23 miles training run – Physically and Mentally tough

Start: 6:30am at Central Park, Upper East Side

Temp: 57 °F

Thanks to Gautham again who not only convinced and motivated me to join the run, but ran with me the whole distance. Even when I was slowing down due to tiredness and pain he ran alongside and kept encouraging me. I finally completed the 23 miles run. It was physically and mentally tough, but I am glad I finished the run. The weather helped as it was not too warm.

With one more long distance run (26 miles) , I am back to my training schedule in preparation for NYC Marathon.

I ran with my Galloway group and we finished where we started at Central Park on the upper east side. As I sat down on the bench to rest my tired legs and recover my breath, I beheld a strange sight. I saw this white statue of a ballerina that I had not noticed before.

From where I sat, I kept looking at her still pose and was wondering when this statue was installed. I wanted to go closer and take a better look, but my legs were aching and sitting on the bench felt very good. I kept looking at the statue for what seemed like an eternity and then she gracefully moved to strike another pose! That’s when my curiosity got the better of me and I went closer and took the above picture. There was a bucket which can be partially seen on the left corner bottom. It said ‘please donate a dollar if you wish to take a picture’. We did donate. I was amazed by her stillness and grace.

I was happy to complete 23 miles though I was aching and sore all over.

My next goal – Newport Liberty Half Marathon on Sept. 26th.

Countdown to NYC Marathon

 

I had written an earlier post mentioning how lucky I was to have made it to the 2010 NYC Marathon lottery. With just 3 months to go before the marathon, I want to keep my focus on the race and not get emotionally sidetracked by other issues. This marathon is special. For the first time, world record holder Haile Gebrselassie (2h:03m:59secs) is running this race. I may never get to see him during the race, but to be one amongst the participants is a pride in itself.

I ran 6.5 miles this morning and have also lost a bit of weight. I feel upbeat and hope to keep my training on track. Two of my running buddies with whom I initially started running in the 2008 Asha Marathon program are also running the NYC for the first time. I am excited and look forward to their company and running with them at the event.

Please wish me luck as I prepare for the marathon. Thanks!