up for the biggest challenge of my life: the Marine Corps Marathon (MCM). It will be a gorgeous, but grueling, 26.2 miles through the most beautiful cities in America! The course will begin at Arlington National Cemetery and take us through parts of Arlington and Washington DC before taking us to the finish line at the Marine Corps War Memorial.
Some people have asked me why I chose the MCM for my first marathon. My simple reply is "Why wouldn't I choose the MCM for my first marathon?" Not only is the race known as "the people's marathon" but also my grandfather was a Marine that served during Korean War. I will never forget his comedic and sad stories of boot camp and the war. Most recently, one of my best friends, Matt, was deployed to Afghanistan. I can't think of a better way to honor those Marines, and service members from all of the branches, than taking on the challenge of the marathon.
This will not be an easy task. I am bound to have great days and other days where my ankle will swell to the size of Texas. It will all be part of the fun I guess. Throughout my training, I plan to tackle the Army 10 Miler and several of the MCM series races including the Irish 10k, Crossroads 17.75K and the Marine Corp Historic Half. All of which will be documented here. So I hope you will follow and cheer me on through this chaotic but exciting journey. Let the training begin!!
